Ford’s Merkur brand, consisting of the XR4Ti and the Scorpio, was a short-lived North American marque in the late 20th century, existing from 1985 to 1989. The Scorpio model is particularly rare today, and one such ’89 model was discovered in a car graveyard in Carson City, Nevada. This article explores the history and features of this unique vehicle, shedding light on its place in American automotive history.
Ford’s foray into European cars in North America began with models like the Prefects, Consuls, Zephyrs, Anglias, Cortinas, Capris, and Fiestas brought over from Europe in previous decades. However, it wasn’t until the emergence of Merkur in the 1980s that Ford introduced actual Euro-market machines to the American market. The brand was an attempt to capitalize on the growing popularity of sporty European cars among American consumers.
The first model to arrive under the Merkur brand was the XR4Ti, based on the Ford Sierra XR4i and powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter straight-four engine. This was followed by the Scorpio in 1988, which was based on the Sierra and featured a 2.9-liter Cologne pushrod V6 engine. Despite being a rear-wheel-drive European sedan, the Scorpio did not attract many American buyers and was discontinued after the 1989 model year.
The article delves into the specifications and features of the Merkur Scorpio, including its pricing compared to other European sedans in the market at the time. With a five-speed manual as standard and an optional four-speed automatic transmission, the Scorpio offered a comfortable and luxurious driving experience. The car’s unique history, including its connection to racing legend Jackie Stewart and its European roots, adds to its allure as a collectible vehicle.
Overall, the Ford Merkur Scorpio represents a significant chapter in the history of American automotive imports, showcasing Ford’s attempt to bring European styling and performance to the North American market. Despite its short-lived production run, the Scorpio remains a fascinating and rare find for enthusiasts of unique and unconventional vehicles.