Original Intent:
Targeted the executive and luxury car market segment in Europe, aiming to rival established German manufacturers.
Key Competitors 1986:
BMW 5 Series (E28), Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100 (C3)
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic styling, spacious interior, advanced (for its time) features, comfortable ride.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair information for owners and independent mechanics, enabling comprehensive self-service and cost savings.
Engine Management:
Engine mechanical, engine performance tuning, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering
Brakes:
Front brakes, rear brakes, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, starter, alternator, battery
Body Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, chassis frame
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, service schedules
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step repair and overhaul procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components
Refurbishment Restoration:
Guidance applicable to refurbishment and restoration projects, including disassembly and reassembly
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Options 1986:
2.0L I4 (CVH, N-Series), 2.3L I4 (O-Series), 2.8L V6 (Cologne) - Specific engine options covered will depend on the exact manual version.
Horsepower Range 1986:
Approx. 115 hp (2.0L) to 150 hp (2.8L V6) - exact figures vary by engine variant and market.
Torque Range 1986:
Approx. 170 Nm (2.0L) to 230 Nm (2.8L V6) - exact figures vary by engine variant and market.
Injection Systems Covered:
Bosch LE-Jetronic, Bosch D-Jetronic (early models), possibly Weber carburetors on base models (less common for Scorpio).
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (various Ford EEC-IV systems)
Spark Plug Recommendation:
Specific recommendations for different engine variants (e.g., Motorcraft AGSP series, Champion, NGK) will be detailed.
Manual Transmission:
Likely a 5-speed manual (e.g., Ford MT75 or earlier IB5/IB7 variants for some engines).
Automatic Transmission:
Optional 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Ford C3, C5).
Fluid Type Automatic:
Likely Ford ESW-M2C33-F or ESW-M2C77-A specification ATF.
Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 rated gear oil, with specific viscosity recommendations (e.g., 75W-90).
Body Styles:
Hatchback (5-door), Saloon/Sedan (4-door), Estate/Wagon ( Turnier - introduced later in Mk1 production, less likely for a 1986 manual).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2780 mm (109.4 inches)
Length:
Approximately 4600-4650 mm (181-183 inches)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and equipment, typically 1300-1500 kg (2866-3307 lbs).
Crash Test History:
Limited publicly available crash test data for the 1986 model from official bodies like Euro NCAP (which didn't exist in its current form). Ford's internal testing and compliance with European safety standards of the era would be covered.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or as an option.
Seat Belts:
Mandatory front seat belts, optional rear seat belts.
Headrests:
Integral or adjustable front and rear headrests.
Audio System:
Factory fitted Ford radio/cassette players, often with premium speaker options.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system available on some models.
Climate Control:
Optional climate control or air conditioning system.
Early Integration:
Limited by modern standards; focus on basic electrical systems and analog controls.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 km (6,250 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 20,000-40,000 km (12,500-25,000 miles), or as per manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Specification:
Likely API SF/SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30, depending on climate. Specific Ford WSS-M2C specifications are critical.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Ford specification might be ESE-M97B44-A.
Common Electrical:
Wiring harness degradation, especially in the engine bay, due to age; issues with central locking and window regulators.
Common Mechanical:
Rear suspension bushes wear, exhaust system corrosion, potential for head gasket issues on higher mileage engines.
Body Rust:
Prone to rust, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the tailgate/boot area, common for vehicles of this era.
Ford Europe Context:
Ford of Europe's strategy to create a premium, technologically advanced European car to compete directly with German rivals.
Design Inspiration:
Styled by Patrick Le Quément, influenced by aerodynamic principles and a desire for a distinctive European Ford design language.
Platform Sharing:
While unique, it shared powertrain and some suspension components with other Ford models of the era.
Manufacturing Plant:
Genk, Belgium
Production Years Mk1:
1984-1994
