FourEyedPride News

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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One of the most popular cars on FourEyedPride, for good reason, was chosen as Ride of the Month in January. Now, you can read about it in the March 2014 issue of Muscle Mustangs & Fast Fords. This immaculately done 84 Mustang T-Top coupe packs a Coyote punch. You can read a bit about it here on FEP.

Show some support to one of our own, go out and grab a copy from your local newsstand if you don't already have a subscription. A note to the editors letting them know how much we enjoy seeing cars like this covered sure wouldn't hurt, either.

Congratulations again to Mark and Jackie on the well-deserved recognition this amazing car is receiving!

The Fox-based Mustang was a radical departure from Mustangs previous as well as Ford's overarching design theme at the time. The influence of European automakers was obvious and prominently mentioned in marketing of both the Ford Mustang and its new cousin, the Mercury Capri. The use of the TRX package which included TRX wheels and their 'unusual in North America' sizing added to the European flair Ford Motor Company wished to emphasize.

As we approach the 50th anniversary of the Ford Mustang, both the Mustang and its Mercury cousins over the generations will be getting closer examination by the automotive press and enthusiasts in general. Evidence of this is starting to be seen online with recent features about the beginning of the Fox-era Mustang and the design process that brought about the 1979 Mustang's final production appearance.

We've had a number of these design images available for viewing in our Library. These images were part of similar retrospectives seen at the 25th anniversary of the Mustang. Click here to see the development of the 1979 Mustang.

And, here are couple of the articles previously mentioned that discuss the genesis of the first Fox Mustang:

http://www.arizonaautoscene.com/archives/27381

http://www.roadandtrack.com/features...e-design-story

Some of the design experiments are sure to make you appreciate the lines of the 79 Mustang even more than you already do.