The first generation Ford Courier was introduced for the 1972 model year and sold for a little over $3,000 USD (equivalent to $17,969 in 2018) when introduced. The Courier was manufactured by Mazda (Toyo Kogyo), and imported and sold by Ford Motor Company as a response to the unforeseen popularity of the small Toyota and Nissan (Datsun) pickups.

1972-1976 Ford Courier Specifications

Badging:

Badging was changed several times in the first generation of the series.

In 1972, the tailgate read “Ford Courier” in large, raised letters; there was a small “Courier” badge on the front of the hood.
From 1973 until 1976, the hood badging read “Ford”. In 1973, the tailgate read “Courier” in large letters, with a small “Ford” badge on the upper left.
In 1974, it read “Ford” in large letters, with a small “Courier” badge on the lower right.
In 1976, the cab was lengthened by 3 inches (76 mm) and extra trim was added to the grille.

Engine & Transmission Specifications:

Engine: 1.8L (1800cc) 4-Cylinder (Overhead Cam)
Compression: 8.6 to 1
Horsepower: 74-horsepower (55 kW) at 5,070 rpm
Torque: 92 lbf⋅ft (125 N⋅m) at 3,500 rpm
Fuel Capacity: 11.9 gallons (electric pump)
Axle Ratio: 4.11
Transmission: 4-speed manual
- 1st: 4.02
- 2nd: 2.40
- 3rd: 1.51
- 4th: 1.00
- Reverse: 4.02
Clutch Diameter: 8.46 Inch (Hydraulic Actuation)
5-Speed manual available in 1976
3-speed automatic optional

Weights & Dimensions:

GVW: 3,915 lbs
Curb Weight: 2,515 lbs
Payload: 1,400 lbs
Length: 172-inches
Width: 63-inches
Wheelbase: 104.4-inches
Track Width: 51.2-inches
Height: 61.6-inches
Bed Length: 74.5-inches
Bed Width: 62.2-inches
Bed Width Between Wheelwells: 38.6-inches

1977-1982 Ford Courier Specifications

Front disc brakes were added in 1977.

In 1979, the base model engine was increased in size to 2.0-liters (120.1 CID).

Power steering was added in 1982.

Engine & Transmission Specifications:

Engine: 2.0L (120.1 CID) (1979-1982)
Horsepower: 77-horsepower @ 4300 RPM
Torque: 109 ft-lbs at 2400 RPM
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Fuel Capacity: 14.8-gallons (short wheel base) 17.4-gallons (long wheel base)
2.3-liter engine optional (88-Horsepower 119 lb⋅ft Torque) (same engine used in the Ford Pinto and Mustang II)
The Ford Courier was never offered with a diesel engine.