Designed to capture the “Built Ford Tough” attitude of a Marine in dress uniform, it combined 1960s Ford Galaxie-inspired retro styling with high-performance Mustang underpinnings.
Based on a stretched version of the S197 Mustang platform, featuring a solid rear axle and powered by a 5.0-liter “Cammer” V8 (sourced from Ford Racing).
It had 400 horsepower with some sources cite up to 600 hp. And was paired with a 6-speed manual with a gated shifter.
Exterior: Characterized by a blunt nose, high waistline, and a three-bar horizontal chrome grille that was structurally integrated into the bumper. It featured a functional “shaker” hood scoop.
“Squircles”: A recurring design theme of “square-circles” used in the grille, taillights, and throughout the interior.
Seating: Four low-back bucket seats wrapped in thick black belt leather with exposed-edge seams.
Safety Tech: Previewed advanced safety features like four-point “belt and suspenders” harnesses and inflatable rear seat belts.
Retractable Headrests: Headrests that deployed from the roof and adjusted automatically for occupants.
The Interceptor never entered production as a standalone model. However, several of its design cues—most notably the horizontal grille and “squircle” taillight elements—were later incorporated into the sixth-generation Ford Taurus. Today, it is part of Ford’s U.S. Heritage Fleet.
