Ford Orion Mk3
The plush, booted sibling to the Mk5 Escort, representing the final era of the standalone Orion nameplate.
- Power
- 105 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.1 s
- Top speed
- 116 mph
About the Ford Orion Mk3
The Mk3 Ford Orion was the final generation to carry the name before being absorbed into the Escort range as the 'Escort Saloon' in 1993. Based on the Mk5 Escort platform, the Orion offered a more traditional three-box silhouette and a larger boot, aimed at buyers seeking a mini-Granada experience. The Ghia trim was the range-topper, featuring luxury touches like velour upholstery, additional soundproofing, and electric windows. While early models were criticised for their handling, the introduction of the Zeta (later Zetec) engines in 1992 significantly improved the driving experience.
Ford Orion Mk3 specs
The Ford Orion Mk3 produces 105 bhp (78 kW) and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.1 seconds and has a top speed of 116 mph (187 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Orion |
| Generation | Mk3 |
| Trim | 1.6 Ghia |
| Years | 1990–1993 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United States |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 105 bhp (78 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.1 s |
| Top speed | 116 mph (187 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,035 kg (2,282 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 101 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Ford Orion Mk3 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Orion Mk3 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 11 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 Orion Mk3 fun facts
- The Orion name was dropped in September 1993, after which the car was simply badged as the Ford Escort saloon to streamline the model range.
- Despite being a common sight in the 1990s, the Mk3 Orion has become exceptionally rare in the UK due to low survival rates and rust issues.
- The 1.6 Ghia featured the CVH engine initially, but was one of the first Fords to receive the new 16-valve DOHC Zetec engine during its production run.
