Ford Transit Mk3
The 'fast-front' workhorse that brought direct injection to the masses.
- Power
- 68 bhp
- Top speed
- 75 mph
About the Ford Transit Mk3
The Mk3 Ford Transit, codenamed 'Triton', represented a radical departure from the boxy aesthetics of its predecessors with its aerodynamic 'one-box' design and a best-in-class drag coefficient of 0.37. The 2.5-litre 'Di' engine was a significant technological milestone, being one of the first high-speed direct-injection diesels in a volume commercial vehicle, offering a 24% improvement in fuel economy over the outgoing York unit. While the long-wheelbase models retained a beam axle, the short-wheelbase variants introduced independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, greatly improving car-like handling. Today, surviving Mk3s are increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their durability and status as a definitive British cultural icon.
Ford Transit Mk3 specs
The Ford Transit Mk3 produces 68 bhp (51 kW) and 143 Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Transit |
| Generation | Mk3 |
| Trim | 2.5 Di |
| Years | 1986–1991 |
| Type | Van |
| Body style | Van |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 2.5-litre direct-injection I4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,496 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 68 bhp (51 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 143 Nm (105 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,250 rpm |
| Top speed | 75 mph (120 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,600 kg (3,527 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 43 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Ford Transit Mk3 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Transit Mk3 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 Transit Mk3 fun facts
- The Mk3's aerodynamic 'fast-front' design was so efficient that its drag coefficient was lower than many contemporary passenger cars.
- The 2.5 Di engine was so reliable and efficient it was later adopted by London Taxis International for the FX4 and TX1 cabs.
- On July 25, 1985, just before the Mk3 launch, the two-millionth Transit rolled off the line and was presented to botanist David Bellamy.
