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Ford Cars and Trucks For 2001 |
By Carey Russ |
Ford's passenger car and minivan lineup only seems quiet for 2001. The next-generation Thunderbird, a 2002 model, will spice it up considerably when it debuts next Summer. The first new T-Birds were offered through the Neiman-Marcus catalog, and sold out in just over two hours.
Crown Victoria
One of the last of the old-style front-engine, rear-wheel drive full-size cars, the Crown Victoria continues to please traditionalists who like a spacious interior in a car, not a sport-utility. Its 4.6-liter V8 has more power this year, 220 horsepower standard or 235 with dual exhausts. Optional power-adjustable pedals and the standard "Personal Safety System" are new for 2001.
Windstar
The Windstar minivan has freshened styling this year, and the "Personal Safety System" and a low tire-pressure warning system are standard equipment. The "AutoVision" Family Entertainment System video system is available, and the "AdvanceTrac" interactive vehicle dynamics system will be offered midway through the year.
Focus
To say that the Focus has been successful is true understatement. It's the best-selling car in the world, according to Ford. It's even doing very well in the U.S., bastion of large cars and SUVs. The youth-oriented lineup includes sedans, wagons, and the sporty ZX3 hatchback. The "AdvanceTrac" interactive vehicle dynamics system is offered for the ZX3 and ZTS sport sedan.
Mustang
The V8-powered Mustang GT has new hood and side scoops to differentiate it from the V6-powered base-level model. All Mustangs have interior enhancements, and the number of possible order combinations has been reduced from 2600 to 50.
Taurus
Restyled last year, the Taurus has a larger fuel tank and a variety of enhanced safety and security features for 2001.
Ford Cars Specifications 2001 Crown Victoria ENGINE 4.6-liter V8 Peak horsepower: 220 @ 4750 rpm, 325 hp with dual exhaust Peak torque, lb-ft: 265 @ 4000 rpm, 275 with dual exhaust DRIVE TRAIN Front-engine, rear-wheel drive 4 - speed automatic CHASSIS & SUSPENSION Body-frame construction Front suspension: independent short-and-long arm Rear suspension: solid axle with Watt's linkage BRAKES 4-wheel antilock disc EPA ESTIMATED FUEL ECONOMY City / Highway: 18/25 Fuel tank: 19.0 gallons
