1983 Ford Granada GL 2.5 diesel

Summary:

Old class. Spacious, great ride, better than a Mercedes

Faults:

The engine tends to overheat if it is maintained at high speeds or under heavy load.

Hoses and radiator replaced shortly before the 500,000 km mark due to wear.

Brake pad replacement.

The cylinder head gasket is sensitive to extreme heat; neglecting the water level can easily burn the gasket or warp the cylinder head.

Minor oil leaks (occasional, nothing serious—typical for cars of that era).

The diesel engine is somewhat slow and noisy, but that is the only downside to the engine.

General Comments:

It is an impressive, comfortable car that is very easy to drive, with a level of reliability that I would venture to say borders on 100%.

I bought the car in good condition and with low mileage; I thoroughly enjoyed driving it, I’m not exaggerating when I say I traveled across almost all of Europe in it, and throughout the time I owned it, I have nothing but good things to say about it.

Inside, it’s like a spaceship—incredibly sophisticated and comfortable, with soft, plush seats, an excellent driving position, and—despite its size—it’s very easy to drive. You can even turn the wheel with just one finger, thanks to the power steering (what car from the 80s can be driven like that?).

Excellent soundproofing (aside from the engine), good climate control (heating and air conditioning worked perfectly).

The way the vehicle drives is truly a delight; it is very comfortable for long trips. While it is true that it isn't a fast car (though what naturally aspirated diesel from the 80s ever was?) I can vouch for the fact that it is even more comfortable than a Mercedes 240D. That was the car I owned before the Granada, and I can confidently say the Ford surpasses it. Besides being faster (comparing the two diesels), it is just as comfortable and pleasant to drive as the Mercedes, and it consumes the same amount of fuel, or even less, on the open road.

As I mentioned earlier, the only downside is that it isn't a fast car; the Peugeot-sourced diesel engine lacks power for the Granada's weight. Even so, it is very reliable, and you can cruise at 130 km/h with complete peace of mind.

I have very fond memories of this car; it would never leave you stranded, the kind of thing that lasts a lifetime and is virtually indestructible. That sums up the Ford Granada. A well-made car with high-quality materials, a true gem.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd August, 2026

29th Aug 2026, 16:58

The Granada is a great car; it’s a shame that Ford abandoned the executive car segment after the 90s. In terms of quality, it was exactly as you say, on par with a Mercedes or a BMW 5 Series from the 80s.

Anyone who owned one of these cars was either a millionaire or very well-off financially, because the spare parts were much more expensive than those for an ordinary Ford, even though it was an extremely reliable car.