- Fuel-efficient 2.0-litre engine
- Safe and predictable handling
- Good load space
- Engine performance only adequate
- Engine noise at higher rpm
- For liftback, limited rear leg room and head room
Review: Ford HA Mondeo (1995-96)
Overview
Released in July 1995, the Ford HA Mondeo was available as a mid-size liftback, sedan or wagon. Manufactured in Belgium, the Mondeo was powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine which had double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder; transmission choices consisted of a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual.
Dimensions
Compared to its AY Telstar predecessor, the Mk.1 Mondeo sedan was 204 mm shorter (4481 mm), 1 mm narrower (1749 mm), 21 mm taller (1421 mm) and had a 94 mm longer wheelbase (2704 mm). Relative to the sedan, the liftback models had a 2 mm lower roofline (1419 mm), while the wagon roofline was raised by 20 mm (1441 mm).
Suspension
The Mk.1 Mondeo had MacPherson strut front suspension with lower A-arms and separate anti-roll bars attached by drop links directly to the struts. The liftback and sedan models were fitted with Ford’s independent ‘Quadralink’ rear suspension system which incorporated passive rear wheel steering; the wagon, however, had all-independent short and long arm coil spring suspension.
| Body | Variants | Engine | Trans. | Peak power | Peak torque |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wagon | LX | 2.0-litre petrol I4 | 4sp auto, 5sp man. |
97 kW at 6000 rpm | 175 Nm at 4000 rpm |
| Sedan | LX, GLX |
||||
| Liftback | GLX |
Safety equipment
Standard safety equipment for the HA Mondeo included a driver’s airbag and front seatbelt pretensioners. The Mondeo was also fitted with four-wheel disc brakes, though ABS was optional.
Brakes
The Mk.1 Mondeo had 260 mm by 24 mm vented front brake discs and 253 mm by 20 mm vented rear discs.
Features
Standard features for the Mondeo LX included a four speaker sound system with radio and cassette player, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, central locking, power mirrors and a height and reach adjustable steering wheel.
The Mondeo GLX was further equipped with air conditioning, velour trim, powered height adjustment for the driver’s seat and power windows.
Review: Ford HB Mondeo (1995-96)
Overview
Released in October 1995, the HB Mondeo introduced only minor changes compared to its HA predecessor as the protective side mouldings were removed and the LX wagon was fitted with air conditioning as standard.
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