I did not imply that there was no Durango. I was making the point that the base vehicle was a conversion from a base stock vehicle. In any event, the "test market vehicle" is/was a conversion. Does not matter if Ford Motor Company did the conversion or if it was outsourced, there would be no specific difference between a Fairmont or Durango (on record) because it is still a Fairmont until the model "Durango" is in full production and designated a unique production model number set.

On the same note, the production of "INDY 500" cars was not considered a model, although they could be ordered and configured according to customer demand until the limit was reached and the "limited" production had been satisfied. True production numbers of "INDY 500" cars is an extrapulation from the base model defined by the options and numerical sequence of production. They really did exist, but not for everyone.

 

Collectible AUtomobile did a featrure on the Durango a few years ago. The man who built these was approved by Ford to construct the vehicles - sort of like Carroll Shelby did wityh Mustangs - he took new Fairmonts and converted them. As I recall, everything was in place to go into production when the man became ill and the project, unfortunately was canned. I seem to recall that very few were built but those that were built sold quickly and there was a waiting list of buyers. Were it not for health issues, it seems that these would have been produced in substantial numbers. They are a really cute rig but not a lot of people know about them. I have the edition of Collectible AUtomobile yet but it is packed away in storage for ther next few months. I bought that issue specifically because of that article.

 

I'm still rolling on the floor in reaction to the "Fairmont hits the collector scene" comment!

 

i would shure like to see a pic of this thing.as much of a fordnut as i am ive never herd of this either

 

1981 Ford Durango "pickup."

 

NASTY!!!!!! sorry if i offend anyone but that's Just wrong the car truck is not attractive in the least.

 

Let's just say it sure ain't got the lines of a 59 Chevy El Camino, inch off the ground and in black.

 

Well, with all due respect, I disagree with you on the little Durango not being attractive. "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder", as they say and in my ever to be humble opinion, the lines are quite pleasing and I personally think one of those would make an awesome parts chaser or swap meet rig - or even daily driver. I also agree that it has not got the class of a '59 El Camino - I own six of those and again, in my humble opinion, they are unequalled in beauty and grace when it comes to a Ranchero/El Camino style rig. But again, that is just my opinion.

 

with it being partly fiberglass has to make it light and with a 351W would make it a quick little daily driver that isn't seen everyday. I like it too bad I never seen one here in NC.

 

I have seen a couple of these around SoCal. Based on the Futura body, I thought they were built by a contractor. A 351W would be a nice engine choice, however the "W" was not an option in California at that time. Engine options were: 2.3l 4 cyl, 200 cu in I6, 255 or 302 V8.
I think it had nice lines and, with the V8, would be a good alternative to El Camino.
There is one currently for sale in the North East. I wonder what one is worth, besides "what someone would pay".

 

 

I have never heard of this car till now and I agree with stosh. But a simple google search brought me to this site:

1981 Ford Durango For Sale

I hope it helps anyone who wants to see it. I really can not decide if I like it or not.

 

I was just looking for an excuse to use THAT picture.....



Google is your friend. Use it when ever you can. Just like most of my "friends".

 

I certainly wouldn't buy one.
I'm too attached to my trucks.

 

I never really have liked the El Camino style vehicles. But I do recogize there place in history.