To the GMV spotter, an ESS can most easily be identified by the ESS badging on the front fenders, the blacked-out exterior trim, special ESS headrests, and an interior trim code (on the Ford Dataplate located on the driver’s door) starting with "P" denoting "Performance Bucket Seats." Although no other 1978-80 Monarch has such a trim code, it should be noted, however, that not all ESS Monarchs were equipped with the Performance Bucket Seats and therefore, may have a different trim code.

EXCITING NEW MONARCH ESS OPTION - Those who appreciate the flavor and flair of European styling will want to order Monarch with its new ESS option. Its distinctive features have a resemblance to some expensive European sedans. The Monarch ESS option includes refinements that reflect a striking look of distinctive elegance. Blackout vertical grille. Black bodyside moldings with bright inserts. Black window frames. Black hood and deck-lid paint stripes. Black rocker panel treatment and lower back appliques in black and argent. But its striking appearance is just the beginning. The Monarch ESS is built to enjoy. It is equipped with a heavy-duty performance suspension - heavy-duty front and rear shock absorbers, and heavy-duty rear springs.

The ESS option includes standard Monarch features plus the following items:

- Bumper Protection Group - Day/Night Inside Mirror - Rear Door Courtesy Light Switches (4-door models) - Deluxe Sound Package/Luxury Sound Insulation - Dual-Note Horn - Heavy-Duty Suspension - BSW Radial Ply Tires - Dual Racing Mirrors - Leather-Wrapped Sports Steering Wheel (not available with Speed Control)
- Flight Bench Seats (Optional Bucket Seats in Chainmail Vinyl include Unique Door Trim) - European Style Headrests (only w/optional Bucket Seats) - 18 oz. Carpeting - Luggage Compartment Trim - Deluxe Seat and Shoulder Belts - Blackout Grille Texture - Black Windshield Wipers - Hood and Deck Paint Stripes - Wide Wheellip Moldings - Black Rocker Panel Paint Treatment
- Black Bodyside Molding with Bright Mylar Insert - Color-Keyed Wheel Covers - Louvered Opera Window Applique (2-door models) - Black Rear Door Division Bar - Black Window Trim - Black Deck-Lid Stripes - ESS Block Letters on Front Fenders (For 1978, the ESS appears above the Monarch script, for 1979, below the Monarch script, and for 1980, instead of the Monarch script.)

Pictures of Monarch ESS models may be found within the album on the Granada ESS Page.  They will also be found on on the 1978-80 Monarch pages.