The first generation Ford Courier was introduced for the 1972 model year and sold for a little over $3,000 USD (equivalent to $17,969 in 2018) when introduced. The Courier was manufactured by Mazda (Toyo Kogyo), and imported and sold by Ford Motor Company as a response to the unforeseen popularity of the small Toyota and Nissan (Datsun) pickups.
1972-1976 Ford Courier Specifications
Badging:
Badging was changed several times in the first generation of the series.
- In 1972, the tailgate read “Ford Courier” in large, raised letters; there was a small “Courier” badge on the front of the hood.
- From 1973 until 1976, the hood badging read “Ford”. In 1973, the tailgate read “Courier” in large letters, with a small “Ford” badge on the upper left.
- In 1974, it read “Ford” in large letters, with a small “Courier” badge on the lower right.
- In 1976, the cab was lengthened by 3 inches (76 mm) and extra trim was added to the grille.
Engine & Transmission Specifications:
- Engine: 1.8L (1800cc) 4-Cylinder (Overhead Cam)
- Compression: 8.6 to 1
- Horsepower: 74-horsepower (55 kW) at 5,070 rpm
- Torque: 92 lbf⋅ft (125 N⋅m) at 3,500 rpm
- Fuel Capacity: 11.9 gallons (electric pump)
- Axle Ratio: 4.11
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
- 1st: 4.02
- 2nd: 2.40
- 3rd: 1.51
- 4th: 1.00
- Reverse: 4.02
- Clutch Diameter: 8.46 Inch (Hydraulic Actuation)
- 5-Speed manual available in 1976
- 3-speed automatic optional
Weights & Dimensions:
- GVW: 3,915 lbs
- Curb Weight: 2,515 lbs
- Payload: 1,400 lbs
- Length: 172-inches
- Width: 63-inches
- Wheelbase: 104.4-inches
- Track Width: 51.2-inches
- Height: 61.6-inches
- Bed Length: 74.5-inches
- Bed Width: 62.2-inches
- Bed Width Between Wheelwells: 38.6-inches
1977-1982 Ford Courier Specifications
Front disc brakes were added in 1977.
In 1979, the base model engine was increased in size to 2.0-liters (120.1 CID).
Power steering was added in 1982.
Engine & Transmission Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0L (120.1 CID) (1979-1982)
- Horsepower: 77-horsepower @ 4300 RPM
- Torque: 109 ft-lbs at 2400 RPM
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
- Fuel Capacity: 14.8-gallons (short wheel base) 17.4-gallons (long wheel base)
- 2.3-liter engine optional (88-Horsepower 119 lb⋅ft Torque) (same engine used in the Ford Pinto and Mustang II)
- The Ford Courier was never offered with a diesel engine.
Weights & Dimensions:
- GVWR: 4,100 lbs
- Suspension Payload: 1,400 lbs
- Max Trailer Weight: 2,000 lbs
- Gross Combined Weight: 5,000 lbs
- Length: 177.9-inches (6-foot box) 189.4-inches (7-foot box)
- Width: 63-inches
- Wheelbase: 106.9-inches (6-foot box) 112.8-inches (7-foot box)
- Height: 61.5-inches
- Bed Width: 61.4-inches
- Bed Width Between Wheelwells: 38.6-inches
About The Author
Growing up, my father always believed that every family needed a truck—there’s just something about having a vehicle capable of hauling anything at a moment’s notice. That philosophy stuck with me, and it’s been the foundation of my lifelong passion for Ford trucks.
While I’m best known for my work with Ford Rangers, I’ve owned a wide variety of Ford trucks over the years—including F-150s, F-250s, F-350s, and even larger rigs like the Ford Excursion, Ford Expedition, and a 1982 Ford Econoline Sportsmobile camper van. I’ve used these vehicles for everything from family transportation to towing car trailers and campers, and each one has fueled my love for Ford’s versatility and durability.
I especially enjoy the styling of 1970s and 1980s Ford trucks—the bold designs, rugged presence, and classic charm are timeless. Sharing my passion for Ford trucks, vans, and SUVs with other enthusiasts online brings me a great deal of joy, and it’s why I created Blue Oval Trucks.
This website is dedicated to helping Ford truck enthusiasts explore, learn about, and celebrate these incredible vehicles. While I share my expertise and experiences here, Blue Oval Trucks is an independent enthusiast site and is not affiliated with Ford Motor Company.