1989 Ford Orion 1600E from UK and Ireland - Comments

Overheating. Although I don't understand how the engine survived. At first I thought the gauge was faulty as I had previously removed it to install white dials. On motorway jouneys the needle went all the way past the red line. After changing the thermostat thing back to normal and the roads are more enjoyable as I can give it some welly. Rear doors sometimes do not open with the central locking and occasionally the boot has jammed shut. Passenger side elecy window starting to slow. Arches all round generally rusted but this has been sorted as well as rust under rear window.

Love the leather. Would never have a car without it. Not so sure still about the wood even after owning the car for just over a year. Occasionally get asked what it is (1600E) and can they have a look. I'm considering changing the wheels to a more modern look. Also replaced the gear knob for a MOMO which has a more solid connection and makes for more enjoyable driving. Also may replace chrome trim along the outer door panels as they are beginning to fade. Other than that and the odd Ghia driver who thinks his/her car is top of the range I couldn't ask for more. Well a little extra power would be handy!!

I also have a 1600e Orion, I have owned it for about 18 months now and apart from a bit of a problem with the cam (which was my fault anyway) it has been a faultless car. When the cam died I replaced it with a Kent race cam and followers. Wow, what a difference.

The only thing I would love to find out is how many of these rare beasts were made, and how many are left on the road today? If anybody can help me with this, can they email me at - mini.crazy@btinternet.co.uk

Thanks,

Shaun.c

Totally right, I have had mine about 12 months now, had to change a few things - fuel pump, brakes etc, but well worth it.

Now just finish modding it - lowered 60mm and a set of 15" wheels on it, looks great.

My first car a 1600e, for those of you who don, t even know what I'm talking about-the beast they call it!!!i, v had mine for almost two years now and damn can that thing can shift!i bought another one since, but that was only to strip down the interior and transplant it into the project e!!!since I bought the car for £800 i, v gone mad on it and spent £8000 restoring it!the mintest 1600e you, ll ever see!brand new arches--no rust!full respray dropped by 60mm 15 inch chromes, twin headlamp conversion front rst bonnet and bumper, powerflow exaust damn its loud and electronically you, ll never see so much new stuff in such an old car!I'm 20 years old, the e is 17 but still it does any golf, clio, but not the ultimate rst or cossie because the turbo conversion will happen in n.

I have a 1600e, and am wanting 2 get a body kit for it, a dont know much about cars nd was wondering what mark it is and what body kits will fit on it. also does anyone have a passenger side back door triangle window for sale? please email me with your help thanks, mclcl@hotmail.co.uk.