BUYING: Mk2 Granada
Expert guide on the facelifted V6 versions of Ford’s big saloon.
W ith the competition snapping at the heals of its class-leading Mk2 Granada, Ford ushered in a revised version in October 1982.
Codenamed Gloria, the updated Mk2 was no half-hearted facelift either, the manufacturer pumping £50 million into keeping its flagship model at the top of the large car tree. What Ford spent its money on translated, most notably, into revised front and rear styling, an updated dashboard, better brakes, tweaked suspension and different seat designs.
Much of the change was in the name of refinement and although the Pinto-powered and diesel versions were more than capable, if you wanted your Granada to have the power to match its smoother styling and enhanced comfort, then there was only one engine to have – the Cologne V6. For six-cylinder fans, the refreshed Mk2 range offered the choice of the 2.3-litre and carburettor-fed 2.8-litre in GL and Ghia trim, with the smaller engine also available in the entry-level L specification. The fuel-injected 2.8-litre was also found in the Ghia, but the best news was that it was also nestled in the engine bay of the all-new 2.8 Injection model.
Blending a sporting specification with comfort, the 2.8 Injection boasted white TRX alloy wheels, black spoilers, Recaro front seats with mesh infill head restraints, colour-coded bumpers, front foglamps, electric sunroof and blacked out trim.
The V6 line-up got even more attractive with the subsequent arrival of the LX and the luxurious Ghia X, which was followed by the UK-only Ghia X Executive. Limited to the Saloon body style, the Ghia X Executive was the most lavish model in the history of the Granada, featuring grey Connolly leather trim, a leather steering wheel and door inserts, plus twin driving lamps mounted in the grille. It would prove to be the Mk2’s swansong too, ensuring that the boxy Granada literally went out in fine style.
Arguably the most desirable versions of the Mk2 Granada, particularly in higher trim levels, the facelifted V6s are also the most available, but each year numbers dwindle while prices increase. While they’re getting more expensive though, they’re still a relative bargain in classic Ford circles — after all, what else comes with V6 grunt, RWD and lashings of style and comfort for the same money?