Vehicle Class:
Subcompact hatchback, positioned as an economical and practical city car.
Competitors 1991:
Hyundai Excel, Chevrolet Sprint/Geo Metro, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla (lower trims).
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, fuel efficiency, and basic functionality.
Manual Benefit:
Provides cost-effective vehicle maintenance and repair, empowering owners to understand and service their vehicle.
Engine System:
Detailed coverage including disassembly, assembly, and troubleshooting of the engine.
Engine Performance:
Diagnosis and tuning for optimal engine performance.
Brake System:
Service and repair procedures for all brake components, including hydraulic systems and linings.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting, and repair for all electrical components and circuits.
HVAC System:
Repair and servicing of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.
Steering System:
Service and repair of the steering mechanism and components.
Suspension System:
Detailed instructions for suspension component maintenance, alignment, and repair.
Transmission System:
Coverage for both manual and automatic transmission servicing and repair (specific transmission type not detailed but implied by 'All styles covered').
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance tasks and schedules.
Accessories Safety:
Information related to accessories and safety equipment.
General Information:
Overview, vehicle identification, and general service guidelines.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of the vehicle's components.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic techniques for various systems.
Maintenance Instructions:
Guidance on routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups.
Depth Of Coverage:
Complete factory level detail, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Visual Aids:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations to support repair and service procedures.
Engine Type 1991:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated gasoline engine.
Engine Displacement 1991:
1.3L (1343 cc)
Engine Code 1991:
B3 (shared with Mazda 323/Familia)
Horsepower 1991:
Approximately 63-68 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm (specifications vary slightly by market/configuration).
Torque 1991:
Approximately 71-73 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm (specifications vary slightly by market/configuration).
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate clutch.
Length 1991:
Approximately 3,760 mm (148.0 inches)
Width 1991:
Approximately 1,600 mm (63.0 inches)
Height 1991:
Approximately 1,360 mm (53.5 inches)
Wheelbase 1991:
Approximately 2,305 mm (90.7 inches)
Curb Weight 1991:
Approximately 810-860 kg (1785-1895 lbs), depending on transmission and trim.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with optional cassette player. Factory speaker count typically 2 or 4.
Driver Assistance Features:
None (No electronic driver aids like ABS, traction control, or airbags were standard or commonly available for this model year).
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommend checking at every oil change, replace as needed, typically every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), depending on spark plug type used (copper vs. platinum).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific temperature ranges).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Ford coolant type might apply (consult manual).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (for 5-speed manual transmission).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent.
Common Issue 1:
Ignition system components (coil packs, spark plug wires) can degrade over time, leading to misfires.
Common Issue 2:
Rust and corrosion, especially in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around windows, due to age and environmental exposure.
Common Issue 3:
Electrical gremlins, particularly with power windows, locks, and dashboard illumination, can occur with age.
Common Issue 4:
Suspension bushings and ball joints wear out, leading to clunks, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
Common Issue 5:
Cooling system components (hoses, thermostat, water pump) can leak or fail with age.
Ford Global Strategy:
Ford's strategy to offer a low-cost, globally sourced small car, often leveraging Mazda platforms.
Development Basis:
Based on the Mazda DV platform, shared with the Mazda 121 and Mazda 323/Familia.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea by Kia Motors under license for Ford, and in Spain for European markets.
Model Lifespan:
First generation produced from 1987 (Japan) / 1990 (Global) to 1997.