1985 Ford Orion LX 1.6 diesel from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Very reliable and comfortable, but poor acceleration
Faults:
Brake vacuum pump stopped working at around 150000 miles.
Paint work became gradually more blotchy over the years.
Had to replace bellows where the brake pedal connector goes through the engine firewall at about 140000 miles. This was a very difficult job.
Replaced exhaust pipe and muffler at 180000 miles.
Engine seized at 230000 miles. Up to that point, it never required oil top-ups between oil changes, nor any other major engine maintenance.
General Comments:
Totally reliable car. Poor acceleration, but very smooth once up to speed, and easy, comfortable and quiet when cruising at 75 miles/hour on the motorway.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 19th February, 2012
22nd Jun 2025, 18:09
The first generation of the Orion (1983-1986) was the best of the three. As you say, the car was simple but very reliable and indestructible.
The 1.6-liter diesel engine was the first diesel made by Ford Europe, and it was a great engine, with fuel consumption that would be considered low even today. The only problem is that, for me, it wasn't powerful enough for midsize cars like the Orion or Escort, but it was more adaptable for the smaller Fiesta.