Anonymous

Reviewed a 1988 Ford Tempo on Aug 11, 2007

1988 brought about a major restyling of the Temp/Topaz models, especially for the sedans. The so-called "second-generation" of these cars was quite a departure from the '84-'87 models. Many external changes, a new dash/interior, and an improved fuel injection system were among the changes. From a driving standpoint, the handling & acceleration won't take your breath away, but for an '80s compact, control is decent, and power is adequate (at least in the 5-speed-equipped models). Build quality is actually quite good; body margins, trim alignment, upholstery, and overall solidity were on par with anything in it's class. Of course, now the newest Tempos are 13 years old, and my '88, built in August of '87, is now 2 decades old. Still, if cared for, they can be solid, dependable cars. When they do break, they are relatively cheap & easy to repair.