13k Original Miles: 1978 Ford Granada

I typically wouldn’t give a 1978 Ford Granada more than a passing glance. It won’t find its way to the top of a list of the world’s most desirable classics, and many Granadas from this era long ago made their final journey to the scrapyard. However, there is an exception to every rule, as demonstrated by our featured Granada. It presents exceptionally well, and with only 13,454 miles showing on its odometer, that is unsurprising. It isn’t loaded with factory options, but those chosen by the first owner will provide a comfortable motoring experience. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Jack M. for spotting the Ford listed here on Hemmings in Addison, Illinois. The seller set their price for this spotless survivor at $14,994.

When Ford began developing the Granada, it planned to market it as a replacement for the Maverick. However, with the early-1970s energy crisis, the Maverick remained on sale, and the Granada hit the market in 1975. The company positioned it as a premium model between the Maverick and the Torino. The First Generation remained on sale until the end of 1980, while our featured car left the line in 1978. Finished in Gold with a Parchment vinyl top, its presentation is superb. There are no apparent cosmetic shortcomings in the seller’s comprehensive image gallery, and the underside shots seemingly confirm its rust-free status. The trim and glass are as spotless as the rest of the exterior, and the Deluxe wheel covers are perfect.

Thankfully, the first owner wielded their pen on the Order Form in 1978, ordering this Granada with the range-topping 302ci V8. It is disappointing that they didn’t also select the four-speed manual transmission. Still, the combination of a three-speed automatic, power steering, and power front disc brakes should provide an effortless driving experience. Don’t expect the Granada to be fast, because the V8 produces a modest 139hp and 250 ft/lbs of torque. However, performance would have felt quite competent during the Malaise Era. The mileage claim must be taken at face value in the potential absence of documentary evidence, although the car’s presentation makes the figure plausible. The listing indicates that the Ford is a turnkey proposition, allowing the buyer to indulge in immediate classic motoring gratification.

When a seller doesn’t provide evidence to confirm low-mileage claims, it is often worth scrutinizing the car’s interior for signs that it has covered more miles than stated. Finding fault with this Granada’s interior is virtually impossible, and the fact that it retains several factory-applied stickers that would typically have disappeared is reassuring. The cloth and vinyl upholstered surfaces look excellent, with no visible wear on the front seat. The back seat looks perfect, and the carpet, particularly below the driver’s feet, is spotless. The faux timber isn’t faded or worn, and neither is the wheel. Creature comforts include air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM stereo radio.

This 1978 Ford Granada presents superbly, and if the odometer reading is verified as genuine, there could be very few examples prowling the streets with similar mileage. Its condition is well above average, which is appropriate given the price is far higher than the market average. Some new cars are marketed as niche models, and this Granada shares the same quality in the classic world. While vehicles like First Generation Mustangs generate significant interest, this Granada will appeal to a smaller pool of potential buyers. What it does graphically demonstrate is that even the most “pedestrian” vehicle can stand out if the overall condition is good enough. Will that equate to sales success? Only time will tell.