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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Ford APV

1984Coachwork by Ghia

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Production period
1984
Body style
MPV
Engine
Inline-4
Type
Concept

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR

Coachbuilding, design & conversions

PRICE & SALES RECORD

Vehicle value

Original price
Not documented
Latest recorded sale
Not documented

01 / THE STORY

History & context

The Ford APV emerged as another striking creation from the esteemed Ghia design studio, making its debut on the auto-show circuit in 1984. This unveiling coincided with the introduction of the pioneering Chrysler vans, marking a significant moment in automotive history. Amidst the buzz surrounding the Chrysler vans, Ford also showcased the Aerostar Concept in 1984. This concept, crafted by Ford designers, offered a glimpse into the future, closely resembling the production vehicle that would bear the same name. Notably, the Aerovan concept preceded the launch of Chrysler’s Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager duo by two years, and the Ford Aerostar by four years, positioning Ford as a trailblazer in the burgeoning minivan segment. Under the hood, the Ford APV housed a robust 1.6-liter engine borrowed from the Ford Escort. Positioned at the front of the vehicle, this engine delivered reliable performance, ensuring a smooth and efficient driving experience. In terms of dimensions, the Ford APV boasted a well-proportioned stance, reflecting its versatility and practicality as a van. With a length of 4090 mm, a width of 1675 mm, and a height of 1690 mm, the APV offered ample interior space while maintaining maneuverability on the road. Its wheelbase measured 2405 mm, contributing to a stable and balanced ride. Despite its spacious interior and generous dimensions, the Ford APV remained relatively lightweight, tipping the scales at 1088 kg. This lightweight construction enhanced agility and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for urban driving and long-distance journeys alike. The Ford APV concept embodied Ford’s commitment to innovation and forward-thinking design. By anticipating the growing demand for versatile and family-friendly vehicles, Ford positioned itself at the forefront of the minivan revolution, setting the stage for future success in this competitive segment. While the Ford APV concept never made it to production, its influence reverberated throughout the automotive industry, shaping the development of minivans for years to come. As a testament to its enduring legacy, the Ford APV remains a symbol of innovation and vision in the ever-evolving world of automotive design.

02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY

Specifications & construction

Production & construction

Production type
Concept

Engine & performance

Engine configuration
Inline-4

Dimensions & accommodation

Length
4,090 mm
Width
1,675 mm
Height
1,690 mm

Design & manufacture

Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Ghia
Manufacturer · Documented
Ford

06 / EVENTS & AWARDS

Events & awards

Geneva General · legacy_preserved
Date
1984
Chassis
General

Preserved CI 1.0 relation. Evidence field: _al_listing_engine_location. No award inferred.

08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE

Archive

References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.

ReferenceSource type
AllCarIndex — 1984 Ford APV www.allcarindex.com Independent concept registry
Story Cars — 1984 Ford APV by Ghia www.story-cars.com Independent concept history
Ford Aerostar model history — Aerovan/APV development en.wikipedia.org Independent model history

10 / CONNECTED HISTORY

Timeline

Chronological history1 dated records
  1. Unassigned chassis · Event

    Geneva

THE CONVERSATION

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