1986 Ford Orion II (AFF) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Ford Orion II (AFF) ranges roughly between 1,000 kg to 1,080 kg (2,205 to 2,380 lbs), depending on the trim and equipment levels. This relatively lightweight contributes positively to its handling characteristics, providing nimble cornering and responsiveness typical of small sedans. The lighter weight also helps improve fuel efficiency, which was an important consideration during the car's production era. The chassis and suspension were designed to balance comfort with sporty handling, thus the modest weight plays a key role in the vehicle's dynamic behavior.

The Ford Orion II offers a practical interior with sufficient legroom and headroom for a compact sedan of its time. Front passengers typically enjoy spacious seating with adequate legroom and headroom, thanks to the efficient packaging of the cabin space. Rear passenger room is more modest but still comfortable enough for average-sized adults during short to medium trips. The roofline is designed to maximize headroom without compromising the car’s sleek profile, contributing to a balanced and ergonomic interior layout. Overall, the cabin prioritizes passenger comfort and usability.

Yes, the Ford Orion II generally fits comfortably into a standard residential garage, which typically measures about 2,400 mm to 2,700 mm (94.5 to 106 inches) in width and around 4,800 mm (189 inches) in length. Given the car’s compact exterior dimensions—4,210 mm (165.7 inches) in length and 1,652 mm (65 inches) in width—it occupies less footprint than many modern sedans and SUVs. This makes it convenient for parking in most typical garages, including those found in suburban homes and small apartment complexes. Its moderate height of 1,360 mm (53.5 inches) also ensures easy clearance.

Compared to the first-generation Ford Orion, the Orion II features slight increases in overall dimensions, reflecting the automotive trends of the mid-1980s toward slightly larger passenger vehicles for enhanced comfort. The length grew modestly to about 4,210 mm (165.7 inches) from approximately 4,050 mm (159.4 inches) in the original model, increasing interior space notably. Width and height remained similar but were refined in their proportions to improve aerodynamics and cabin comfort. This subtle size bump allowed the Orion II to carry more equipment and offer a roomier interior while retaining the compact and accessible character of its predecessor.

The Ford Orion II was competitively sized among other compact sedans of the mid to late 1980s. Its length of 4,210 mm (165.7 inches) and width of 1,652 mm (65 inches) were very similar to contemporaries like the Volkswagen Jetta Mk2 and the Opel Kadett sedan versions. It was slightly longer than some competitors, which gave it an edge in passenger space and trunk capacity, yet small enough to remain nimble in urban environments. The design struck a good balance between compactness and interior comfort, positioning it well in markets where both handling and roominess were valued.

The Ford Orion II offers a practical trunk space for its segment, with a cargo capacity of approximately 420 liters (approximately 14.8 cubic feet). This volume provides ample room for groceries, luggage, or everyday items, suitable for families and commuters alike. The trunk opening is designed to provide easy access, and the rear seats can often be folded down (depending on the variant) to expand cargo space for larger items. This capacity is generally slightly better than some of its direct competitors from the same era, making the Orion II a practical choice for those needing a sensible sedan for multi-purpose use.

The Ford Orion II was essentially the sedan counterpart to the well-known Ford Escort hatchback but featured a distinctive sedan body style with a traditional three-box design. While it shared the same platform and many mechanical parts with the Escort, the Orion II’s exterior measured slightly longer due to the inclusion of a dedicated boot (trunk) section, at 4,210 mm (165.7 inches), compared to the shorter Escort hatchback, which typically measured around 4,000 mm (157 inches). Design-wise, the Orion II had sharper rear styling with a more formal sedan appearance, making it appealing for buyers seeking a more traditional saloon look without moving up to larger vehicle classes.

The Ford Orion II was offered with a range of petrol engines during its production from 1985 to 1990. Typical engine options included 1.3-liter, 1.6-liter, and occasionally a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine. These engines were designed for economy and adequate power for everyday driving. The smaller engines focused on fuel efficiency, with outputs ranging from approximately 60 to 90 horsepower depending on the specific variant and market. These engines were paired with either a 4 or 5-speed manual transmission, and in some markets, a 3-speed automatic option was also available. The combination made the Orion II a versatile and economical car suited to urban and suburban use.

The Ford Orion II was designed as a conventional four-door sedan with a seating capacity for five occupants—two in the front and three in the rear. The interior layout featured typical compact sedan ergonomics, with two individual front seats and a rear bench seat. The bench seat comfortably fits three passengers but is most comfortable for two adults with a third occupant fitting more snugly in the middle position. The cabin was equipped with basic comfort features, emphasizing functionality and ease of use. The straightforward interior design focused on delivering a balanced environment, adequate for family use, commuting, and general driving needs.