1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
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1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
I already had this C&P'ed for posting somewhere else so I figured I might as well share it here for your entertai... I mean, enjoyment
For no other reason other than I'm a goddamned lunatic, I now own a 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T!
"I'm sorry, a what?" I can hear you all saying...
... a 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T!
In many Eastern countries, the Mazda Bongo van proved to be incredibly popular, quickly gaining a reputation for being dependable and durable. Many other automakers wanted to share in Mazda's success, including Nissan, Mitsubishi, Kia, and Ford, and, long story short, one badged as a Ford Spectron from Japan has made its way into my driveway!
Because it's actually built by Mazda, it has a RF 2.0L turbodiesel engine making a whole 71hp and sending it to the rear wheels (some versions were 4WD) through a 5-speed manual transmission.
Oddly, the Mazda RF diesel engine did make an appearance in a few USDM cars, although they have been virtually wiped out of existence:
The 1984-1985 Mazda 626 diesel
The 1984-1986 Ford Tempo and Escort as well as the Mercury Topaz and Lynx
Parts will be a challenge, but I have over 15 years of parts experience as well as global contacts for Japanese parts... and besides, it has just over 30k kilometers on it, which equates to about 18k miles!
So I hope to have many more years of silly adventures with it!
Don't worry, the B4 RSK hasn't gone anywhere, she's running just fine!
For no other reason other than I'm a goddamned lunatic, I now own a 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T!
"I'm sorry, a what?" I can hear you all saying...
... a 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T!
In many Eastern countries, the Mazda Bongo van proved to be incredibly popular, quickly gaining a reputation for being dependable and durable. Many other automakers wanted to share in Mazda's success, including Nissan, Mitsubishi, Kia, and Ford, and, long story short, one badged as a Ford Spectron from Japan has made its way into my driveway!
Because it's actually built by Mazda, it has a RF 2.0L turbodiesel engine making a whole 71hp and sending it to the rear wheels (some versions were 4WD) through a 5-speed manual transmission.
Oddly, the Mazda RF diesel engine did make an appearance in a few USDM cars, although they have been virtually wiped out of existence:
The 1984-1985 Mazda 626 diesel
The 1984-1986 Ford Tempo and Escort as well as the Mercury Topaz and Lynx
Parts will be a challenge, but I have over 15 years of parts experience as well as global contacts for Japanese parts... and besides, it has just over 30k kilometers on it, which equates to about 18k miles!
So I hope to have many more years of silly adventures with it!
Don't worry, the B4 RSK hasn't gone anywhere, she's running just fine!
2000 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
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Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
Way cooler than a Chevrolet Forester!
1992 Legacy SS 5mt, build in progress
Josh Colombo wrote: ↑Mon Jan 14, 2002 10:23 am Wait....I'm confused now.
Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
But does it have AC?
Josh
surrealmirage.com/subaru
1990 Legacy (AWD, 6MT, & EJ22T Swap)
2020 Outback Limted XT
If you need to get a hold of me please email me rather then pm
surrealmirage.com/subaru
1990 Legacy (AWD, 6MT, & EJ22T Swap)
2020 Outback Limted XT
If you need to get a hold of me please email me rather then pm
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- quasi-mod-o
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Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
Not only does it have A/C, but it has working A/C, front and rear, that's factory R134A!Legacy777 wrote:But does it have AC?
2000 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
Sweet!DerFahrer wrote:Not only does it have A/C, but it has working A/C, front and rear, that's factory R134A!
Josh
surrealmirage.com/subaru
1990 Legacy (AWD, 6MT, & EJ22T Swap)
2020 Outback Limted XT
If you need to get a hold of me please email me rather then pm
surrealmirage.com/subaru
1990 Legacy (AWD, 6MT, & EJ22T Swap)
2020 Outback Limted XT
If you need to get a hold of me please email me rather then pm
Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
Only working 'Ford' AC from '93, I believe....(wasn't part of the US "Ford Quality is Job 1" campaign).DerFahrer wrote:Not only does it have A/C, but it has working A/C, front and rear, that's factory R134A!Legacy777 wrote:But does it have AC?
Nice Rig...there are many of these older 'JDM' versions which are a tempting purchase as a minimalist camper van.
In your travels are there any models to avoid? Mitsu Delica seems common on some JDM import sites. Such as those in Vancouver, BC.
Thanks,
Td
Turbo Subies:
'87 GL-10 Turbo - SOLD
'90 BJ EJ22T/DOHC & 5speed swap - SOLD
'04 FXT, Forged internals, VF39, STI TMIC, Cobb AP- SOLD
'93 Legacy SS - 5-speed, SOLD :-(
'02 WRX -SOLD
'96 BD-turbo'd-SOLD
'98 SF - NA-T
'87 GL-10 Turbo - SOLD
'90 BJ EJ22T/DOHC & 5speed swap - SOLD
'04 FXT, Forged internals, VF39, STI TMIC, Cobb AP- SOLD
'93 Legacy SS - 5-speed, SOLD :-(
'02 WRX -SOLD
'96 BD-turbo'd-SOLD
'98 SF - NA-T
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- quasi-mod-o
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Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
Honestly, in my experience, the two major things to watch for when shopping for 25-year Japanese imports are rust and previous accident damage/repair. It's surprisingly hard to find a JDM car that has not had at least one minor fender bender in its life.
Other than that, it's up to your personal preference. It has become apparent to me that the Japanese save their best for themselves, so virtually nothing from Japan from the late 80s or early 90s for their home market is junk, provided it's been reasonably well maintained. Delicas are great; I've driven one, and there is a beastly looking white 4WD one here in town. I've not personally experienced HiAces or TownAces, but considering how indestructible they were for the USDM market, I can only imagine how reliable they must be in JDM guise. And, aside from a lower radiator hose leak (which I have parts on the way to fix as we speak) and a fallen headliner, the Spectron has proven trouble-free for the past 2,000 kms. *knocks heavily on wood*
Other than that, it's up to your personal preference. It has become apparent to me that the Japanese save their best for themselves, so virtually nothing from Japan from the late 80s or early 90s for their home market is junk, provided it's been reasonably well maintained. Delicas are great; I've driven one, and there is a beastly looking white 4WD one here in town. I've not personally experienced HiAces or TownAces, but considering how indestructible they were for the USDM market, I can only imagine how reliable they must be in JDM guise. And, aside from a lower radiator hose leak (which I have parts on the way to fix as we speak) and a fallen headliner, the Spectron has proven trouble-free for the past 2,000 kms. *knocks heavily on wood*
2000 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
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- quasi-mod-o
- Posts: 6000
- Joined: Thu Dec 05, 2002 7:06 pm
- Location: Tampa, FL
Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
I did a walkaround video of the Spectron... thought you guys might like to see it
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVvgkproyTg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVvgkproyTg
2000 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
-
- quasi-mod-o
- Posts: 6000
- Joined: Thu Dec 05, 2002 7:06 pm
- Location: Tampa, FL
Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
Well, since we're all stuck at home (I'm stuck home and laid off, no less ) thanks to the corona virus, I figured I'd post a couple recent pics of the Spectron with the new wheels and wheel covers! It's shocking that it's been a year already since I got it.
I don't think a style of wheel or wheel cover has ever worked so well with the overall design of a vehicle before.
Can anyone guess what the wheel covers are from? (those of you who are friends with me on Facebook already know and aren't allowed to play )
I don't think a style of wheel or wheel cover has ever worked so well with the overall design of a vehicle before.
Can anyone guess what the wheel covers are from? (those of you who are friends with me on Facebook already know and aren't allowed to play )
2000 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
Wheel covers= Nissan Pulsar? I haven't googled it yet.
Wait....a real Ford? Like a Mercury LN7? But you're pretty JDM, so I'd stick w/something from Japan.
Edit: I should've known....now I do.
Wait....a real Ford? Like a Mercury LN7? But you're pretty JDM, so I'd stick w/something from Japan.
Edit: I should've known....now I do.
Last edited by wtdash on Sun Mar 22, 2020 5:48 am, edited 1 time in total.
Turbo Subies:
'87 GL-10 Turbo - SOLD
'90 BJ EJ22T/DOHC & 5speed swap - SOLD
'04 FXT, Forged internals, VF39, STI TMIC, Cobb AP- SOLD
'93 Legacy SS - 5-speed, SOLD :-(
'02 WRX -SOLD
'96 BD-turbo'd-SOLD
'98 SF - NA-T
'87 GL-10 Turbo - SOLD
'90 BJ EJ22T/DOHC & 5speed swap - SOLD
'04 FXT, Forged internals, VF39, STI TMIC, Cobb AP- SOLD
'93 Legacy SS - 5-speed, SOLD :-(
'02 WRX -SOLD
'96 BD-turbo'd-SOLD
'98 SF - NA-T
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Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
No EJ swap planned for it...this thing is beyond jdm retro! Thanks for the update.
1991 Legacy SS 5-Speed
1999 Impreza 2.5RS Coupe
1999 Impreza 2.5RS Coupe
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Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
Everyone give up?
They're from a 1983 Ford Mustang!
These wheel covers only came on 1983 (and apparently very few 1984) Fox-body Mustangs, mostly the base models.
I've managed to track down a complete set and I even bought the last brand-new NOS OEM Ford one left on earth!
They're from a 1983 Ford Mustang!
These wheel covers only came on 1983 (and apparently very few 1984) Fox-body Mustangs, mostly the base models.
I've managed to track down a complete set and I even bought the last brand-new NOS OEM Ford one left on earth!
2000 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
What? I thought they were from a Leone/Loyale? But I obviously didn't look close enough.
Turbo Subies:
'87 GL-10 Turbo - SOLD
'90 BJ EJ22T/DOHC & 5speed swap - SOLD
'04 FXT, Forged internals, VF39, STI TMIC, Cobb AP- SOLD
'93 Legacy SS - 5-speed, SOLD :-(
'02 WRX -SOLD
'96 BD-turbo'd-SOLD
'98 SF - NA-T
'87 GL-10 Turbo - SOLD
'90 BJ EJ22T/DOHC & 5speed swap - SOLD
'04 FXT, Forged internals, VF39, STI TMIC, Cobb AP- SOLD
'93 Legacy SS - 5-speed, SOLD :-(
'02 WRX -SOLD
'96 BD-turbo'd-SOLD
'98 SF - NA-T
-
- quasi-mod-o
- Posts: 6000
- Joined: Thu Dec 05, 2002 7:06 pm
- Location: Tampa, FL
Re: 1993 Ford Spectron XL-T
I was absolutely going for the same style though!
2000 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
"Der Wahnsinn ist nur eine schmale Brücke/die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb"
*Formerly DerFahrer*
@entirelyturbo on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok