1983 Ford Orion I (AFD) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Ford Orion I (AFD) sedan features a wheelbase of approximately 2,528 mm (99.5 inches). This wheelbase length strikes a solid compromise between stability and interior space, allowing adequate legroom for passengers while maintaining responsive handling. The ground clearance was typical for a compact sedan of its era, measuring around 150 mm (5.9 inches). This clearance makes the car practical for everyday road conditions, providing enough height to clear speed bumps and light obstacles without compromising driving dynamics or stability.

The curb weight of the Ford Orion I (AFD) falls roughly between 900 kg to 1,000 kg (1,984 to 2,205 lbs), depending on the specific trim and equipment level. This relatively lightweight construction contributed to the car's fuel efficiency and nimble handling characteristics. The modest weight, combined with the compact dimensions, allowed the Orion I to deliver an engaging driving experience in the small family car segment while making it economical to run and easy to park.

While precise interior volume figures for the Ford Orion I (AFD) are not widely documented, the sedan's design was engineered for comfort and practicality. The cabin comfortably accommodated four to five passengers, with sufficient headroom and legroom characteristic of compact sedans of the early 1980s. The trunk space offered decent cargo capacity, typically around 370 liters (13.1 cubic feet), providing ample storage for daily use, groceries, or luggage for small families. The sedan configuration also gave the Orion an advantage over hatchback competitors in terms of dedicated trunk space.

Yes, the Ford Orion I (AFD) fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. Considering its length of approximately 4,294 mm (169.1 inches) and width of about 1,646 mm (64.8 inches), it occupies less space than many modern sedans and SUVs. Typical garages in Europe and North America vary but usually range around 5,000 mm (196.9 inches) in length and 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) in width, providing sufficient room for closing doors and movement around the vehicle after parking. Therefore, owners should have no issue storing the Orion I securely indoors.

The Ford Orion I (AFD) is essentially a saloon (sedan) version of the Ford Escort Mark III, sharing many mechanical components and overall platform dimensions. However, the Orion I offers slightly more rear passenger comfort due to its separate trunk design compared to the hatchback form of the Escort. Although the Escort Mk3 hatchback and the Orion I are close in length and width, the sedan's distinct styling and longer rear end give it a more traditional three-box silhouette. Compared to the previous Escort Mark II, the Orion I was generally more aerodynamic and slightly larger in overall length and width, reflecting evolving design trends and customer preferences in the early 1980s.

In the early 1980s compact sedan segment, the Ford Orion I (AFD) held its own against competitors like the Volkswagen Jetta Mk1, Opel Ascona/Astra, and Peugeot 305. Its length of about 4,294 mm (169.1 inches) was comparable to the Jetta Mk1, which measured around 4,250 mm (167.3 inches). Width-wise, it was slightly narrower than many rivals but maintained adequate interior comfort. The Orion I's balance between compact size and interior space made it practical for urban driving and family use, fitting neatly in the crowded European small car category where efficient space utilization was prized. It offered an alternative to crossover and hatchback models for buyers preferring traditional sedan styling.

The Ford Orion I (AFD) is a compact sedan produced from 1983 to 1986. Unlike the contemporaneous Ford Escort, which was primarily offered as a hatchback, the Orion featured a traditional three-box saloon (sedan) body style with a distinct trunk. This made it appealing to buyers looking for a compact car with a conventional sedan silhouette, offering clearer separation of passenger and cargo areas. The sedan body type was popular in Europe during that period, balancing stylish design with practicality and comfort for small families or commuters.

The Ford Orion I came with a range of petrol engine options during its production from 1983 to 1986. Engines ranged mainly from 1.1-litre to 1.6-litre inline-four units, with power outputs varying roughly between 55 to 90 horsepower depending on the specific model and market. The car was designed as an economical and practical compact sedan, prioritizing fuel efficiency and reliable performance over outright speed. Performance was adequate for daily commuting, with smooth handling benefits inherited from its Escort platform. Some sportier trims, like the Orion Ghia, offered enhanced features and tuning for a slightly more spirited drive.

The Ford Orion I was known for being economical, a major selling point in the 1980s compact car market. Fuel consumption varied depending on engine size and driving conditions but typically averaged around 7 to 8 liters per 100 km (approximately 29 to 33 miles per gallon US). The smaller 1.1-liter engines offered the best economy, well-suited for city and light suburban driving where fuel efficiency mattered most. Larger 1.6-liter engines consumed more fuel but improved performance. Overall, the Orion I balanced cost-effective motoring with sufficient driving dynamics, appealing to budget-conscious buyers during its production years.