Archived · Classic Cars · 2 min read
Ford Falcon XR
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Historical article recovered from a Wayback capture dated 2020-09-18.
Ford Falcon XR
1966 - 1968
Country:
Engine:
6 cyl. & V8
Capacity:
2.4 litre / 3.3 litre / 4.7litre V8
Power:
121 bhp (3.3 litre)
Transmission:
3 spd. man / 2 spd. auto
Top Speed:
n/a
Number Built:
87270
Collectability:
Ford Falcon XR
Reviewed by Unique Cars and Parts
Our Rating: 3
Introduction
Whereas the previous four ranges of Falcon tended to follow styling trends set by their full size US parent cars, and were marketed with reference to the “Thunderbird”, it was decided with the new XR range, which again followed a US design, to instead capitalise on the phenomenal success of the Mustang.
Bigger but with a tighter turning circle, the XR was both agile and, in many respects, more minamilist in style to the former Falcon models. Copying the Mustang’s styling meant giving the car the familiar coke bottle style line, along with a long bonnet and short boot cue, but retaining the traditional round tail lamps.
The result was a car that was modern and handsome and while the two door hardtop model disappeared, this was more than compensated for by the arrival, for the first time in the Australian Falcon, of the 289ci (4.7litre) V8 and some serious horsepower.
Best of all for those who preferred the “3-On-The-Tree” manual transmission, the XR now came with syncromesh, although this was only offered as an extra cost option.
The Futura models were replaced by the 500 designation, it fitting neatly between the standard Falcon and upmarket Fairmont. Seatbelts were fitted as standard equipment for the front occupants, however as a lap type only (although again for a price you could option the far safer lap-sash type).
In 1968 the XR model began the legend that was to be the GT. This family car muscled out 225 bhp thanks to the 289 Windsor V8. Understated in style, the original XR Falcon GT’s were only sold in one colour - Gold. Apart from the colour, it was somewhat difficult to tell it apart from the lesser sedans.
