The history of the Orion
The Mk3b (or 3.5, or (post) facelift mk.3) Orion replaced the Mk3 in October 1992 and though visually similar to the Mk3 (pre-facelift), bar the ‘Smiley’ Oval Grille on the outside, incorporated increased security, and safety features including side impact bars, the down side to this however was that the 0-60 times were slowed by just under half a second.
Available in the same, 1.4,1.6,1.8 and 1.8 Diesel engines, this model was again available in LX, Ghia and Ghia Si trim, and where applicable now came with one shot lowering drivers window and heated mirrors. The Ghia Si model was distinguished from the Ghia, no longer by power (bar a few 130ps models produced in the Autumn of 92), but by including extras such as a rear spoiler and sports suspension.
In August 1993, the Orion name was then replaced by ‘Escort saloon’ possibly in an attempt to boost Ford’s Escort sales figures (Vauxhall had just dropped their Belmont name and rebadged this as an Astra saloon)
Tech Spec
|
Engine Size |
Engine |
BHP/PS |
NM Torque |
0-60 |
Max MPH |
|
1391cc |
Cfi 8v Petrol |
71 |
103@4000rpm |
14.2 |
101 |
|
1597cc |
Efi Zetec 16v Petrol |
90 |
134@3000rpm |
11.3 |
110 |
|
1796cc |
Efi Zetec 16v Petrol |
105 |
153@4000rpm |
10.2 |
116 |
|
1796cc |
Efi Zetec 16v Petrol |
130 |
162@4500rpm |
9.2 |
126 |
|
1753cc |
Mfi Diesel |
60 |
110@2500rpm |
16.7 |
95 |
General Spec
Length 4229mm
Height 1875mm
Width 1345mm