View source for Ford Tempo

{{Short description|Car model}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Ford Tempo
| image = 92-94 Ford Tempo.jpg
| aka = {{ubl |Ford Ghia||Ford Topaz|Mercury Topaz}}
| manufacturer = [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]]
| production = 1983–1994
| model_years = 1984–1994
| class = [[Compact car|Compact]]
| layout = [[Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout|FF layout]]<br/>[[Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout|AWD layout]]
| designer = [[Jack Telnack]]
| assembly = {{ubl|United States: [[Claycomo, Missouri]] ([[Ford Kansas City Assembly Plant|Kansas City Assembly]])|Canada: [[Oakville, Ontario]] ([[Oakville Assembly]])|Mexico: [[Cuautitlán Izcalli]] ([[Cuautitlán Assembly]])}}
| platform = 
| predecessor = [[Ford Fairmont|Ford Fairmont / Mercury Zephyr]]
| successor = [[Ford Mondeo (first generation)#Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique|Ford Contour / Mercury Mystique]]<ref name="mfc-kansascity"/>
| caption = 1992-1994 Ford Tempo
}}

The '''Ford Tempo''' is a front-engine, front-drive, five passenger, two- or four-door sedan manufactured and marketed by [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]] for model years 1984-1994, over a single generation. The successor of the [[Ford Fairmont]], the Tempo marked both the [[Downsize (automobile)|downsizing]] of the Ford compact car line and its adoption of [[front-wheel drive]]. Through its production, the model line was offered as a two-door coupe and four-door sedan, with the '''Mercury Topaz''' marketed as its divisional counterpart (no Lincoln version was sold). 

Deriving its chassis underpinnings and powertrain from the [[Ford Escort (North America)|Ford Escort]], the Tempo was the first aerodynamically styled sedan introduced by Ford. First seen on the 1982 [[Ford Sierra]] hatchbacks (designed by Ford of Europe) and the 1983 [[Ford Thunderbird (ninth generation)|Ford Thunderbird]], the model line was followed by the 1986 [[Ford Taurus (first generation)|Ford Taurus]].<ref name="usitc-1712"/>

Produced across multiple facilities in North America, the Tempo/Topaz was produced in a single generation of two-doors; two generations of four-door sedans were produced. For the 1995 model year, the Tempo/Topaz four-door sedan was replaced by the [[Ford Mondeo (first generation)#Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique|Ford Contour (and Mercury Mystique)]], developed from the [[Ford Mondeo (first generation)|Ford Mondeo]];<ref name="digmanbook"/><ref name="wc-sep1995"/> the two-door Tempo was not directly replaced.

==Development==
In the late 1970s Ford began planning to replace their [[Compact car|compact]] [[Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout|rear wheel drive]] [[Ford Fairmont|Ford Fairmont and Mercury Zephyr]] models with a new smaller [[Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout|front wheel drive]] (FWD) car.<ref name="nyt-dec1985"/> This new compact was expected to compete in the marketplace with General Motors' [[General Motors X platform (1980)|X-Body]], but wound up more similar to GM's [[General Motors J platform|J-cars]].<ref name="csm-dec1982"/> Ford's chief development engineer for the new car was Ed Cascardo.<ref name="ps-mar1983"/>

The Tempo and Topaz chassis shared some parts with the front-wheel-drive platform used on the [[Ford Escort (North America)#First generation (1981–1990)|first North American Ford Escort]], but with a wheelbase stretched by {{cvt|5.7|in|mm|0}} and distinctive new bodies. There were few common components due to the Tempo and Topaz's larger size.<ref name="csm-dec1982"/> Switching to front-wheel drive freed up interior space that would have otherwise been lost to accommodate a driveshaft and rear differential.

Wind tunnel testing on the Tempo began in December 1978. More than 450 hours of testing resulted in over 950 different design changes. The Tempo and Topaz both featured windshields inclined at a 60° angle and aircraft-inspired door frames, two features that had both appeared on the Thunderbird and Cougar in 1983. The door frames wrapped up into the roofline, which improved sealing, allowed for hidden drip rails, and cleaned up the A-pillar area of the car. The rear track was widened, improving aerodynamic efficiency. The front grille was laid back and the leading edge of the hood was tuned for aerodynamic cleanliness. The wheels were pushed out to the corners of the body, reducing turbulence. The cars' backlights were also laid down at 60°, and the rear deck was raised, reducing drag and resulting in greater fuel efficiency. Viewed from the side, the raised trunk imparted a wedge stance to the car which was especially prominent on the two-door coupes. The aerodynamic work resulted in a coefficient of drag (<math>\scriptstyle C_\mathrm d\,</math>) of 0.36 for the two-door Tempo, equal to that of the aero Ford Thunderbird. The four door returned a drag coefficient of 0.37.<ref name="pm-apr1983"/>

The Tempo was designed for a four-cylinder engine, but all production of Ford's 2.3&nbsp;L [[Ford Pinto engine#2.3 (LL23)|Lima]] [[Overhead camshaft engine|OHC]] four was committed to other product lines.<ref name="aw-aug2017"/> In 1983 Ford had stopped production of their [[Ford straight-six engine#200|200 cubic inch Thriftpower]] inline six, leaving unused capacity at the [[Lima Engine]] plant.<ref name="ttac-oct2010"/> Ford developed a four-cylinder engine that shared some features of the Thriftpower six, topped with a new cylinder head and using other new technologies, while repurposing as much tooling as possible at the Lima plant.<ref name="sae-831009"/><ref name="cc-jul2019"/>

When the cars were released, a turbocharged version of the new four cylinder was said to be in development, but this engine never became available. At that point, a V6 was not being considered.<ref name="csm-jun1983"/>

Released in 1983 as a 1984 model, more than 107,000 two-door Tempos and more than 295,000 four-door Tempos were sold in its first year.

==Features==
===Chassis and suspension===
The Tempo's chassis is a steel [[Vehicle frame#Unibody|unibody]].<ref name="pm-apr1983"/> The structure from the firewall forward is shared with the contemporary Ford Escort.<ref name="ttccna-hsc"/>

The Tempo's front suspension on each side comprises a lower lateral link triangulated by the [[anti-roll bar]] and a coil over MacPherson strut. The rear "Quadralink" suspension is two parallel lower lateral control links and a [[radius rod]] per side, with coil over MacPherson struts. This differed from the Escort's rear suspension, which used a lower lateral arm, radius rod, and non-concentric coil spring and shock absorber. The Tempo was the first ever American built Ford with an independent rear suspension using MacPherson struts.<ref name="hcc-nov2020"/>

Brakes are {{cvt|9.3|in|mm|0}} discs in front and {{cvt|8.0| × |1.2|in|mm|0}} drums in back.

Steering is by power assisted rack and pinion, with three turns lock-to-lock.

Standard tires on base models are 175/80R13, while higher trim levels have 185/70R14, and sportier models are fitted with [[Michelin TRX]] 185/65R365 metric tires on aluminum wheels.

===Powertrain===
The Tempo's four cylinder gasoline engine is called the "High Swirl Combustion" ([[Ford HSC engine|HSC]]) engine and displaces 2.3&nbsp;L. It has a cast iron block and head, with a single [[cam-in-block]] and two [[Overhead valve engine|overhead valves]] (OHV) per cylinder with pushrods and rocker arms. The HSC engine was also offered in a "High Specific Output" (HSO) version producing {{cvt|100|hp|kW|0}}.

In 1992 the 3.0&nbsp;L [[Ford Vulcan engine|Ford Vulcan]] [[V6 engine]] became an option in the Tempo.<ref name="ct-dec1991"/> Fitting the Vulcan V6 into the Tempo required changes to the water pump, and use of a more restrictive exhaust system that reduced maximum power.<ref name="pm-oct1991-1"/>

The original base transmission in the gasoline fueled Tempo/Topaz is a four-speed [[Ford IB transmission|IB4]] [[Manual transmission|manual]] that made up part of what Ford called the "Fuel Saver" powertrain. A five-speed [[Ford MTX transmission#MTX-III|MTX-III]] manual or a three-speed [[Ford ATX transmission|FLC]] [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] were optional upgrades.

From 1984 to 1986 a version of Mazda's [[Inline-four engine|four-cylinder]] [[Mazda diesel engines#RF|RF]] diesel engine was offered in the Tempo and Topaz. The only transmission paired with the diesel engine was the 5-speed manual.

===All Wheel Drive===
An optional All Wheel Drive (AWD) system became available in the Tempo and Topaz in 1987, and was offered until 1991. Although Ford had a long history with four wheel drive, and had built prototypes based on other car models before, the AWD Tempo was their first production passenger sedan to offer four wheel drive.<ref name="ct-oct1986"/>

This design of part-time system is not meant for serious off-road driving, nor for use on dry streets.<ref name="ca-dec2016"/><ref name="ttac-apr2020"/> It is designed specifically to provide additional traction in slippery road conditions. The system is controlled by a rocker switch in the interior.<ref name="tmc-aug1987"/><ref name="ttac-apr2020"/> When activated, the system engages a clutch which sends power to a limited-slip rear differential via a new driveshaft. There is no transfer case.<ref name="ca-dec2016"/>

The all-wheel-drive system adds {{cvt|105|lb|kg|1}} to the weight of the car, and increases ride height by just {{cvt|0.5|in|mm|0}}.<ref name="ca-dec2016"/>

The only engine offered with the AWD option was the HSO four cylinder, with the 3-speed automatic transmission.<ref name="ca-dec2016"/>

In 1991 Ford started referring to the system as "Four Wheel Drive" instead of All Wheel Drive.<ref name="pcs-1991"/>

==First generation (1984–1987)==
{{Infobox automobile
| name = First generation
| body_style = 2/4-door [[Sedan (automobile)|sedan]]
| image = 1984-1985 Ford Tempo sedan -- 03-09-2011.jpg
| production = 1983–1987
| model_years = 1984–1987
| wheelbase = {{cvt|99.9|in|mm|0}}
| length = {{cvt|176.7|in|mm|0}}
| width = {{cvt|68.3|in|mm|0}}
| height = {{cvt|52.7|in|mm|0}}
| engine = {{ubl
  | 2.3&nbsp;L ''[[Ford HSC engine|HSC]]'' [[Straight-four engine|I4]] ([[Petrol engine|gasoline]])
  | 2.3&nbsp;L ''[[Ford HSC engine|HSO]]'' I4 (gasoline)
  | 2.0&nbsp;L [[Mazda]] ''[[Mazda diesel engines#RF|RF]]'' I4 ([[Diesel engine|diesel]])
  }}
| transmission = {{ubl
  | 3-speed ''[[Ford ATX transmission|ATX/FLC]]'' [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]
  | 4-speed ''[[Ford IB-series Transmission|IB4]]'' [[Manual transmission|manual]]
  | 5-speed ''[[Ford MTX transmission#MTX-III|MTX-III]]'' manual
  }}
| related = {{ubl | [[Ford Escort (North America)|Ford Escort / Mercury Lynx]]|[[Ford EXP]]}}
| caption = 1984-1985 Ford Tempo
}}

[[File:Ford Tempo rear (14919514953).jpg|thumb|left|Rear view of pre-facelift Tempo]]
[[File:1987 Mercury Topaz Sedan.jpg|thumb|left|1987 Mercury Topaz sedan]]
The first generation Tempo and Topaz were unveiled on the deck of the [[USS Intrepid (CV-11)|USS Intrepid]], a decommissioned aircraft carrier that had been turned into a floating museum in New York Harbor.<ref name="csm-jun1983"/> They were released on 26 May 1983 as 1984 models.<ref name="nyt-jun1983"/> An early advertisement for the car featured a Tempo sedan performing a 360 degree loop on a stunt track. The car in the ad was securely attached to a track, and was pulled through the shot rather than operating under its own power.<ref name="pm-mar1984"/>

As Ford's first downsized [[compact car]], the Tempo arrived four years after GM's compact [[General Motors X platform (1980)|X-Bodies]] in 1979 for the 1980 model years, and two and a half years after Chrysler's compact [[Chrysler K platform|K-cars]] were introduced. The four door Tempo had three windows in profile, somewhat similar to the European [[Ford Sierra]], while the four-door Topaz received a more upright C-pillar without rear quarter windows. The front of the car featured two sealed-beam halogen headlamps in chrome trimmed recessed mounts, and the grille between them featured four thin horizontal slats, swept back to allow for greater air flow into the engine compartment and over the hood.

The first generation Tempo came standard with a four-cylinder 2.3&nbsp;L gasoline engine or an optional Mazda-built 2.0&nbsp;L diesel engine. In late 1985 the four speed manual transmission was discontinued and the five-speed became standard. A slight modification was made to the five-speed transmission, moving the "reverse" position in the shift pattern from right beside first gear to the opposite bottom corner to reduce the likelihood of mistakenly selecting reverse rather than first gear during takeoff. Other changes for 1985 included a redesigned instrument panel with passenger side shelf, side window demisters, and a redesigned driver's pod with separate area for the radio. Also for 1985, the engine received a new [[Fuel injection#Throttle body injection|central fuel injection]] (CFI) system, although the carbureted version was offered in Canada until 1987.

The instrument panel featured a new, easier to read gauge layout, with all switches and controls placed within easy reach of the driver.

In early 1985,<ref name="upi-oct1984"/> the Tempo became the first production American automobile to feature a driver's side airbag as a supplemental restraint system.<ref name="mfc-jan7hist"/> In 1984, Ford entered a contract with the [[General Services Administration]] and the [[United States Department of Transportation|Department of Transportation]] to supply 5,000 airbag-equipped Tempos. Half also received a special windshield designed to minimize lacerations to passengers, and all were early recipients of the [[Automotive lighting#CHMSL|high-mounted brake lights]] that became required by law in 1986.<ref name="whp27"/>

===1986 update===
[[File:Ford Tempo -- 10-31-2009.jpg|left|thumb|1986–1987 Ford Tempo sedan]]
In October 1985, the Tempo and the Topaz received several minor changes for the 1986 model year.<ref name="autocat-876530"/> The rectangular sealed-beam halogen headlamps were replaced with new, plastic composite enclosures with a replaceable lamp. The new headlights were flush-mounted to match the redesigned front corner lights and freshly restyled grille, which more closely matched that of the new [[Ford Taurus#First generation (1986)|Taurus]] that debuted in 1986, while the Topaz received a half pseudo-lightbar grille similar to the one on the upcoming [[Mercury Sable|Sable]]. In back, the trunk and taillights were slightly restyled.

In 1986, the Tempo surpassed the [[Hyundai Pony]] to become the best selling new car in Canada.<ref name="Wards87"/> A new "LX" luxury trim level replaced the GLX. An all-wheel-drive model was added for 1987 on both 2- and 4-door. It included all the interior amenities of the LX/LS models, and the HSO engine from the Sport (detailed below). An automatic transaxle was standard, and the AWD was driver-selected with a pushbutton.

From 1985 to 1987, Ford offered the Sport GL, which included unique interior and exterior styling cues, the 2.3&nbsp;L HSO engine, alloy wheels, tachometer, and the five-speed manual transaxle with a lower (numerically higher) final drive ratio of 3.73 for quicker acceleration. It was badged simply as "GL", but was recognizable because it lacked the GL's chrome front and rear bumpers, had 14" alloy wheels and charcoal trim accents.

===Trim levels===
First generation Tempo trim levels:
* L (Entry level model)
* GL (Mid-range model. Also Sport GL)
* GLX (Luxury model. 1984 and 1985 model years only)
* LX (Luxury model. Introduced for 1986. Replaced the GLX)
* AWD (1987 model year only.)

First generation Topaz trim levels:
* L (Entry level model. 1984 model year only)
* GS (Mid-range model. Equivalent to Tempo GL)
* GS-AWD (1987 model year only)
* LS (Luxury model)
* LS-AWD (1987 model year only)
* XR5 (Sport model. 1987 model year only. Coupe only)

{{Clear}}

==Second generation (1988–1994)==
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Second generation
| image = Ford Tempo -- 07-09-2009.jpg
| model_years = 1988–1994
| engine = {{ubl
  | 2.3&nbsp;L ''[[Ford HSC engine|HSC/HSO]]'' [[Straight-four engine|I4]]
  | 3.0&nbsp;L ''[[Ford Vulcan engine|Vulcan]]'' [[V6 engine|V6]]
  }}
| transmission = {{ubl
  | 3-speed ''[[Ford ATX transmission|ATX/FLC]]'' [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]
  | 5-speed ''[[Ford MTX transmission#MTX-III|MTX-III]]'' [[Manual transmission|manual]]
  | 5-speed ''[[Ford MTX transmission#MTX-IV|MTX-IV]]'' manual
  }}
| related = {{ubl | [[Ford Escort (North America)|Ford Escort / Mercury Lynx]]|[[Ford EXP]]}}
| wheelbase = {{cvt|99.9|in|mm|0}}
| body_style = 2/4-door [[Sedan (automobile)|sedan]]
| length = {{cvt|177.0|in|mm|0}}
| weight = {{cvt|2723|lb|kg|0}}
| width = {{cvt|68.3|in|mm|0}}
| height = {{cvt|52.9|in|mm|0}}
| caption = 1988–1991 Ford Tempo GL
}}
[[File:Ford Tempo Coupe.jpg|thumb|left|1988–1991 Ford Tempo coupe]]
[[File:92-94 Mercury Topaz GS.jpg|thumb|left|1992–1994 Mercury Topaz GS sedan]]
[[File:Ford-Tempo-Coupe.jpg|thumb|left|1992–1994 Ford Tempo coupe]]

For 1988, the Tempo and Topaz sedans were redesigned, while the coupes were facelifted &mdash; in each case more resembling their Taurus and Sable counterparts. Both cars arrived in November 1987.<ref name="ebony-nov1987"/><ref name="autocat-1890080"/> The Tempo received a restyled grille with three thin horizontal chrome bars, composite flush-mounted rectangular headlamps and restyled front turn signals. The Tempo GLS, received a black grille and "D" pillar; flush mounted tail lamps and revised rear quarter window. The Topaz received a more formal, more vertical rear window, waterfall grille, more revised wheels, and solid red tail lamps. The HSO engine was standard equipment on the Mercury Topaz XR5 and LTS models.<ref name="Wards90"/>

Both the sedan and coupe received a revised instrument panels with a central gauge cluster that included a standard engine temperature gauge, and ergonomic driver controls. Fan and windshield wiper controls were mounted on rotary-style switches on either side of the instrument panel, and the HVAC controls received a new push-button control layout. Other changes included revised interior door panels. A driver's side airbag continued as an option. LX and AWD models received chrome and wood trim on the dash and doors. Topaz models featured a tachometer-equipped gauge cluster and a front center armrest as standard.

For the 1991 model year the all-wheel drive Tempo and Topaz and the Canadian market exclusive entry-level Tempo L were discontinued. For 1992, the Tempo and Topaz were mildly restyled, with the Tempo gaining body-colored side trim that replaced the black and chrome trim, as well as full body-colored bumpers. The Tempo's three bar chrome grille was replaced with a body-colored monochromatic piece, while the Topaz's chrome grille was replaced with a non-functional light-bar.

Also for 1992, the 3.0&nbsp;L Vulcan V6 engine from the Taurus and Sable was introduced as an option for the GL and LX models, and as the standard engine on the GLS. The 1992 model year was the last year of the GLS, as it and its Topaz counterpart were discontinued in 1993. This left the Tempo with only two trim level options, GL and LX. 1992 also brought a slightly redesigned gauge cluster, with a tachometer reading up to 7,000&nbsp;rpm instead of the previous 6,000&nbsp;rpm. A fuel door indicator was added to the fuel gauge as an arrow pointing to the side of the car where the fuel door was located. 1992 was the only year when a speedometer reading to 120&nbsp;mph was available in American models, and only in the GLS, XR5 and LTS trim levels; all other model years read to 85 MPH.

A revised body with eight headlamps was previewed late in 1991, and a redesigned Tempo was expected for 1993 or 1998.<ref name="pm-oct1991-3"/><ref name="pm-oct1991-2"/> The Tempo was discontinued in 1994, replaced by the Contour for model year 1995. 

===Trim levels===
Second generation Tempo trim levels:
*L (Entry level model. Discontinued in 1991)
*GL (Mid-range model)
*LX (Luxury model. Sedan only)
*AWD (Includes LX trim. Sedan only. Discontinued in 1991)
*GLS (Replaced Sport GL as the performance oriented model. Discontinued in 1992)

Second generation Topaz trim levels:
* GS (Mid-range model equivalent to the Tempo GL. Available from November 1987 to 1994)
* GS-AWD (Available from November 1987 to 1991)
* LS (Luxury model. Discontinued after 1992)
* LS-AWD (Sedan only. Available from November 1987 to 1991)
* XR5 (Sport model. Available from November 1987 to 1992. Coupe only. 3.0&nbsp;L V6 engine was standard for 1992)
* LTS ("Luxury Touring Sedan". Four-door equivalent of the XR5. Available from November 1987 to 1992)

==End of production==
Although a third-generation Tempo had been spotted testing in 1990, this was eventually scrapped in favor of replacing the car with an adapted version of the European Ford Mondeo, then late in development. By 1993 Ford had been losing money on the Tempo for a decade.<ref name="fortune-jun1993"/> While the Tempo had long been a loss leader for Ford, the incoming Contour was based on the [[Ford Mondeo|Mondeo]], one of the most expensive cars in Ford's European lineup.<ref name="fortune-jun1993"/> Ford was unsuccessful in drawing a distinction between the Tempo and Contour, and many buyers assumed that the new car would be priced the same as the old, causing some to face a large sticker shock.<ref name="digmanbook"/><ref name="ct-may1999"/>

For buyers shopping for a compact Ford, moving to the Contour came with a jump in price: the range topping 1994 Tempo LX sedan with V6 cost about $12,900, {{Inflation|US|12900|1994|2022|fmt=eq}}, while a base model 1995 Contour GL with four-cylinder engine and manual transmission was $13,990, {{Inflation|US|13990|1994|2022|fmt=eq}}.

1994 marked the last year for the ''HSC'' engine, the 2.5&nbsp;L having been dropped from the Taurus in 1991. It was also the end for the 3-speed FLC automatic transmission, with the Ford Escort and Mercury Tracer using the [[Ford F-4EAT transmission]].

The last Ford Tempo was built at Oakville Assembly on May 20, 1994. The facility was retooled to build the [[Ford Windstar]]. Kansas City Assembly and Cuautitlán Assembly became assembly points for the Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique.

==Production figures==
The Tempo was a sales success for Ford, staying one of the top ten best selling cars in the US, if not one of the top five, during its entire production run. For the introductory, extended 1984 model year (16 months long), Ford sold a total of 531,468 examples of the Tempo and Topaz combined, but this was also the nameplate's best year.<ref name="ttccna-intro"/><ref name=Wards85/> All model year production figures for the Tempo are as follows:<ref name="ttccna-yby"/>

{{Table alignment}}
{| class="wikitable defaultcenter col1left"
|-
|+First generation production<ref name=":0"/>
!
!Coupe
!Sedan
!Yearly Total
|-
|'''1984'''
|107,065
|295,149
|'''402,214'''{{efn|Model year 1984 began in 1983; about 35 percent of<br>the 1984s were built during the 1983 model year.<ref>[[#WYB85|''Ward's Automotive Yearbook 1985'']], pp. 70, 135.</ref>}}
|-
|'''1985'''
|72,311
|266,776
|'''339,087'''
|-
|'''1986'''
|69,101
|208,570
|'''277,671'''
|-
|'''1987'''
|70,164
|212,468
|'''282,632'''
|-
!Total
!318,641
!982,963
!<u>1,301,604</u>
|-
| colspan="4" | {{notelist}}
|}

{{Table alignment}}
{| class="wikitable defaultcenter col1left"
|-
|+Second generation production<ref name=":0"/>
!
!Coupe
!Sedan
!Yearly Total
|-
|'''1988'''
|49,930
|313,262
|'''363,192'''
|-
|'''1989'''
|23,719
|217,185
|'''240,904'''
|-
|'''1990'''
|8,551
|209,875
|'''218,426'''
|-
|'''1991'''
|4,876
|180,969
|'''185,845'''
|-
|'''1992'''
|35,149
|172,191
|'''207,340'''
|-
|'''1993'''
|52,129
|154,762
|'''206,891'''
|-
|'''1994'''
|32,050
|110,399
|'''142,449'''
|-
!Total
!206,404
!1,358,643
!<u>1,565,047</u>
|}

==Other markets==
===China===
During the early 1990s, in an attempt to ease trade tensions with the United States, China agreed to buy millions of dollars worth of automobiles from each of the [[Big Three (automobile manufacturers)#United States|Big Three American automakers]]; the share of the deal for Ford was worth $32 million.<ref name="nyt-jul 1992"/><ref name="cnc-jul2012"/> Along with reducing Chinese dependence on imports of Japanese automobiles, the arrangement let China keep its favored nation status with the United States (despite political tensions of the late 1980s).

In 1992, Ford began sales operations in China for the first time, introducing the Tempo alongside the Ford Taurus, Ford Crown Victoria, Ford Aerostar, and the Lincoln Town Car.<ref name="upi-jun1993"/> In total, the Chinese government purchased over 8,200 Tempos, with the initial order of 3010 1992 four-door Tempo sedans serving as the largest single fleet order ever received by Ford.<ref name="upi-jun1993"/><ref name="prn-aug1992"/> In addition of the fitment of metric-unit instrument panels, the Tempo underwent several revisions for the Chinese market, including modifications of the fuel system to accommodate leaded fuel, heavier-duty suspension, and heavier-grade wiring.<ref name="upi-jun1993"/>

The initial government fleet order was originally intended for use as taxis and tourist vehicles; all were white-colored GL-trim four-door sedans.<ref name="prn-aug1992"/> Following their importation, the Tempos remained under government ownership under official use, later sold to private owners.<ref name="cnc-jul2012"/>

===Mexico===
Ford assembled and sold two models based on the American Tempo in Mexico — the '''Ford Topaz''' and the '''Ford Ghia'''.

The cars were built in Ford's [[Cuautitlán Assembly]] plant.<ref name="mfc-cuautitlan"/> The lower level of automation at that plant translated into higher assembly costs, making a Mexican-built Ford Topaz retail for about US$400 more than a more well equipped US model with more effective pollution controls.<ref name="unc-jan2016"/>

The first to hit the Mexican market was the Ford Topaz, debuting in 1984. This car was based on the American Tempo, and was offered in both two door and four door sedan versions.<ref name="mp-aug2018"/> Like the US model, the Ford Topaz was restyled in 1988.<ref name="ml-sep2020"/>

The Ford Ghia debuted in 1991. Based on the American Mercury Topaz, this model was more luxuriously trimmed, based on the American Topaz LS. With wood grain panel doors, power antena, and 5 band stereo graphic equalizer, alloy wheels 14", similar a BBS model used by European Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Golf GTi. A 4 Cylinders 2.3&nbsp;L only available. For 1992, A 3-speed automatic transmission and V6 engine were only available.<ref name="ml-feb2020"/> Also, leather interior.

==T-Drive Tempo==
In or around 1990, a modified Tempo was used as a rolling [[testbed]] for a new powertrain configuration that Ford called "T-Drive". This system used transverse inline engines with the drive for the transmission taken off the center of the crankshaft, rather than the end.<ref name="de-tdrive"/>

The test Tempo's original transverse straight four engine and transaxle were replaced with a transversely mounted [[Overhead camshaft engine#Double overhead camshaft (DOHC)|DOHC]] [[straight-eight engine]] and a center-mounted longitudinal transaxle, making the Tempo Rear Wheel Drive. The T-Drive specification allowed for engines of 4, 6, and 8 cylinders of 2.0&nbsp;L, 3.2&nbsp;L, and 4.0&nbsp;L respectively, and the Tempo received the largest engine.<ref name="de-tdrive"/> Power output was estimated to have been in the range of {{cvt|215|–|225|hp|kW|0}}.<ref name="bs-dec2018"/> It is possible that the Tempo was chosen as it could accommodate a drive shaft and rear differential, due to the availability of the AWD model. This 8 cylinder, RWD Tempo with independent rear suspension was shown briefly and never seen again.

In 1991, the T-Drive technology was unveiled to the public as part of two [[concept cars]]; the Contour sedan and the Mystique minivan.<ref name="ps-jun1991"/> It did not go into production.

==References==
{{Reflist|refs=

<ref name="mfc-kansascity">{{cite web |url=http://media.ford.com/plant_display.cfm?plant_id=33 |title=Plant Information {{!}} Plant Name: Kansas City Assembly Plant |date= |access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120617135249/http://media.ford.com/plant_display.cfm?plant_id=33 |archive-date=17 June 2012 }}</ref>

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<ref name="wc-sep1995">{{cite web |url=https://www.wheels.ca/car-reviews/1995-ford-contour/ |title=1995 Ford Contour |last=Kenzie |first=Jim |date=9 September 1995 |website=wheels.ca |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="nyt-dec1985">{{cite news |last=Holusha |first=John |date=1 December 1985 |title=Ford puts its Future on the Line |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1985/12/01/magazine/ford-puts-its-future-on-the-line.html |work=New York Times |page=94 |location= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="csm-dec1982">{{cite web |url=https://www.csmonitor.com/1982/1223/122329.html |title=Curvy Thunderbird may forge auto style of the '80s |last=Dole |first=Charles E. |date=23 December 1982 |website=Christian Science Monitor |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="ps-mar1983">{{cite magazine |last=Dunne |first=Jim |date=March 1983 |title=Ford's front-drive challengers: Tempo/Topaz |url= |magazine=Popular Science |pages=74, 75 |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="pm-apr1983">{{cite magazine |last=Witzenburg |first=Gary |date=April 1983 |title=Driving the Ford Tempo, Topaz and All-New Thunderbird |url= |magazine=Popular Mechanics |pages=96, 97, 176, 177 |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="aw-aug2017">{{cite web |url=https://www.autoweek.com/car-life/a1827301/cut-down-engine-week-ford-hsc-i4/ |title=Cut-Down Engine of the Week: Ford HSC I4 |last=Martin |first=	Murilee |date=2 August 2017 |website=Autoweek |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="ttac-oct2010">{{cite web |url=https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2010/10/curbside-classic-ford-tempo/ |title=Curbside Classic: 1986 Ford Tempo — A Deadly Sin? |last=Niedermeyer |first=Paul |date=28 October 2010 |website=The Truth About Cars |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="sae-831009">{{cite conference |url=https://www.sae.org/publications/technical-papers/content/831009/ |title=The New Ford 2.3L High-Swirl-Combustion (HSC) Engine |last1=Lenox |first1=H. |last2=Scussel |first2=A. J. |date=1983-06-06 |publisher= |book-title=SAE Technical Paper Series |pages= |location= |conference=SAE International Passenger Car Meeting & Exposition |volume= 1 |issn=0148-7191 |doi=10.4271/831009 |id=}}</ref>

<ref name="cc-jul2019">{{cite web |url=https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/cc-cohort/cohort-outtake-1984-or-1985-ford-tempo-tempo-non-fugit/ |title=Cohort Outtake: 1984 or 1985 Ford Tempo – Tempo Non Fugit |last=Niedermeyer |first=Paul |date=8 July 2019 |website=Curbside Classics |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="csm-jun1983">{{cite web |url=https://www.csmonitor.com/1983/0603/060331.html |title=Ford goes on the offensive - with Tempo and Topaz |last=Dole |first=Charles E. |date=3 June 1983 |website=Christian Science Monitor |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="ttccna-hsc">{{cite web |url=http://www.tempotopaz.com/main/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&req=viewarticle&artid=35&page=1 |title=2.3L HSC / HSO History & Specifications |date= |access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928073029/http://www.tempotopaz.com/main/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&req=viewarticle&artid=35&page=1 |archive-date=28 September 2007 }}</ref>

<ref name="hcc-nov2020">{{cite magazine |last=Stern |first=Milton |date=November 2020 |title=Tempo/Topaz twins: Ford was looking ahead with its new compacts |url=https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/tempo-topaz-twins |magazine=Hemmings Classic Car |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="autocat-876530">{{cite web|url=https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1986/876530/ford_tempo_lx_4-door_2_3l_efi.html|title=Detailed specs review of 1986 Ford Tempo LX 4-door 2.3L EFi offered since October 1985 for North America U.S.|website=www.automobile-catalog.com|access-date=10 June 2019}}</ref>

<ref name="ct-dec1991">{{cite news |last=Mateja |first=Jim |date=8 December 1991 |title=The Drab Tempo Adds Some Power |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-1991-12-08-9104200807-story.html |work=Chicago Tribune |location= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="pm-oct1991-1">{{cite magazine |last=Weissler |first=Paul |date=October 1991 |title=Engineering In the '92s |url= |magazine=Popular Mechanics |pages=86–89 |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="ct-oct1986">{{cite news |last=Mateja |first=Jim |date=13 October 1986 |title=Four-Wheel-Drive Tempo Has A More Down-To-Earth Design |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-1986-10-13-8603170129-story.html |work=Chicago Tribune |location= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="ca-dec2016">{{cite magazine |last=Sikora II |first=Don |date= |title=Cheap Wheels: 1987-91 Ford Tempo All Wheel Drive |url=https://blog.consumerguide.com/1987-91-ford-tempo-all-wheel-drive/ |magazine=Collectible Automobile |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="ttac-apr2020">{{cite web |url=https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2020/04/rare-rides-the-1989-ford-tempo-luxurious-and-all-wheel-drive/ |title=Rare Rides: The 1989 Ford Tempo – Luxurious and All-wheel Drive |last=Lewis |first=Corey |date=22 April 2020 |website=The Truth About Cars |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="tmc-aug1987">{{cite news |last=Kucinski |first=Leonard |date=8 August 1987 |title=Ford Tempo AWD — Latest Four-Wheel-Drive Entry Road Test |url=https://www.mcall.com/news/mc-xpm-1987-08-08-2590707-story.html |work=The Morning Call |location= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="pcs-1991">{{cite web |url=http://www.tempotopaz.com/pdf/1991topaz.pdf |title=1991 Model Topaz — Product Change Summary |date=February 1990 |access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102094828fw_/http://www.tempotopaz.com/pdf/1991topaz.pdf |archive-date=2 January 2015 }}</ref>

<ref name="nyt-jun1983">{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s)/no by-line.--> |date=4 June 1983 |title=Late May Car Sales Rose 17.7% |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1983/06/04/business/late-may-car-sales-rose-17.7.html |work=New York Times |location= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="pm-mar1984">{{cite magazine |last=Ross |first=Daniel Charles |date=March 1984 |title=Detroit Listening Post {{!}} The ad game Tempo |url= |magazine=Popular Mechanics |page=14 |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="upi-oct1984">{{cite web|url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1984/10/05/Ford-offering-airbags-to-fleet-buyers/3065846903749/|title=Ford offering airbags to fleet buyers|website=UPI|access-date=10 June 2019}}</ref>

<ref name="mfc-jan7hist">{{cite web|url=http://media.ford.com/newsroom/release_display.cfm?release=14062 |title=Today in Ford History: Jan. 7 |work=Media.Ford.com |date=2007-01-07 |access-date=2007-03-03 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040917172037/http://media.ford.com/newsroom/release_display.cfm?release=14062 |archive-date=September 17, 2004 }}</ref>

<ref name="whp27">{{cite journal | journal = [[Wheels (magazine)|Wheels]] | ref = Wh0684 | title = Fords get an air-bagging | first = Ron | last = Wakefield | page = 27 | date = June 1984 | publisher = Murray Publishers | location = Sydney, Australia }}</ref>

<ref name=Wards85>{{cite book | ref = WYB85 | title=Ward's Automotive Yearbook 1985 |publisher=Ward's Communications, Inc | location = Detroit, MI |editor-last = Stark | editor-first = Harry A. | volume = 47 | date = 1985 | page = 198 | isbn = ((0910589005)) }}</ref>

<ref name="Wards87">{{cite book | ref = WYB87 | title=Ward's Automotive Yearbook 1987 |publisher=Ward's Communications, Inc | location = Detroit, MI |editor-last = Stark | editor-first = Harry A. | volume = 49 | date = 1987 | page = 156 | isbn = ((0910589007)) }}</ref>

<ref name="ebony-nov1987">{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=u8wDAAAAMBAJ&q=mercury+topaz+1988+%22november+1987%22&pg=PA170|title=Cars for 1988 | magazine = Ebony |page=171 |volume=XLIII |number=1 | date=1 November 1987 |publisher=Johnson Publishing Company |via=Google Books }}</ref>

<ref name="autocat-1890080">{{cite web|url=https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1988/1890080/mercury_topaz_lts.html|title=Detailed specs review of 1988 Mercury Topaz LS Sport offered since November 1987 for North America U.S.|website=www.automobile-catalog.com|access-date=10 June 2019}}</ref>

<ref name="Wards90">{{cite book |ref=WYB90 |title=Ward's Automotive Yearbook 1990 |publisher=Ward's Communications, Inc |location=Detroit, MI |editor-last1=Stark |editor-first1=Harry A. |editor-last2=Bush |editor-first2=James W. |volume=52 |date=1990 |page=91 |isbn=((0910589010))}}</ref>

<ref name="pm-oct1991-3">{{cite magazine |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=October 1991 |title=Yankee Chic |url= |magazine=Popular Mechanics |pages=71–85 |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="pm-oct1991-2">{{cite magazine |last=Dunne |first=Jim |date=October 1991 |title=…And In '93 And '94 |url= |magazine=Popular Mechanics |pages=90, 91 |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="upi-jun1993">{{cite news |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=21 June 1993 |title=U.S. automaker puts Ford in China's future |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/06/21/US-automaker-puts-Ford-in-Chinas-future/8299740635200/ |work=UPI Archive |location= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="nyt-jul 1992">{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s)/no by-line.--> |date=29 July 1992 |title=Company News; China Agrees to Buy Vehicles from the Big Three |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/07/29/business/company-news-china-agrees-to-buy-vehicles-from-the-big-three.html |work=New York Times |location= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="cnc-jul2012">{{cite web |url=https://carnewschina.com/2012/07/13/spotted-in-china-ford-tempo-and-a-history-how-it-got-there/ |title=Spotted in China: Ford Tempo, and a History how it got there |last=de Feijter |first=Tycho |date=13 July 2012 |website=CarNewsChina.com |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="prn-aug1992">{{cite news |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=26 August 1992 |title=Ford Exports Increase 33 Percent |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/FORD+EXPORTS+INCREASE+33+PERCENT-a012562611 |url-status= |work=PR Newswire |location= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160401021630/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/FORD+EXPORTS+INCREASE+33+PERCENT-a012562611 |archive-date=1 April 2016 |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="mfc-cuautitlan">{{cite web |url=http://media.ford.com/facilities/plant_display.cfm?plant_id=140 |title=Plant Information {{!}} Plant Name: Cuautitlan Assembly Plant |date= |access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080403113307/http://media.ford.com/facilities/plant_display.cfm?plant_id=140 |archive-date=3 April 2008 }}</ref>

<ref name="unc-jan2016">{{citation |last=Conway |first=Patrick |date=January 2016 |title=Shifting Gears: Ford Motor Company in Mexico (A): The Dilemma |url=https://pconway.web.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/11310/2016/01/forda.pdf | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211204184412/https://pconway.web.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/11310/2016/01/forda.pdf | archive-date = 2021-12-04 | publisher = University of North Carolina }}</ref>

<ref name="mp-aug2018">{{cite web |url=https://www.motorpasion.com.mx/ford/ford-topaz-datos-hsitoria-fotos-recuerdo |title=Ford Topaz: recordando a uno de los sedanes favoritos de los 80 y 90 |trans-title=Ford Topaz: remembering one of the favorite sedans of the '80s and '90s |language=es |last=Juárez |first=Mau |date=20 August 2018 |website= |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="ml-sep2020">{{cite web |url=https://memolira.com/noticias/ford-topaz-el-exitazo-de-la-gama-media/ |title=Ford Topaz: el exitazo de la gama media |trans-title=Ford Topaz: the smash hit of the mid-range |language=es |last=Gutiérrez |first=Alberto |date=24 September 2020 |website=Memo Lira |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="ml-feb2020">{{cite web |url=https://memolira.com/noticias/ford-ghia-el-lujo-como-sinonimo/ |title=Ford Ghia: el lujo como sinónimo |trans-title=Ford Ghia: luxury as a synonym |language=es |last=Gutiérrez |first=Alberto |date=27 February 2020 |website=Memo Lira |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="fortune-jun1993">{{cite magazine |last=Taylor III |first=Alex |date=28 June 1993 |title=Ford's $6 Billion Baby |url=https://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/1993/06/28/78013/ |magazine=Fortune |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="ct-may1999">{{cite news |last=Mateja |first=Jim |date=7 May 1999 |title=Ford's Focus: Smooth Road After Contour |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-1999-05-07-9905070266-story.html |work=Chicago Tribune |location= |access-date=}}</ref>

<ref name="ttccna-intro">{{cite web |url=http://www.tempotopaz.com/main/index.php?name=Sections&req=viewarticle&artid=18&page=1 |title=1984 - Tempo / Topaz Introduction |date= |access-date= |website=Tempo Topaz Car Club of North America |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120321070024/http://www.tempotopaz.com/main/index.php?name=Sections&req=viewarticle&artid=18&page=1 |archive-date=21 March 2012 }}</ref>

<ref name="ttccna-yby">{{cite web |url=http://www.tempotopaz.com/main/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&req=listarticles&secid=2 |title=Section: History : Year by Year |date= |access-date= |website=Tempo Topaz Car Club of North America |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130821132149/http://www.tempotopaz.com/main/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&req=listarticles&secid=2 |archive-date=21 August 2013 }}</ref>

<ref name=":0">{{Cite book |last1=Flammang |first1=James M. |last2=Kowalke |first2=Ron |url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/43301709 |title=Standard catalog of American cars, 1976-1999 |date=1999 |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=0-87341-755-0 |edition=3rd |location=Iola, WI |oclc=43301709}}</ref>

<ref name="de-tdrive">{{cite web |url=http://www.drivingenthusiast.net/sec-ford/FMC-engines/t-drive/default.htm |title=Ford T-Drive |author=<!--Not stated--> |date= |website=DrivingEnthusiast |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="bs-dec2018">{{cite web |url=https://bangshift.com/general-news/car-features/ford-car-features/inline-eight-ford-tempo-happened-check-freak/ |title=Best of 2018: An Inline-Eight Ford Tempo? That Happened! Check This Freak Out! |last=McTaggart |first=Bryan |date=24 December 2018 |website=BangShift.com |publisher= |access-date= }}</ref>

<ref name="ps-jun1991">{{cite magazine |last=McCosh |first=Dan |date=June 1991 |title=Back To The Future |url= |magazine=Popular Science |pages=68–71 |location= |publisher= |access-date=}}</ref>

}}

==Further reading==
* ''Car and Driver'', March 1983, Volume 28, Number 9
* ''Motor Trend'', March 1983
* ''Road & Track'', April 1983
* ''Road & Track'', November 1983, Volume 35, Number 3

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{Commons category|Mercury Topaz}}
*{{cite web |url=http://www.tempotopaz.com/ |title=Tempo Topaz Car Club of America |date= |access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140707081518/http://www.tempotopaz.com/ |archive-date=7 July 2014 }}
*{{cite web |url=http://www.ttowners.com |title=Tempo and Topaz Owner Association |date= |access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204042249/http://ttowners.com/ |archive-date=4 December 2013 }}
*{{cite web |url=http://www.ford-tempo.zoomshare.com |title=Ford Tempo Central |date= |access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121222004750/http://www.ford-tempo.zoomshare.com/ |archive-date=22 December 2012 }}
*{{cite web|author=<!--Not stated--> |url=http://auto.howstuffworks.com/ford17.htm |title=How Ford Works {{!}} Ford Tempo and Taurus |website=HowStuffWorks |date=2007-06-11 |access-date=2010-12-03}}

{{Modern North American Ford vehicles}}
{{Mercury Timeline}}
{{Ford vehicles}}
{{Mercury Vehicles}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Ford vehicles|Tempo]]
[[Category:Front-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[Category:All-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Compact cars]]
[[Category:Coupés]]
[[Category:Sedans]]
[[Category:Cars introduced in 1983]]
[[Category:Cars discontinued in 1994]]
[[Category:1990s cars]]
[[Category:Motor vehicles manufactured in the United States]]
[[Category:Motor vehicles manufactured in Canada]]