Ford Granada: The Father of the Del Rey

If you are passionate about classic cars or simply appreciate the history of the Brazilian automobile industry, Ford Granada deserves your attention. This European luxury sedan not only marked an era, but also inspired the iconic Ford Del Rey, one of the most emblematic models of Ford do Brasil in the 80s and early 90s. Let's explore together this fascinating story that unites German sophistication with Brazilian creativity in a scenario of economic crisis and adaptation.

The Context: Oil Crisis and the Search for Efficiency

In the 70s and 80s, the oil crisis shook the world. In Brazil, with fuel prices constantly rising, the great American-inspired models, such as the maverick and Landau, became unviable. These cars, which represented luxury and power, could no longer meet the new demands of the Brazilian market: efficiency and rationality.

A Ford of Brazil, in search of a worthy successor for the luxury segment, decided to abandon the American inspiration and turn to its German subsidiary. There, it found the Ford Granada, a sedan that symbolized sophistication, modernity and efficiency. This model became the main reference for the development of the Del Rey, but not everything was replicated.

Ford Granada: A Luxury Icon in Europe

Released in its second generation in 1977, O Ford Granada conquered the European market with its bold design and advanced engine options. With an aesthetic square and elegant, the model had three clearly defined volumes, which made it imposing and distinctive. Its dimensions were generous:

• Length: 4.72 meters
• Wheelbase: 2.77 meters
• Width: 1.79 meters

These measures provided excellent interior space, especially for rear seat passengers, something indispensable in a luxury car. In addition, the Granada offered a wide range of engines, which ranged from an economical 1.7 four-cylinder to a powerful 2.8 six-cylinder with direct injection, capable of delivering an impressive 160 horsepower. All of this was accompanied by modern features, such as an automatic transmission and a breathtaking level of finish.

The engine 2.3L, manufactured in Brazil, was one of those that attracted attention during the study for its adaptation to the national market. However, the advanced technical specifications of the Granada made the project unfeasible for large-scale production in the country. Thus, the need arose to develop a more economical and viable solution, culminating in the birth of Del Rey.

From Granada to Del Rey: Adapting to the Brazilian Reality

Ford Brazil's main mission was to create a model inspired by the Granada, but that would be suited to the country's economic and industrial conditions. Despite sharing the same essence of luxury and sophistication, the Del Rey It was a simplified project in several aspects:

Dimensional Differences

The Del Rey was significantly smaller:

• Length: 4.5 meters (22 cm less than the Granada)
• Wheelbase: 2.44 meters (33 cm less)
• Width: 1.68 meters (11 cm less)

These changes compromised interior space, especially in the back seat, but helped reduce costs and made the car more compatible with the profile of Brazilian consumers.

Modest Mechanics

While the Granada had powerful and modern engines, the Del Rey began its journey with the modest engine 1.6L 70 horsepower. Although economical, this engine did not live up to the luxury and performance proposal that the car's design suggested. Still, the Del Rey managed to win over the public with its comfort features, as hydraulic steering, electric windows and quality finish.

Del Rey's Success in Brazil

Even with its limitations, the Del Rey was a success. The model pleased with its balance between luxury and efficiency at a time marked by economic instability and rising fuel prices. The public valued the elegant aesthetics, inspired by the Granada, and the comfort features that made the Del Rey a desired car for families and executives.

In the 80s, the Del Rey received some improvements, including the adoption of a AP 1.8 manufactured by Volkswagen, which brought better performance and reliability. Its production extended until 1991, consolidating almost a decade of success.

Granada and Del Rey: Two Paths, One Legacy

While the Granada had its production ended in Europe in 1985, being replaced by Ford Scorpio, Del Rey continued its trajectory in Brazil until it was succeeded by Ford Versailles. Interestingly, the Versailles was an adaptation of the Volkswagen Santana, marking a new phase in Ford's history in the country.

Why is the Granada Important for Brazilian Automotive History?

O Ford Granada is an example of how an international model can profoundly influence the design and concept of a national car. Its elegant aesthetics and engineering solutions inspired one of Ford's greatest successes in Brazil, the Del Rey. Furthermore, it symbolizes the ability of automakers to adapt in times of crisis, bringing solutions that meet both market demands and the limitations of local production.

Today, both Granada and Del Rey are collector's items, prized by enthusiasts who recognize their role in automotive history. Well-preserved Granada models are rare and can fetch high prices on the European market. In Brazil, the Del Rey is fondly remembered as a landmark of affordable luxury in a time of economic transformation.

Conclusion: The Granada and the Heritage of Luxury

Can you imagine the impact that Ford Granada had when crossing the Atlantic as inspiration for the Del Rey? This story proves that even in challenging times, creativity and adaptability can create icons that span generations.

The Granada was much more than just a car: it was a vision of sophistication and modernity that inspired the creation of a model fully adapted to Brazilian needs. Today, when looking at a Del Rey or for a rare Grenade second generation, you don't just see a car, but also a story of innovation, overcoming and legacy.

If you are a classic car lover, it might be time to look for one of these models to call your own and keep alive the history of an era in which luxury and efficiency met. After all, both the Granada and the Del Rey left their mark on a market that knew how to value the best of the union between Brazil and Europe.