Ford Aerostar

The Ford Aerostar was Ford's first minivan and was introduced in the summer of 1985 as a 1986 model. It was available in passenger van (Wagon) and cargo van (Van) versions. In 1989, an extended-length model was introduced with an all-wheel drive option following in 1990. The Aerostar was produced only under the Ford brand, while Mercury's first minivan was the Mercury Villager which debuted for the 1993 model year.
The Aerostar was dropped after the 1997 model year after being replaced by the Windstar in the 1995 model year and being sold alongside it from 1995 to 1997. The 2010 Transit Connect is the closest replacement to the Aerostar cargo van.

First generation (1986-1991)

At its launch, the Aerostar was available in a single body length and as a base-model cargo van, XL base-model wagon, and XLT deluxe-trim wagon. The base engine was a 2.3 L four-cylinder, while the 2.8 L Cologne V6 was optional. The Cologne V6 was replaced for 1987 with the 3.0 L Vulcan V6.
For 1988, the 4-cylinder engine was dropped. As the V6 was now standard, the V6 emblem on the front fenders was removed. Two-tone paint was dropped from the XLT model, and the Aerostar script was moved from the front fenders to the left side of the rear hatch; the box beneath it showing the trim level changed from a red background to a gray one.
The Eddie Bauer model was introduced as an upscale model for 1988. It shared most of its features with XLT models (most XLT options were included as standard equipment), but with unique outdoors-themed trim. Two-tone paint schemes were used, but instead of the side panel being an accent between the upper and lower body, the rocker panels and wheel well trim are painted tan as the accent. Aluminum wheels (of the same 14" diameter) were standard on the Eddie Bauer, but are available on XLT wagons as an option. Inside, 2nd-row "quad" bucket seats are an option on both Eddie Bauer and XLT trim.