Ford : Granada Mk2
Model Introduction
The Ford Granada Mk2 arrived in 1977 as a comprehensive redesign of the Mk1, offering sharper styling, improved refinement, and a more modern image for Ford’s flagship executive model. Developed once again by Ford of Europe, the Mk2 kept the same basic rear-wheel-drive platform and engine range as its predecessor but introduced a boxier, more angular body styled by Filippo Sapino at Ghia. The design featured large glass areas, slimmer pillars for improved visibility and flush-mounted headlights to give a cleaner, more contemporary look. Engine options included the familiar 2.0-litre Pinto four-cylinder and a range of V6s - Cologne and Essex units in 2.3-, 2.8-, and 3.0-litre forms - offering a spread of performance to suit both fleet buyers and private owners.
Body styles included four-door saloon and estate versions, with the estate gaining a reputation for cavernous load capacity and excellent long-distance comfort. Unlike the Mk1, the coupé was discontinued early in the Mk2’s development due to declining demand in that sector. Inside, the Mk2 was significantly more modern, with updated switchgear, improved ergonomics, and a more spacious cabin. Ghia models introduced high-end features such as velour trim, wood-effect dash panels, electric windows, sunroofs, and optional air conditioning, helping the Granada compete with more expensive rivals like the Rover SD1 and BMW 5 Series. The 2.8i Ghia X offered impressive performance, fuel injection, and a full suite of luxury equipment, making it the flagship of the range.
The Mk2 Granada was produced at Ford’s plants in Dagenham and Cologne, and continued to dominate the UK’s executive car market through the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was widely adopted by government departments, police forces, and taxi firms thanks to its strong reliability, easy servicing, and commanding road presence. In Europe it enjoyed particular success in Germany where the fuel-injected 2.8i models were especially popular. With over 900,000 units produced before being replaced by the more aerodynamic Mk3 (Scorpio) in 1985, the Granada Mk2 cemented its place as a trusted and aspirational car for business and private owners alike. Today, surviving examples are increasingly rare, with top-spec Ghia and 2.8i models especially prized for their blend of understated luxury and period charm.
Magazine Articles
-
Once a Ford always a Ford?
How Dagenham and Cologne are trying yet again to become middle-class heroes with this new Granada
-
Newcomers : Teutonic twins
LJK Setright on the look alike new Ford Granadas and Opel Rekords
-
In the grip of the gremlins
Ian Fraser on the blemishes under the Granada's smooth skin
-
Giant Test
Citroen CX2400 GTi v Ford Granada 2.8S
-
Something old, something new
Ford Granada 2.8i
-
Giant Test
Peugeot 505 STI v Ford Granada 2.3GL v Audi 100 5S
-
Giant Test
Ford Granada 2.3GL v Mercedes 200 v Volvo 244GL
-
Scoop!
Ford's new Granada will be announced on August 28. Superficially, the Granada seems little changed. But, in a departure from their normal 'cosmetics-first' new-model policy, Ford have ploughed more than £100m into under-the-skin engineering improvements
-
Newcomers : Granada joins Mercedes league
With Bob Lutz-inspired revisions, Ford are set to rock the luxury-car establishment with their big saloon
-
Giant Test
Ford Granada 2.3GL v Volvo 244GLE v Talbot Tagora 2.3GLS
-
Free Wheelin'
Ford Granada 2.8i
-
Giant test
Ford Granada Ghia XFi v Volvo 760GLE v Peugeot 604STI
