Category:
Subcompact/Economy Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, city dwellers
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Sprint, Hyundai Excel, Yugo Sana, Honda Civic (early generations)
Design Philosophy:
Simple, efficient, and affordable transportation
Origin:
Based on Mazda's DA platform, manufactured by Kia for Ford in many markets
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (if applicable), clutch, drive axles
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, front and rear brakes, parking brake
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (Torsion beam or independent), steering system
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, body hardware
Chassis:
Frame, body structure, exhaust system
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptoms, and causes
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and other major component overhauls
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I if applicable), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Professional Technician Level, also suitable for advanced DIY mechanics
Engine Type:
Inline-4, SOHC
Displacement:
1.3L (1342cc)
Bore X Stroke:
71.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Horsepower:
63-65 hp @ 5500 rpm (varies slightly by year and emission standards)
Torque:
71-74 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (varies slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (early models), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) (later models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributor-based electronic ignition
Cooling Medium:
Water-cooled
Oil Capacity:
3.2 liters (3.4 US quarts) with filter
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate (manual transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 recommended)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercon (Ford specification) or Dexron II/III compatible (refer to specific model year for precise fluid type)
Length:
Approx. 3750 mm (147.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1600 mm (63.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1375 mm (54.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2320 mm (91.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 830-900 kg (1830-1980 lbs) depending on trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1300 kg (2866 lbs)
NHTSA Ratings:
Likely achieved 3-4 star ratings in frontal impacts (typical for the era, specific ratings may vary)
Braking System:
Front disc, Rear drum brakes
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional on higher trims or later models
Airbags:
Driver airbag optional or standard on later models; passenger airbag generally not available
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia reel seatbelts, rear lap belts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player
Instrumentation:
Speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel gauge, temperature gauge, odometer, warning lights
Features:
Minimal; primarily focused on basic functionality, no advanced electronic driver aids
Features:
N/A (No factory Bluetooth, USB, or advanced connectivity)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on type
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as specified in the manual
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Common Problems:
Starter motor issues, alternator problems, carburetor clogging (on carbureted models), exhaust system rust, minor electrical gremlins, worn suspension components (bushings, ball joints)
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check and clean battery terminals, ensure proper ignition timing, keep fuel system clean, inspect for coolant leaks
Ford Strategy:
Entry-level, fuel-efficient vehicle for North American and global markets
First Generation:
1988 (North America), based on the Japanese Mazda 121 (DA chassis)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (Kia), also Japan (Mazda)
Production Years:
1988-1997 (Globally, though the manual covers 1988-1993 specifically)
