The Ford LTD, a nameplate that graced American roads for over two decades, represents a significant era in automotive history. From its full-size origins to its later downsizing and eventual replacement, the LTD offered a blend of comfort, affordability, and practicality. Understanding the different generations and model years is crucial for enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone considering purchasing a classic LTD. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information on the best and worst years of the Ford LTD, helping you make an informed decision.
| Model Year(s) | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| 1965-1968 (First Generation) | Luxurious styling, powerful engine options, comfortable ride. Improved build quality compared to earlier Fords. Wide range of available options and configurations. | Rust susceptibility, particularly in northern climates. Fuel economy is poor by modern standards. Drum brakes on earlier models can be underwhelming. |
| 1969-1972 (Second Generation) | Larger size provides even more interior space and a smoother ride. Updated styling with a more modern appearance. Powerful engine options, including the 429 V8. | Continued rust issues. Size makes it less maneuverable in tight spaces. Fuel economy remains a significant drawback. |
| 1973-1978 (Third Generation) | Known for its durability and reliability. A comfortable and quiet ride. Wide availability of parts and relatively simple maintenance. | Significant size and weight impacts fuel economy. Styling is considered less attractive by some. Emissions controls can impact performance. |
| 1979-1982 (Fourth Generation - Downsized) | Improved fuel economy compared to previous generations. More maneuverable due to smaller size. Still offers a comfortable ride. | Some find the downsized styling less appealing. Engine options are less powerful than earlier models. |
| 1983-1986 (LTD Crown Victoria) | Reliable and durable. Body-on-frame construction offers robustness. Ample interior space and a comfortable ride. Strong aftermarket support. | Fuel economy is still not great compared to modern cars. Styling is somewhat dated. Handling is not particularly sporty. |
| 1983-1986 (LTD - Fox Body) | Affordable and fuel-efficient option. Lightweight and relatively nimble handling. Easy to modify and upgrade. | Interior is basic and lacks the luxury of the Crown Victoria. Build quality can be inconsistent. Rust can be a problem. |
Detailed Explanations
1965-1968 (First Generation):
The first generation Ford LTD was introduced as a luxurious trim level of the Ford Galaxie, eventually becoming its own model. These models are prized for their elegant styling, which was inspired by the Lincoln Continental. Engine options were plentiful, ranging from inline-sixes to powerful V8s, offering a good balance of performance and comfort. The ride quality was smooth and comfortable, making them excellent cruisers. However, these early LTDs are prone to rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters. The drum brakes on the earlier models can also feel inadequate by today's standards.
1969-1972 (Second Generation):
The second generation LTD grew in size, offering even more interior space and a smoother ride. The styling was updated with a more modern appearance, featuring cleaner lines and a more prominent grille. The engine options remained powerful, with the 429 cubic inch V8 being a popular choice. The larger size, however, made the car less maneuverable in tight spaces, and fuel economy remained a significant concern. Rust issues persisted, making it crucial to inspect these cars thoroughly before purchase.
1973-1978 (Third Generation):
The third generation LTD is generally regarded as one of the most durable and reliable. While its size and weight contributed to poor fuel economy, these cars were known for their comfortable and quiet ride. Parts are widely available, and maintenance is relatively straightforward, making them a practical choice for classic car enthusiasts. However, the styling is considered less attractive by some, and the emissions controls introduced during this period can negatively impact performance.
1979-1982 (Fourth Generation - Downsized):
In response to the oil crisis, Ford downsized the LTD for the 1979 model year. This resulted in improved fuel economy and better maneuverability. While the downsized styling may not appeal to everyone, these models still offered a comfortable ride. However, the engine options were less powerful than those of earlier LTDs, and some may find the performance lacking.
1983-1986 (LTD Crown Victoria):
The LTD Crown Victoria, built on the traditional body-on-frame construction, is known for its reliability and durability. It offered ample interior space and a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for families and law enforcement. Strong aftermarket support ensures that parts are readily available. However, fuel economy is still not great compared to modern cars, and the styling is somewhat dated. The handling is not particularly sporty, but it is adequate for everyday driving.
1983-1986 (LTD - Fox Body):
Alongside the LTD Crown Victoria, Ford also produced a smaller, more affordable LTD based on the Fox platform. This version offered better fuel economy and more nimble handling. It was also easier to modify and upgrade, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts. However, the interior was basic and lacked the luxury of the Crown Victoria, and build quality could be inconsistent. Rust was also a common problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the most reliable year for the Ford LTD? The 1973-1978 third-generation LTDs are generally considered the most reliable due to their simple design and robust construction. Parts are readily available and maintenance is relatively easy.
Which Ford LTD had the best fuel economy? The 1979-1982 downsized LTDs offered the best fuel economy due to their smaller size and lighter weight. The Fox-body LTD (1983-1986) also provided relatively good fuel efficiency.
What is the most desirable Ford LTD to collect? The 1965-1968 first-generation LTDs, particularly those with rare options or powerful engines, are highly sought after by collectors. Their classic styling and luxurious features make them desirable classics.
Are Ford LTDs prone to rust? Yes, many Ford LTDs, especially those from the 1960s and 1970s, are susceptible to rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Thorough inspection is crucial before purchasing.
What engine options were available for the Ford LTD? The Ford LTD offered a variety of engines throughout its production run, including inline-sixes, small-block V8s (like the 302 and 351), and big-block V8s (like the 429 and 460). The available engines varied depending on the model year.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Ford LTD depends on your individual needs and preferences. The early LTDs (1965-1968) offer classic styling and powerful engines but can be prone to rust. The 1973-1978 models are known for their reliability, while the downsized LTDs (1979-1982) offer improved fuel economy. The LTD Crown Victoria (1983-1986) provides a comfortable and durable option, while the Fox-body LTD offers affordability and nimble handling. By carefully considering these factors, you can find the perfect Ford LTD to suit your needs.