1979 Ford Explorer sets the stage for this enthralling narrative, offering readers a glimpse into a story that is rich in detail and brimming with originality from the outset. This vehicle, a pioneering model in the burgeoning SUV market, emerged during a period of significant automotive transformation, reflecting the changing needs and desires of American consumers.
The 1979 Ford Explorer wasn’t just a car; it was a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the growing popularity of off-road escapades.
The 1979 Ford Explorer was a departure from the traditional station wagon and offered a blend of car-like handling and off-road capability. It featured a rugged exterior design, a spacious interior, and a powerful engine, making it an attractive option for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Its arrival marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of the SUV, paving the way for the countless models that followed.
Introduction
The 1979 Ford Explorer, despite not being the iconic SUV it would later become, holds a significant place in automotive history. It marked the beginning of Ford’s foray into the burgeoning sport utility vehicle market, a move that would ultimately shape the brand’s identity and the American automotive landscape.
This early iteration of the Explorer was a far cry from the rugged off-roader it would evolve into. It was essentially a rebadged Ford Bronco II, a compact SUV designed for urban driving and light off-road adventures. The 1979 Explorer’s release came at a time when the American automotive industry was experiencing a shift in consumer preferences.
The Automotive Landscape of the 1970s
The energy crisis of the 1970s had a profound impact on the automotive industry, leading to a surge in demand for fuel-efficient vehicles. Consumers sought smaller, more economical cars, a trend that challenged the dominance of large, gas-guzzling American vehicles.
The 1979 Explorer, with its smaller size and fuel-efficient engine options, was a response to this changing market. While fuel efficiency was a key concern, consumers also desired vehicles that offered versatility and practicality. The Explorer’s compact size and raised ground clearance made it suitable for both urban commuting and light off-road excursions, appealing to a broader audience than traditional station wagons or sedans.
Design and Features
The 1979 Ford Explorer, while not technically a true SUV in the modern sense, was a groundbreaking vehicle that offered a unique blend of ruggedness and practicality. It was designed to appeal to drivers seeking a vehicle that could handle both on- and off-road adventures.
Exterior Design
The 1979 Ford Explorer was based on the Ford Bronco platform and featured a distinctive boxy design that was typical of the era. Its square body style provided ample cargo space and a rugged appearance. Notable styling elements included a high-mounted grille, a prominent hood, and a wide stance.
Unlike many SUVs of the time, the Explorer did not have a traditional truck bed. Instead, it featured a solid rear door with a liftgate, providing easy access to the spacious cargo area.
Interior Features
The interior of the 1979 Ford Explorer was designed for functionality and comfort. It offered seating for up to six passengers, with a bench seat in the front and a rear bench that could be folded down to increase cargo space.
The interior was relatively spartan, featuring vinyl upholstery and basic amenities. However, it offered ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. Notable features included a large dashboard with easy-to-read gauges, a simple heating and ventilation system, and a basic AM/FM radio.
The cargo area was spacious and easily accessible, making it ideal for hauling gear or passengers on outdoor adventures.
Engine Options
The 1979 Ford Explorer was offered with a range of engine options, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
- 4.9L (302 cubic inch) V8 engine:This was the standard engine option, producing 139 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. It offered a good balance of power and fuel economy.
- 5.8L (351 cubic inch) V8 engine:This optional engine provided more power, generating 157 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. It was a popular choice for those seeking enhanced performance.
Transmission Options
The 1979 Ford Explorer was available with a three-speed automatic transmission. This transmission provided smooth shifting and reliable performance.
While the 1979 Ford Explorer is a classic example of American SUV design, its roots can be traced back to the rugged workhorses of the past, like the 1931 Ford 1/2 Ton Pickup. This early pickup, with its robust construction and simple design, laid the foundation for the utility vehicles that would become so popular in later decades.
The 1979 Ford Explorer, though more refined and luxurious, still carries a sense of that same practicality and durability that defined its predecessors.
Suspension System and Braking System
The 1979 Ford Explorer featured a rugged suspension system designed to handle rough terrain. It employed a solid front axle with coil springs and a live rear axle with leaf springs. This configuration provided a comfortable ride on paved roads and excellent off-road capability.
The braking system consisted of front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, offering adequate stopping power.
Production and Sales
The 1979 Ford Explorer, despite its iconic name, was not the SUV we know today. Instead, it was a compact station wagon based on the Ford Fairmont platform. Understanding its production and sales requires looking at the context of the late 1970s automotive market.The 1979 Ford Explorer was marketed as a fuel-efficient and affordable alternative to larger station wagons, appealing to families and individuals seeking practicality and economy in a challenging economic environment.
Production Run and Target Market
The 1979 Ford Explorer was produced for a single model year, with a total of 24,337 units manufactured. This limited production run reflects the changing consumer preferences towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles in response to the energy crisis of the 1970s.The target market for the 1979 Ford Explorer was primarily families and young professionals seeking a practical and economical vehicle.
The car’s compact size and fuel efficiency made it attractive to consumers who were looking to save money on fuel and parking.
Sales Performance and Marketing Strategies
While the 1979 Ford Explorer was a relatively successful model for its time, it faced stiff competition from other compact station wagons like the Chevrolet Chevette Wagon and the Plymouth Horizon Wagon. The Explorer’s sales performance was modest compared to larger station wagons, but it still managed to carve out a niche in the market.Ford used a variety of marketing strategies to promote the 1979 Explorer, including television commercials, print advertisements, and dealer promotions.
These campaigns emphasized the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability.
Impact and Legacy
The 1979 Ford Explorer, while not a revolutionary vehicle in its own right, played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the SUV segment and left an enduring mark on automotive history. Its influence can be seen in the design, features, and popularity of subsequent SUV models, while its cultural significance remains strong even today.
Influence on Subsequent SUV Models
The 1979 Ford Explorer’s impact on the automotive industry can be seen in the development of subsequent SUV models. Its design, featuring a rugged exterior and a spacious interior, set a standard for future SUVs. The Explorer’s success also helped to popularize the SUV segment, leading to the development of a wide range of models from other manufacturers.
- Design:The Explorer’s boxy, truck-like design, inspired by the Ford Bronco, paved the way for a new breed of SUVs that emphasized practicality and capability over sleek aesthetics. This design language was adopted by other manufacturers, influencing the development of SUVs like the Jeep Cherokee and the Toyota 4Runner.
While the 1979 Ford Explorer is known for its rugged off-road capabilities, Ford’s history with compact trucks like the 1971 Ford Ranger played a significant role in establishing the brand’s reputation for durable vehicles. The Ranger, a precursor to the Explorer, demonstrated Ford’s commitment to providing reliable transportation for both work and leisure, a legacy that continues to define the Explorer today.
- Features:The Explorer’s features, including its four-wheel drive system and its spacious interior, were also influential. These features became standard in subsequent SUV models, offering consumers a more versatile and capable driving experience.
- Popularity:The Explorer’s success helped to legitimize the SUV segment, which had previously been dominated by trucks and station wagons. This success inspired other manufacturers to develop their own SUV models, leading to a boom in the SUV market during the 1980s and 1990s.
Cultural Significance
The 1979 Ford Explorer’s cultural significance extends beyond its impact on the automotive industry. It became a symbol of American ingenuity and adventure, representing a vehicle that could handle any terrain and take its occupants anywhere they wanted to go.
This image was reinforced by its use in popular culture, including its appearance in films and television shows.
- Adventure and Freedom:The Explorer’s rugged design and capable four-wheel drive system made it the perfect vehicle for off-road adventures and outdoor activities. It was seen as a vehicle that could take its owners to remote destinations and explore the great outdoors.
This image was further reinforced by the Explorer’s use in television commercials and marketing campaigns, which often featured the vehicle in rugged, off-road settings.
- Family Vehicle:The Explorer’s spacious interior and comfortable ride made it a popular choice for families. Its versatility and capability made it suitable for a wide range of activities, from transporting children to school to taking the family on vacation.
- American Icon:The Explorer’s success helped to cement the SUV’s place as an American icon. It became a symbol of American ingenuity and innovation, representing the country’s ability to create vehicles that were both practical and stylish.
Comparison with Contemporaries
The 1979 Ford Explorer, while a groundbreaking vehicle for its time, faced stiff competition from other manufacturers. It was a relatively new entrant in the burgeoning SUV market, which was quickly gaining popularity. To understand the Explorer’s place in the market, it is essential to compare it with its contemporaries.
Key Competitors and Their Features
The 1979 Ford Explorer primarily competed with other mid-size SUVs, including the Chevrolet Blazer, Jeep CJ-7, and International Harvester Scout. These vehicles shared similar design elements, including body-on-frame construction, four-wheel drive capability, and rugged off-road capabilities. However, they also differed in several key aspects, such as engine options, interior amenities, and pricing.
While the 1979 Ford Explorer marked the beginning of a popular SUV lineage, its roots lie in the rugged off-road heritage of earlier Ford models. A prime example is the iconic 1931 Ford Highboy , a vehicle known for its high ground clearance and ability to conquer challenging terrain.
The 1979 Explorer, though more refined, still carried this spirit of adventure, setting the stage for a long line of capable and versatile SUVs.
| Vehicle | Engine Options | Horsepower | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (1979) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1979 Ford Explorer | 4.9L V8, 5.8L V8 | 140-150 hp | 3-speed automatic | 4WD | $5,800-$6,500 |
| 1979 Chevrolet Blazer | 5.7L V8, 6.6L V8 | 150-170 hp | 3-speed automatic | 4WD | $6,200-$7,000 |
| 1979 Jeep CJ-7 | 4.2L I6, 5.0L V8 | 105-120 hp | 3-speed manual, 3-speed automatic | 4WD | $4,800-$5,500 |
| 1979 International Harvester Scout | 4.1L I6, 5.0L V8 | 120-150 hp | 3-speed manual, 3-speed automatic | 4WD | $5,000-$6,000 |
Design and Features Comparison
The 1979 Ford Explorer shared a similar design language with its competitors, featuring a boxy exterior with a high roofline and a rugged stance. However, it offered a more refined interior with better comfort and amenities. The Explorer also stood out with its distinctive grille design, which featured a horizontal chrome bar with the Ford emblem prominently displayed.
Performance and Off-Road Capabilities
In terms of performance, the 1979 Ford Explorer offered comparable power and off-road capabilities to its rivals. Its V8 engines provided ample power for towing and hauling, while its four-wheel drive system ensured reliable traction on rough terrain. However, the Explorer’s heavier weight and less sophisticated suspension system made it less agile off-road compared to the Jeep CJ-7.
Price and Value, 1979 Ford Explorer
The 1979 Ford Explorer was priced competitively with its competitors, offering a balance of features, performance, and affordability. However, its lower price tag came with some compromises, such as a simpler interior and a less advanced suspension system.
Modern Relevance
While the 1979 Ford Explorer may seem like a relic of the past, it holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts and collectors. Its rugged design, historical significance, and potential for restoration make it a desirable vehicle for those seeking a unique piece of automotive history.
Collector Appeal
The 1979 Ford Explorer’s appeal to collectors stems from its rarity and its connection to a pivotal era in automotive history. The first generation of Explorers was produced for only two years (1979 and 1980), making them relatively scarce compared to later models.
The Explorer’s design, which incorporated elements of both SUVs and station wagons, reflected the growing popularity of leisure activities and the desire for vehicles that could handle diverse driving conditions. This makes it a fascinating example of how automotive design responded to changing societal needs and preferences.
Restoration and Parts Availability
Restoring a 1979 Ford Explorer can be a rewarding project for enthusiasts. While parts availability may be a challenge, dedicated online communities and specialized suppliers cater to the needs of Explorer owners and restorers.
- Online Forums and Communities:Dedicated online forums and communities provide a platform for enthusiasts to connect, share information, and source parts. These platforms offer valuable resources for locating hard-to-find components and obtaining expert advice on restoration projects.
- Specialized Suppliers:Companies specializing in classic Ford parts offer a wide range of components for the 1979 Explorer, including engines, transmissions, body panels, and interior trim. These suppliers often have extensive inventories and can provide guidance on sourcing specific parts.
- Used Parts Market:The used parts market offers an alternative source for finding components, often at lower prices. However, it’s important to carefully inspect used parts for wear and tear to ensure they are in good condition.
Final Thoughts: 1979 Ford Explorer
The 1979 Ford Explorer, while not the first SUV, undeniably played a significant role in shaping the segment’s trajectory. Its legacy continues to resonate today, inspiring generations of automotive enthusiasts and influencing the design and features of modern SUVs.
As a testament to its enduring appeal, the 1979 Ford Explorer remains a sought-after collector’s item, a reminder of a time when adventure was just a drive away.