Ford Falcon EA

Ford Australia are reputed to have invested over $700 million in the development of the "EA", the long overdue replacement for the XF Falcon.

Much like the "BA" of 2002, the "EA" had countless improvements over its predecessors.

Most importantly for Ford was the introduction of new fuel injected 3.2 and 3.9 litre (SOHC) engines - which were a great improvement on the harsh and thirsty 3.3 and 4.1 litre pushrod sixes they replaced.

Gone were the troublesome carburettors, and with them rough idling and the need for regular tuning.

But now the standard Falcon was fitted with power steering, 4 wheel disc brakes and a 5 speed manual.

The front suspension was new from the ground up and offered a better ride, handling and longevity.

The "variable assist" power steering was far superior to the XF model, and offered the added benefit of delivering a tighter turning circle (the QE2 putting a XF to shame).

Unfortunately for the EA reliability issues were soon to surface and the model quickly gained a bad reputation with the Australian motoring public.

Some analysts believe it was Ford's desire to get the new model to market quickly, without first ironing out the bugs, that caused the problem.

But Ford were committed to the new car, and the subsequent "EB" model had all of the problems sorted.

Far too recent to be collectable in "Falcon" guise, there are some models such as the muscular Peter Brock edition EA Falcon and various SVO models that an astute collector may just be able to purchase at a good price!