Ford Del Rey
The 'Magic Carpet' of Brazil: A symbol of 1980s executive luxury.
- Power
- 73 bhp
- Top speed
- 92 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$9k
About the Ford Del Rey
Developed by Ford do Brasil to replace the aging Galaxie Landau during the oil crisis, the Del Rey was a premium evolution of the Corcel II platform. The Ghia trim, introduced in 1985, represented the pinnacle of Brazilian luxury, featuring a digital ceiling clock, power windows, and plush velvet upholstery. While its 1.6-litre CHT engine offered modest performance, the car was renowned for its exceptionally soft suspension, earning it the nickname 'Tapete Mágico' (Magic Carpet). It remains a significant cultural icon in South America, representing the executive standard of its era before the market opened to imports.
Ford Del Rey specs
The Ford Del Rey produces 73 bhp (54 kW) and 126 Nm (93 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 92 mph (148 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Del Rey |
| Trim | 1.6 Ghia |
| Years | 1981–1991 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Brazil |
| Engine | 1.6-litre CHT inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,555 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 73 bhp (54 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 126 Nm (93 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,600 rpm |
| Top speed | 92 mph (148 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,092 kg (2,407 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 67 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Del Rey worth?
A typical Ford Del Rey is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $9,000 (about £2,600 – £6,700).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Del Rey rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Del Rey is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Del Rey fun facts
- The Del Rey was the first Brazilian-made car to feature a digital clock, which was mounted on the ceiling next to the rearview mirror.
- Its 'Magic Carpet' nickname came from a suspension so soft that it was said to make Brazil's uneven roads feel completely smooth.
- The 1.6 CHT engine was actually a heavily modified version of the Renault Cléon-Fonte engine, optimized for high turbulence and fuel efficiency.
