Composite headlights with replaceable bulbs were legalized for the first time since 1940 in the US allowing for aerodynamic and stylish headlight assemblies. The first car to take advantage was the replacement for the Cardinal/Cortina, the Tempo/Sierra. The new car was more spacious thanks to a longer wheelbase and a transverse engine setup but sold below expectations at first due to the controversial styling.
The Granada/Torino was renamed as the LTD and restyled with a new streamlined body. The full sized LTD was renamed as the Crown Victoria. Despite the stylish new look, the car was sitting on a dated rear wheel drive platform even as its competitors, the Chevrolet Celebrity and Dodge Aries, had moved to front wheel drive. It became clear that Ford needed a new midsized car.
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The Thunderbird gained stylish and aerodynamic styling helping boost sales.
The Mazda-based Courier was replaced by the Ranger light pickup truck. The compact Bronco was revived as Bronco II.