Edge of Tomorrow: The 1984 Aerostar That Almost Was - AllCarIndex

Edge of Tomorrow: The 1984 Aerostar That Almost Was

Jun 27, 2025

Ford Motor Company stunned the automotive world in 1984 with the unveiling of the Ford Aerostar Concept - a revolutionary vehicle that promised to change the way people thought about people and cargo carriers. The official brochure boasted about the extensive design development and testing that went into creating this futuristic vehicle, setting high expectations for what was to come.

One of the key features that set the Aerostar Concept apart from its competitors was its design superiority. With the most aerodynamic profile available in a compact carrier, boasting a low .39 drag coefficient, the Aerostar Concept was ahead of its time. The "aircraft-style" doors with concealed drip moldings added to the sleek and futuristic look of the vehicle.

But the Aerostar Concept wasn't just about looks - it was also built for versatility. With seating for up to seven adults and a variety of seating arrangements, including a fold-down seat/bed option, the Aerostar Concept was designed to adapt to the needs of its passengers. The "quick release" rear bench seats made it easy to transform the interior for additional cargo room, with a total of 142 cu. ft. of available space and payloads of up to 2,000 pounds.

In terms of comfort and convenience, the Aerostar Concept was ahead of its time. With features such as an electronic instrument cluster, EEC-IV computerized engine control system, electronic fuel injection, Tripminder computer, and an "Omnisound" premium sound system, the Aerostar Concept was packed with cutting-edge technology.

But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Aerostar Concept was its ride and handling capability. Built on a Ford-tough chassis with four-corner coil-spring suspension, the Aerostar Concept promised unsurpassed handling, stability, and maneuverability. With a trailer towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and a tight turning diameter even better than the Ford Tempo, the Aerostar Concept was built to handle it all.

Although the Ford Aerostar Concept never made it to production in its exact form, it paved the way for the future of people and cargo carriers. Many of the features and technologies showcased in the Aerostar Concept would eventually make their way into Ford's production vehicles, revolutionizing the way we think about transportation. The Aerostar Concept may have been ahead of its time, but its impact is still felt in the vehicles we drive today.