The Ford Falcon GT is an iconic high-performance version of the Australian-built Ford Falcon, a model that has played a significant role in the history of Australian motorsports and muscle car culture. Known for its power, speed, and contributions to Australian touring car racing, the Falcon GT models were highly sought after for both road and track performance. Below is a detailed overview of the Ford Falcon GT, covering its history, design, performance, and significance.
1. History and Evolution
Introduction: The Ford Falcon GT was first introduced in 1967 as part of the XR series Falcon and continued to be produced in various forms until 2014. The GT models were designed to be high-performance variants of the regular Ford Falcon and were built to compete with Holden's muscle car offerings, especially on the racetrack.
Key Generations:
Ford XR Falcon GT (1967):
The first Falcon GT, the XR GT, was equipped with a 289 cubic inch (4.7-liter) V8 engine borrowed from Ford in the U.S.
It was a pivotal model for Ford Australia, and its success in motorsport, especially in the Bathurst 500, helped establish the Falcon GT’s legendary status. The XR GT's combination of power, handling, and reliability made it a formidable competitor.
Ford XW Falcon GT and GT-HO (1969-1970):
The XW GT took things further with a 351 cubic inch (5.8-liter) Windsor V8 engine. A more powerful variant, the GT-HO (Handling Option), was designed to dominate on the racetrack, particularly in endurance events.
The GT-HO Phase II was equipped with a Cleveland V8 engine and became famous for its speed and handling, making it a staple of Australian muscle car culture.
The GT-HO Phase III (1971), often regarded as the pinnacle of Australian muscle cars, featured a 351 Cleveland V8 producing 300+ horsepower. It was claimed to be the fastest four-door production sedan in the world at the time.
Ford XA Falcon GT and GT-HO Phase IV (1972-1973):
The XA Falcon GT introduced a more modern design and marked the first completely Australian-designed Falcon.
The Phase IV GT-HO was planned but never fully realized due to government pressures over safety concerns in high-performance cars. However, only a few Phase IV prototypes were made, making them incredibly rare and valuable.
Later Models (XB, XC, etc.):
The Falcon GT continued with the XB and XC series, with slightly toned-down performance as the 1970s energy crisis affected demand for muscle cars.
These later models focused more on styling and luxury features, though they still maintained strong V8 powerplants.
Ford Falcon GT (1990s-2014):
In the 1990s, Ford revived the GT name with the EB Falcon and continued through the FG Falcon series, with the final Falcon GT being produced in 2014 as part of the 50th Anniversary celebration.
The final GT, the FPV GT F, featured a 5.0-liter supercharged V8, producing over 470 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful Falcons ever produced.
2. Design
Exterior:
The design of the Falcon GT evolved with each generation, with early models like the XR and XW having a more classic muscle car appearance, featuring bold lines, wide grilles, and iconic "GT" badging.
The Falcon GT was known for its aggressive stance, signature racing stripes (on some models), and features like hood scoops and spoilers that hinted at its performance capabilities.
Later models like the XA and XB became more aerodynamic and modern, reflecting changes in automotive design trends through the 1970s and beyond.
Interior:
The interior of Falcon GTs combined performance-focused elements with comfort, featuring sports seats, special GT badging, and premium materials for the era.
Later models, especially from the 1990s and 2000s, incorporated more modern technology and comfort features, such as advanced audio systems, leather upholstery, and digital instrumentation.
3. Performance
Engines:
The Falcon GT was consistently powered by V8 engines throughout its history, with displacements ranging from the 289 cubic inch V8 in the early models to the 351 Cleveland V8 in the legendary GT-HO models.
The GT-HO Phase III (1971) remains a standout, with its 351 Cleveland V8 producing an official rating of 300 horsepower, though many believe it produced much more in reality, with estimates suggesting up to 380 horsepower.
Acceleration and Speed:
The GT-HO Phase III was capable of 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in under 6.5 seconds and had a top speed of over 140 mph (225 km/h), making it one of the fastest cars of its time.
The final FPV GT F from 2014 featured modern performance with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8, which could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in around 4.5 seconds, showcasing how far the performance of the Falcon GT had come.
4. Motorsport Legacy
Bathurst Dominance:
The Falcon GT earned its place in Australian motorsport history with multiple victories at the famed Bathurst 500/1000, one of the most prestigious touring car races in Australia.
Legendary drivers like Allan Moffat and Ian Geoghegan helped cement the Falcon GT’s reputation on the track with their dominant performances in the early 1970s.
Touring Car Influence:
The Falcon GT's presence in Australian touring car racing helped establish the Ford vs. Holden rivalry that continues to define Australian motorsport culture to this day.
5. Cultural Significance
The Falcon GT is a symbol of Australian automotive culture, representing the peak of locally developed high-performance vehicles.
Today, the classic GT models, especially the GT-HO Phase III, are highly collectible and sought after by car enthusiasts and collectors, often fetching high prices at auctions.
