Ford Fairmont
The efficient, clean-sheet pioneer of Ford's legendary Fox platform.
- Power
- 88 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 13.6 s
- Top speed
- 95 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$12k
About the Ford Fairmont
Introduced for the 1978 model year, the Ford Fairmont was a revolutionary departure from the heavy, ornate American compacts of the early 1970s. It was the first vehicle to utilise the Fox platform, a versatile architecture that would underpin everything from the Mustang to the Lincoln Continental for over two decades. Designed with a focus on space efficiency and reduced weight, the Fairmont featured modern European-inspired elements like rack-and-pinion steering and a MacPherson strut front suspension. While the 2.3-litre 'Lima' four-cylinder engine offered modest performance, its balance of fuel economy and interior room made the Fairmont an immediate sales record-breaker for Ford.
Ford Fairmont specs
The Ford Fairmont produces 88 bhp (66 kW) and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 13.6 seconds and has a top speed of 95 mph (153 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Fairmont |
| Trim | 2.3 |
| Years | 1978–1983 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $3,600 when new |
| Engine | 2.3-litre SOHC inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,301 cc (2.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 88 bhp (66 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 13.6 s |
| Top speed | 95 mph (153 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,227 kg (2,705 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 72 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 Fairmont worth?
A typical Ford Fairmont is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $12,000 (about £2,200 – £8,900).
Its original price when new was about $3,600.
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 Fairmont rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Fairmont is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 19 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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 Fairmont fun facts
- The 1978 Fairmont set a first-year sales record for a new model, surpassing the original 1965 Ford Mustang's debut performance.
- A 1978 Fairmont Futura coupe became the 100 millionth vehicle ever assembled by the Ford Motor Company.
- The Fairmont's lightweight chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout eventually made it a popular 'sleeper' choice for drag racers swapping in V8 engines.
