The Ford Granada 2.8 Ghia X

If you were looking for the ultimate blend of executive luxury and V6 power in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Ford Granada 2.8 Ghia X was the car to have. Whether you were a company director, worked for the government or were just someone who wanted to cruise around town in comfort and style, this was the business-class saloon of its time.

Let’s take a look at what made the Granada 2.8 Ghia X such a standout model, and why it still turns heads today!

A little history about the Ford Granada

Ford introduced the Granada in 1972 as its flagship executive saloon for the European market, replacing the Zodiac and Consul models. Built to compete with the likes of the Rover SD1 and BMW 5 Series, the Granada offered big-car comfort but without the premium price tag.

By 1977, Ford launched the second-generation Granada (Mk2), a more refined, aerodynamic and comfortable take on the original. Available in saloon, coupé and estate versions, it became a favourite for both corporate fleets and, somewhat inevitably, bank robbers (thanks to its rapid acceleration and spacious boot for… well, let’s just say, carrying one’s ‘valuables’).

And along comes the 2.8 Ghia X…

The Granada 2.8 Ghia X sat proudly at the top of the range.

Under the bonnet was Ford’s legendary 2.8 litre Cologne V6, producing around 150 bhp and delivering effortless performance. Paired with either a 4-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic gearbox, the 2.8 Ghia X was smooth, powerful, and perfect for long motorway journeys.

It may not have been a sports car, but it could certainly shift. With a top speed of around 120 mph and a 0-60 mph time of around 9 seconds, it was more than capable of keeping up with its pricier German rivals. It was designed to be a proper motorway cruiser, making long journeys a breeze.

What set the Ghia X apart was probably its luxury. Named after Carrozzeria Ghia, Ford’s Italian styling house, the Ghia trim meant you were getting top-tier comfort and elegance. You could opt for plush velour or optional leather seats, for that essential 1980s executive style. 

There was an internal wood veneer trim, electric windows and mirrors, some nice square fog lights, power steering, optional air con and a digital clock - some advanced tech for the time! Even more futuristic-y was the trip computer, which showed you some useful data on an LCD display.

And who could forget the radio-cassette unit. Heaven…

Despite its size, the Granada 2.8 Ghia X handled surprisingly well. Ford fitted it with MacPherson strut front suspension and coil springs at the rear, giving it a smooth, composed ride. It may have leaned a bit in the corners, but it was stable, predictable and perfect for covering long distances in comfort.

A rarity now? 

Production of the Mk2 Granada ran from 1977 to 1985, after which it was replaced by the more modern Ford Scorpio/Granada Mk3. However, the 2.8 Ghia X remains one of the most sought-after versions of the Granada, with classic car lovers still cherishing its mix of V6 power, old-school luxury and 1980s charm.

It’s not entirely clear how many were manufactured. The Mk 2 Granada saw a reported 918,969 units made, but as the Ghia X was the higher-end variant, it’s likely that they represent just a fraction of that number. They are a pretty rare sight on the roads today, but if you ever come across one - especially in immaculate condition - you’re looking at a true British executive classic, and one that you could reasonably pick up for £10-15,000 in today’s market.