Ford: Why the neglect? (2009, minivans, fuel, engine)

[dkf747]

Originally Posted by NJGOAT

Size classifications are based on the interior dimensions (cubic feet) of the car, not how large it is on the outside.

By the current standards, the Taurus is a full sized vehicle, but just barely at 122 cubic feet. The Fusion by comparison is just under 117. The Crown Victoria by comparison has 128. Please bear in mind they count luggage/trunk space and passenger space together.

The current Impala is a full size with 122, but it has about the same passenger space as a Fusion. The current Malibu is a mid sized with 113.

The current Camry is 116 making it a midsize. The current Accord actually ticks over into full size at 122.

Below is the EPA chart and how they are defined.

Two-Seaters
Any (cars designed to seat only two adults)

Sedans
Minicompact < 85
Subcompact 85 - 99
Compact 100 - 109
Mid-Size 110 - 119
Large 120 or more

Station Wagons
Small <130
Mid-Size 130 - 159
Large 160 or more

Trucks and SUV's are rated based on GVWR.

How much interior space did a, let's see, 1974 Ford LTD have? From my memory it had a heck of a lot more interior space then a Taurus does. Just curious for comparisons sake.

[hoffdano]

Originally Posted by asubram3

Which platforms are you talking about here? The Mustang one? Maybe a hot mid-size sedan on that platform might work?

The only other RWD platforms Ford have are the F-series truck/ Expedition ones, right (since the Ranger/ old Explorer are defunct)?

The Lincoln LS chassis could be brought back.

And yes - I think the Mustang platform could be used again in a different package.

[hoffdano]

Originally Posted by 12GO

The Crown Vic is the same size as my '76 4door LeMans. It's a MID SIZE car. So I guess the answer should be the current Crown Vic has been a mid size car since the 70's. Just because car companies have downsized vehicles and kept calling them larger than they really are along with idiots in the epa and transportation dept., doesn't mean all of us has fell for the miss calling of the sizes of cars.

How many people in America do you think really want to buy a 19 ft. long car?

I know you do. And a few other C-D posters here. But who else?

[gymbuff]

I would love to see the Thunderbird come back. It can be a coupe or a 4 door, just not a convertible 2 seaters please.

[Drover]

Wouldn't a 4-door Tbird be a little sacrilege?

[JR_C]

Originally Posted by Drover

Wouldn't a 4-door Tbird be a little sacrilege?

Nah, there were 4-door Tbirds back in the late 60's/early 70's.
http://www.lovefords.org/70bic/1970_ford_tbird_001.jpg (broken link)

[motormaker]

^^ True, but it doesn't make it right.

1967 Ford Thunderbird Production Numbers

[Big Ryde]

I love Ford's current line-up. From the Mustang on down. It's just Lincoln that I got a problem with! Rebadged Fords at higher prices. There cross town rivals have cars to be excited about. Big, Mean, Fast rear wheel drive that got Pop in the accelerator. Lincoln just Blaiii!!!!

[Drover]

Originally Posted by JR_C

Nah, there were 4-door Tbirds back in the late 60's/early 70's.

Yowza. That picture only confirms my suspicion that it is, in fact, sacrilege.

[motormaker]

I'm glad we agree for once.