1980 Ford Granada Altair (Ghia)

In the 1980s, GHIA continued as a prestige carrozzeria. Its Granada Altair project was dignified in its simplicity, while the AvantGarde and, in particular, The Brezza (both Escort-based) were delightful compact coupes.

AUTO LEMON

Ford's Italian Granada Altair has a super-slippery body to reduce wind drag. It has an impact-absorbing bumper and deep spoiler up front. Free duct channel engine-cooling air.

Popular Science, Jun 1980

Built on a Ford Granada chassis extended by two inches in length, three inches in height, and four inches in width, the Altair was a four-door future family car capable of seating five people. The car's sharp front end and smooth lines aided the low drag coefficient of 0.35. The four headlights and two auxiliary lights were placed behind a transparent bronze-tinted plastic shield. The bronze-tinted plexiglass line running the length of the car provided increased visibility and was used to recess the door handles and air extraction vents for air conditioning. Impact-absorbent bumpers were used front and rear. The mirrors and single windshield wiper were controlled electrically. It was powered by the Ford Granada's 2.8-liter fuel-injected V6 engine. It also featured independent front and rear suspension, low-profile tires, and a stereo sound system.

Concept Car Central