| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1984 |
| Production Years: | 1983 - 1985 discontinued in 1985 |
The Ford Escort III Cabrio, produced between 1983 and 1985, represents a stylish and classic approach to compact convertibles from the mid-1980s. Known by its internal code ALD, this cabriolet variant of the popular Escort III line combines the practical dimensions and handling of a compact car with the open-top driving experience. The Escort III generation itself marked a continuation of Ford's success in the small family car segment, and the cabriolet version allowed enthusiasts to enjoy leisure driving with the wind in their hair. As a Cabriolet, the Escort III ALD featured a soft top roof that could be retracted, enhancing its appeal during warmer months. Dimensionally, the Escort III Cabrio maintained the compact footprint typical of the Escort lineage, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments while still providing a comfortable cabin experience. Its lightweight construction contributed to nimble driving dynamics and responsive handling. Although specific dimensions of the Escort III Cabrio vary slightly depending on market and trim, it generally measured around 4 meters (approximately 13.1 feet) in length, with a width near 1.65 meters (5.4 feet), making it suitably sized for the compact convertible class of its time. The vehicle's height was modest, allowing a low center of gravity that aided driving stability. The Escort III Cabrio attracted drivers looking for a blend of practicality, style, and open-air enjoyment without stepping into the larger and more expensive convertible markets. Its production span of just a few years between 1983 and 1985 adds to its appeal as a classic collectible today. Overall, the Ford Escort III Cabriolet is a notable representation of 1980s European compact convertibles, offering a combination of efficiency, stylish design, and enjoyable driving experiences.
Discover the standout features that make the 1984 Ford Escort III Cabrio a leader in its class
Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.
The Ford Escort III Cabrio (ALD), produced from 1983 to 1985, features a compact and sporty design typical of early 1980s cabriolets. Its length measures approximately 4,123 mm (162.3 inches), making it agile in city driving and parking. The width is around 1,630 mm (64.2 inches), which contributes to a nimble and narrow footprint, easing maneuverability. Height is about 1,340 mm (52.8 inches), reflecting the lowered structure common in convertible cars for a sleek profile. These dimensions sync well with the vehicle’s lightweight and sporty character.
The Ford Escort III Cabrio (ALD) maintains a similar width to its hardtop counterparts, roughly 1,630 mm (64.2 inches), preserving stability on the road despite its convertible design. However, the cabriolet's height is slightly lower at approximately 1,340 mm (52.8 inches) due to the lack of a fixed roof structure, lending it a sportier stance. This reduction in height enhances the aerodynamic profile but may slightly affect headroom, standard for convertibles of this era.
The wheelbase of the Ford Escort III Cabrio is about 2,500 mm (98.4 inches), giving it a balanced mix of stability and agility. A wheelbase of this length in a compact cabriolet helps ensure responsive steering and stable cornering, which is essential for a fun driving experience in such sporty vehicles. This dimension also impacts ride comfort, providing a smooth drive without excessive bumpiness common to very short wheelbases.
Yes, the Ford Escort III Cabrio’s compact dimensions allow it to fit comfortably in a standard residential garage. With a length of approximately 4,123 mm (162.3 inches) and a width of around 1,630 mm (64.2 inches), it is smaller than many modern sedans and SUVs, making garage storage and tight parking spaces manageable. Its relatively low height of 1,340 mm (52.8 inches) means there are no clearance issues for standard garage door heights.
The Ford Escort III Cabrio is lightweight, typically around 930 to 1,000 kg (2050 to 2205 lbs) depending on the specific equipment and engine variant. This low weight positively impacts its acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency, making it nimble and economical for its time. The reduced mass aids in quicker responses during steering and braking, a benefit for sporty driving. Additionally, lighter vehicles generally consume less fuel, contributing to cost savings over time.
As a compact two-door convertible, the Ford Escort III Cabrio prioritizes driver and front passenger comfort, with rear passenger space being relatively limited due to the cabriolet's design constraints. Rear seats can accommodate smaller passengers or can be used for occasional seating. Luggage space is also restricted because of the folding soft top mechanism taking up trunk room. Typically, this car suits drivers who prioritize style and driving experience over large passenger capacity or cargo.
Compared to the Ford Escort II Cabrio, the Escort III Cabrio introduced in 1983 displayed a more modern and aerodynamic design with slightly refined dimensions. While both models share a compact footprint, the Escort III generally offered a slightly longer length and a more angular styling trend typical of the early '80s. The newer generation also improved structural rigidity and driving dynamics, making it a more engaging car to drive despite being similar in size to its predecessor.
In comparison to contemporaries such as the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet or the Peugeot 205 Cabriolet, the Ford Escort III Cabrio holds its own as a relatively compact offering with a balanced footprint. Its length of around 4,123 mm (162.3 inches) is comparable to the Golf Cabriolet, while its narrower width at 1,630 mm (64.2 inches) aligns with the dimensions typical of lightweight European convertibles. Its design emphasized sportiness and practicality, making it competitive in the compact convertible market of the era.
The Escort III Cabrio features a manually operated soft top roof that folds back to create an open-air driving experience. This design, common in early 1980s convertibles, means headroom is slightly compromised when the roof is up compared to hardtops due to the roof’s lining and mechanical components. When the top is down, the folded roof occupies some rear trunk space, reducing luggage capacity. However, this setup provides the iconic open-air feeling and classic convertible aesthetic.
The Escort III Cabrio balances sporty driving with practical usability for its class, though its convertible nature limits some practicality factors. Its compact dimensions – approximately 4,123 mm in length and 1,630 mm in width – make it easy to maneuver and park. Comfort is enhanced by a well-designed cabin focused on the front seats, but rear passengers and cargo space are limited due to the roof mechanism and compact layout. The car’s light weight boosts performance but may lead to a firmer ride. Overall, it suits drivers seeking style and fun over full-size comfort or extensive passenger capacity.
Ford