In 1984, Ford introduced the Ford Tempo and its Mercurized twin, the Topaz, for the 1984 model year. After over three million cars produced, the Tempaz was replaced by the Mondeo-based Contour/Mystique. However, these cars are now largely forgotten and difficult to find in junkyards. This article will take a closer look at a final-year Tempo found in very nice condition.
The Interior of the Tempo
One of the striking features of this final-year Tempo is its interior, which is in surprisingly good condition. While it may not be as perfect as the interior of a discarded 1987 Mazda 323, it still outshines many modern economy cars. The condition of the interior suggests that this Tempo was well taken care of by its previous owner.
Mileage and History of the Tempo
Since Ford was still using five-digit odometers in many of its cars in 1994, the actual final mileage of this Tempo is unknown. However, with its excellent condition, it is plausible that the mileage is close to 57,220. The car started its career at Phil Long Ford in Denver, which is still in operation today, adding an interesting historical element to this vehicle.
Details and Pricing
This Tempo is a base-grade GL model with a three-speed automatic transmission, which had an MSRP of $11,270 in 1994. Adjusted for inflation, this would be about $24,247 in 2024 dollars. For the two-door version with a five-speed manual transmission, the list price was $9,465 in 1994, equivalent to $20,363 today. The engine is a 2.3-liter HSC pushrod four-cylinder, producing 96 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque.
Features and Options
This Tempo comes equipped with air conditioning and an AM/FM radio, along with grey cloth upholstery, suggesting it may have been used in a fleet. The option of a Taurus-derived Vulcan 3.0-liter V6 engine was available in later models, offering more power and performance. Overall, the Tempo offered a decent range of features for its time.
The Legacy of the Tempo
The Tempo/Topaz was based on an enlarged Escort chassis and offered a replacement for the Fox-platform Fairmont/Zephyr. However, with very few of these cars remaining on the road today, the Tempo’s legacy has largely been forgotten. This final-year Tempo is a rare find, offering a glimpse into the past of American automotive history.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ford Tempo was a popular car during its time, with millions produced over a span of ten years. However, as time has passed, these cars have become increasingly rare, making finding a well-preserved example like this final-year Tempo a special discovery. This article has highlighted the interior, history, pricing, features, and legacy of the Tempo, offering a comprehensive look at this forgotten gem in the automotive world.