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    by Published on 03-23-2014 02:10 PM
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    In 1979, the “New Breed” of Mustang was big news. European styling and handling characteristics had been paired with an American legend. Ford capitalized on the renewed interest in the Mustang brand by having the 1979 Mustang pace the Indianapolis 500 that year. The factory Pace Car replicas that were born from this exhibition are still among the most popular and well-known Foxes some 35 years later. An article that has just been added to our collection goes over in great detail not the production Pace Car Mustangs, but the specific parts that went into the drivetrain build-up of the Roush-prepped cars tapped for actual race duty and some of the requirements these modifications satisfied.
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    by Published on 03-08-2014 04:15 PM
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    It's well known that the early 80s saw American auto manufacturers aiming not so much for one another, but rather wanting to be compared to the increasingly popular and more sophisticated European marques. Ford Motor Company's Euro-inspired campaigns began in the 70s with its attempts to bring over the Ford Capri, and was solidified by the launch of the Fox platform in 1978. This carried over to seemingly every new Fox-based model. The design of the all new 1984 Lincoln Mark VII was made not only with the traditional Lincoln buyer in mind, but with an eye on the likes of Mercedes.

    This particular article, from the August, 1983 Motor Trend issue, discusses the intentions, successes and shortcomings of the Mark VII LSC. ...
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    by Published on 03-02-2014 04:07 PM



    An interesting read from the June, 1978 Popular Mechanics issue gives us a look at the thoughts of the day regarding the then-new Ford Fairmont and Mercury Zephyr pair. These first Fox platform cars were rear-wheel drive, compact class replacements for the phased-out Ford Maverick and Mercury Comet.

    Attractive looks and economical transportation were the driving force behind owners choosing an F/Z car when new. Fuel consumption was a significant issue for drivers in the late 70s and though many purchased a Fairmont or Zephyr due to high MPG expectations, it was also the most disappointing part of post-purchase reality. The generous EPA ratings did not match what drivers were experiencing and it was reflected in this poll.

    Strangely, despite being nearly identical, Zephyr owners were far more likely to give stellar marks to their particular model versus more critical Ford owners. Perhaps the perception of Mercury being a more premium brand influenced this curious reaction.

    Take a look at the data gathered by Popular Mechanics which covered over 1 million miles driven here:

    PM OWNERS REPORT: FORD FAIRMONT AND MERCURY ZEPHYR


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