The primary-generation Ford Festiva got here in quite a lot of physique types, together with a three- or five-door hatchback, sedan, and wagon. Engine choices have been restricted to a 1.1-liter or 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine, relying on geographical space and manufacturing firm. The Ford Festiva got here with a four- or five-speed guide transmission (relying on trim stage), an impartial entrance suspension, and a torsion beam rear suspension. The LX trim was the best trim stage obtainable and supplied a number of upgrades like a five-speed guide transmission, a tachometer, cassette radio, and material inside seating.
In 1990, a “facelifted” model of types was launched, with just a few enhancements: the Ford Festiva made the leap from carburetor to gasoline injection, the transmission choices modified (now a five-speed guide or three-speed computerized) and the seatbelts got an improve. The entrance seat belts went from guide to motorized (besides within the Canadian market, the place guide entrance seat belts remained), and for the passengers within the again, guide rear seat belts have been added as customary. The next 12 months, in 1991, trim ranges have been simplified by consolidating the L Plus and LX into the only GL trim. The GL gained alloy wheels and a “sport” choice package deal.
For all its attraction and worth, the Ford Festiva didn’t rating very nicely by way of passenger or pedestrian security, gaining a low automobile security ranking (two out of 5 stars) in Monash College’s “Used Automotive Security Scores” purchaser’s information.