INFO GUIDE: 1982 - 1984 Ford Fairmont Ghia XE Sedan (ESP Option)

This guide covers both the V8 and 6-cylinder model European Sports Pack (ESP) optioned cars in the Ford XE range, all of which were based on the Fairmont Ghia. Please follow this link for information on the earlier XD series Falcon and Fairmont Ghia ESP. Classic Register also maintains a register of XE Ghia ESP cars here.

The ESP optioned cars generally demand far higher prices above others in the Ford XE range, and it is therefore important to understand the features to look for when confirming the originality of a vehicle. This guide provides detailed descriptions of the XE ESP features, including exterior, interior features, mechanical features and important engine and model code information.

The ESP was an option on the XE Fairmont Ghia, and it is worth noting that the only way to confirm a vehicle’s authenticity with certainty is to enquire through Ford, and quote the vehicle’s unique chassis number. Ford will be able to confirm whether the vehicle was an ESP optioned car (option 54) from the vehicle’s original order sheet. We do not recommend purchasing a vehicle without first making this enquiry. As that is the only means of verification carrying certainty, this guide has been produced to provide details of the features and specifications applicable to genuine ESP cars in order to confirm a vehicle's originality.

Production numbers and period of manufacture:

The XE ESP was produced from March 1982 – October 1984, with the model availability breakdown provided in the table below:

• V8 production stopped in November 1984 (the last official XE V8 car produced being a 302CI Fairmont Ghia ESP).
• As noted in the table, the number of 6-cylinder vehicles has been based on estimates provided by several enthusiasts, however, there is no official manufacturing data to reference.
• There is believed to be at least one 351CI car that was factory fitted with an automatic transmission (a special order car). Also, several ESPs were turbocharged aftermarket (whilst maintaining Ford warranty and original compliance) by companies such as Mike Vine Turbos. Those original cars with original compliance and warranty are particularly rare. 

Please note, this guide has been written based on a variety of online sources and enthusiast input. You should not rely on this guide to make any purchasing decision and we make no representation that all information is accurate. You should always seek independent professional advice when looking to purchase a unique car. If you have additional information, photographs or corrections you believe need to be made to this page, please contact us by clicking the button at the top of this page, or comment below.