Ford Maya

Vehicle Overview

The Ford Maya stands as a pragmatic prototype designed by Italdesign Giugiaro with the intent of facilitating limited daily production while keeping industrial investments restrained. Introduced in 1984 for the American market, the Maya’s design is quintessentially wedged, reminiscent of iconic prototypes such as the De Tomaso Mangusta, Maserati Boomerang, or the Porsche Tapiro. However, it distinguishes itself with smoother lines, ensuring an aerodynamic efficiency with a 0.28 cx. Crafted with practicality in mind, the front of the Ford Maya features a soft-nose bumper made of plastic, a deformable material filled with polyurethane resins. This design not only enhances safety but also reflects a commitment to innovative materials and engineering. The interior of the Maya showcases a unique approach to controls, featuring a steering wheel equipped with a disc containing all the car’s controls, a concept reminiscent of the Medusa. Under the hood, the Ford Maya is powered by a transversely mounted experimental prototype engine from Ford USA. The engine boasts a 3-liter capacity, a 60° V6 cylinder configuration, 4 valves per cylinder, and an impressive 250 horsepower. This powertrain not only contributes to the Maya’s performance but also aligns with Ford’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology. Building on the success of the original Maya, Italdesign later proposed two more prototype cars, refining and optimizing the concept further. The Maya II EM and the Maya II ES represented evolutions of the initial design, showcasing Italdesign’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation. The Ford Maya, with its blend of practicality, aerodynamic design, and experimental powertrain, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of automotive design in the mid-1980s.