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1979 Ford LTD: A Stalwart of American Sedans

The 1979 Ford LTD stands as a testament to the era of full-size comfort and road presence. Born from the ambition of Ford Motor Company to offer a vehicle that combined luxury with everyday usability, the LTD was a popular choice for families and executives alike. At a time when automotive design was transitioning from the flamboyance of the '70s to the more conservative '80s, the LTD managed to capture the essence of both decades. A unique fact about this model year is that it marked the beginning of the downsizing trend, making it one of the last to boast such generous proportions.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1979 Ford LTD exuded confidence with its long hood, prominent grille, and square shoulders. The car's silhouette was unmistakably American, with a hint of elegance that was further accentuated by its vinyl roof options and opera windows on some models. Inside, passengers were greeted by plush seating and an abundance of space, with materials ranging from durable fabrics to optional leather. Technological features for its era included power windows and locks, air conditioning, and even an 8-track player in some trims. Color options varied widely, but shades like Midnight Blue and Cordovan were particularly sought after. The LTD was available in several body styles, including two-door and four-door sedans, with the four-door versions being especially popular for their practicality.

Historical Significance

The 1979 Ford LTD played a pivotal role in setting a benchmark for full-size American sedans. Its blend of comfort features and affordability set it apart from competitors and paved the way for future generations of family cars. The model's success also reflected consumer preferences at the time, favoring roomy interiors and smooth rides over sportier attributes.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its expansive hood lay a range of powertrain options, with engines ranging from an economical inline-six to powerful V8s. Performance varied accordingly, with top speeds reaching around 110 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph taking anywhere from 10 to 14 seconds depending on engine choice. The ride was tuned for comfort rather than agility, absorbing bumps with ease while isolating passengers from road noise. Drivers could expect a serene experience behind the wheel, accompanied by the reassuring rumble of American horsepower.

Ownership Experience

The LTD was versatile enough to serve as a daily driver or take center stage at car shows. Its reliability was commendable for its time, though some components like emissions controls could be finicky as they aged. Maintenance was generally straightforward due to the simplicity of design and abundant parts availability.

Fun Facts

Among enthusiasts, certain editions like the "LTD Landau" held a special allure due to their enhanced trim levels and distinctive styling cues. Celebrity ownerships added to the car's allure; notable figures such as politicians and movie stars were often seen in an LTD. While no speed records were broken by this sedan, it did set sales records for Ford during its production years.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1979 Ford LTD can fetch anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on condition and originality. While exact production numbers are elusive, tens of thousands were produced making them relatively easy to find but harder in pristine condition. Over time, values have begun appreciating modestly as enthusiasts seek out these icons of American automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1979 Ford LTD encapsulates an era where size equated to status and comfort was king. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to represent both a bygone era of automotive excess and the timeless desire for practical luxury. As we look back on this classic American sedan, we're reminded that sometimes more is indeed more.

1979 Ford LTD Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit-BNK 21Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit. 22-piece set for two stabilizer bars. Contains all rubber bushings, washers, bolts and nuts, enough for one front end. Set