Del Rey: The Midsize Sedan That Made History

If you are passionate about classic cars, O Ford Del Rey certainly holds a special place in your memory. Launched in 1981, this mid-size sedan arrived on the Brazilian market with an innovative proposal: to unite elegance, comfort It is technology in a segment until then dominated by less sophisticated models. The Del Rey not only stood out in its time, but also marked automotive history in Brazil. Today, in 2024, we revisit this legend that still wins the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors.

THE BIRTH OF AN ICON

O Ford Del Rey was born with a challenging mission: to replace the Galaxie Landau, a luxurious and imposing sedan, but which was already showing signs of obsolescence in the face of changes in the market and consumer tastes. To achieve this, Ford bet on the platform of the Steed II, adjusting its dimensions and creating a car that stood out for its balance between refinement It is economy.

With straight lines and three well-defined volumes, the Del Rey exuded sophistication. Its two- and four-door versions appealed to different audiences, while the interior was full of details reminiscent of the comfort of luxury cars.

A technology was another highlight. Del Rey brought items that were new for its time, such as safety locks for children, electric windows It is retractable seat belts. But the great charm was in the ceiling console, which included reading lights and a blue-lit digital clock – a real luxury for the 1980s.

PERFORMANCE AND EVOLUTION

Initially equipped with the engine 1.6 of the Corcel, which delivered 69 horsepower, the Del Rey was aimed at fuel economy, a priority in a period marked by economic crises and high oil prices. Even so, its performance was considered efficient for the proposal of a mid-size sedan focused on comfort.

In 1983, the model gained the option of automatic transmission, a luxury item previously restricted to higher category vehicles. Already in 1984, the engine CHT was introduced, bringing greater agility to the sedan.

In the year of 1985, the Del Rey underwent a restyling that brought more sophisticated versions, such as GL, GLX It is Ghia, consolidating its status as a reference in finish and comfort. The following year, hydraulic steering became available as standard, further increasing drivability and driving pleasure.

LUXURY VERSIONS AND EQUIPMENT

If you were lucky enough to drive a From the King Gold, the most complete version of the model, would have items available that are still synonymous with comfort today:

• Velvet benches that gave a feeling of sophistication;
• Internally controlled rear view mirrors, facilitating adjustment;
• Alloy wheels It is fog lights, adding style and functionality.

It is no exaggeration to say that the Del Rey introduced the concept of luxury mid-size cars to Brazil, anticipating trends that would be followed by many other models in the following decades.

A DECADE OF SUCCESS

During their 10 years in the market, O Ford Del Rey won over the public and accumulated more than 350 thousand units sold. For many Brazilians, he was synonymous with elegance It is status.

In 1989, the model received an engine 1.8, further expanding its versatility. However, in the early 1990s, the automotive market began to change, and new competitors began to emerge. Thus, in 1992, the Del Rey gave way to the Ford Versailles, ending his career, but leaving a legacy that will be difficult to overcome.

THE LEGACY OF THE FORD DEL REY

Today, in 2024, the Del Rey continues to be fondly remembered by collectors and enthusiasts. Well-preserved models can surpass the R$ 40 thousand, depending on the version and the state of preservation. Restoring it is a true act of passion, and many clubs dedicated to the model help to keep this memory alive.

The importance of the Del Rey goes beyond its sales or technical specifications. It represented a new era for the Brazilian automotive market, showing that it was possible to offer refinement It is technology in a more accessible segment.

CONCLUSION

If you want to revisit a classic or learn more about the history of the automotive industry in Brazil, Ford Del Rey is an indispensable choice. He not only marked an era, but also left a legacy of quality, comfort It is innovation that inspires to this day.

Preserve this history and keep alive the memory of one of Ford's greatest icons in Brazil. The Del Rey is not just a car: it is a symbol of an era.