Ford Falcon classic cars for sale

History of the Ford Falcon

The Ford Falcon was introduced in 1960 as Ford’s answer to the rising demand for more economical, compact vehicles in the US. Originally developed in response to the success of the Volkswagen Beetle and the AMC Rambler American, the Falcon was positioned as a compact yet spacious and robust vehicle. Ford produced the Falcon not only in the US, but also developed localised versions for Canada, Argentina, and Australia, each adapted to local market needs. In the US, the Falcon played a crucial role until production ended in 1970, and served as the technical foundation for the first Ford Mustang. In Argentina, production of the Falcon continued with few changes until 1991. In Australia, the Falcon evolved for decades, becoming a household name in taxis, law enforcement and even motorsport, with production continuing there until 2016.

Model history

The lineage of the Falcon is notably diverse. The US Falcon, built from 1960–1970, expanded from simple sedans and wagons to include sporty V8 variants from 1963. After 1970, the Maverick took over its market segment in North America, while in Argentina, the Falcon continued with six-cylinder engines, mainly for local buyers. The Australian Falcon developed on its own trajectory from 1960, incorporating significant updates—especially the third-generation Falcon with the XB code (introduced 1973), which became world-famous thanks to the 'Mad Max' film franchise. Key model milestones include the XK to XY series (1960s–1972), the muscular XA/XB/XC Falcons (1972–1979), and continued evolution with distinct local engineering up to 2016.

Highlights of the Ford Falcon

The Ford Falcon range stands out for its astonishing versatility. From compact utilitarian sedans to fire-breathing V8-powered coupes, the Falcon lineage covers daily drivers, police vehicles and race cars. The Australian XB Falcon, in particular, enjoys unrivalled cult status as the 'Pursuit Special' and 'V8 Interceptor' in film and car culture, and its presence at events like Goodwood underlines its motorsport appeal. Body variants include saloon, estate (wagon), and ute (pickup). The platform’s adaptability made it a favourite for period motorsport builds, custom restorations, and film replicas—none more famous than the Mad Max Interceptor. A look at current supply statistics: over 95% of classic Ford listings tagged Falcon relate to the general series, with a distinct emphasis on the XB model at 4.3%. In terms of demand, every Falcon listing makes up the entirety of interest in this segment for Ford classics in our marketplace, confirming its focused enthusiast base.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The most famous special edition is the Australian Ford Falcon XB 'Pursuit Special', globally known as the Mad Max 'V8 Interceptor'. Built on the 1974 XB Falcon coupe base, it's often replicated, especially in motorsport and pop-culture circles. Many of these replicas are constructed to FIA/HTP motorsport specifications, and the vehicle’s association with police pursuit and performance adds to its mystique. Other collectable models include performance-tuned XB variants used in historic racing.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Earlier Falcons (US/Argentina) are known for straightforward, robust engineering—simple OHV inline-six engines (up to 3.6 litres), with later options for V8s giving increased power and muscle-car aura (notably in Australian models). The US Falcons typically used leaf spring rear suspension and basic front setups, but the Australian versions, especially in the 1970s XB series, delivered improved road holding, more powerful brakes, and up to 600 hp in heavily tuned racing or film constructs. Falcons used both manual and automatic gearboxes; original build quality supports easy drivetrain maintenance and long-term durability—crucial for classic drivers choosing to race or restore. Handling varies: saloon and wagon models deliver classic American comfort, while coupe and performance-spec variants are designed for high-speed stability.

• Ford Falcon XB Pursuit Special: Base for the Mad Max 'V8 Interceptor', famed for motorsport and pop culture relevance.
• Argentinian Falcons: Long production runs (until 1991), robust six-cylinder engines and ideal for classic daily use.
• US Falcons: Early compact models with accessible parts availability and reputation for reliability.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Design varied by region. Early US and Argentinian Falcons feature classic 1960s American proportions—clean lines, chrome accents, bench seats and practical dashboards. The Australian Falcons, especially XB coupes, introduced more aggressive styling: pronounced grilles, flowing wings, muscular rear quarters; often custom-fitted with period-correct steel or fibreglass bumpers, unique colour schemes and police/motorsport accessories. Notable is the adaptability: police and taxi versions, racing conversions, and 'Interceptor' replicas, all with signature design cues—external fuel tanks, light bars, spoilers and auxiliary lamps. Interior fitment depends on use: regulars show comfortable, utilitarian finishes; racing/replica builds feature bespoke seats, roll cages, and custom instrumentation.

Other relevant features

Globally, the Falcon is integral to a very particular classic scene, bridging everyday usability, racing, and film car culture. An extensive replacement parts market exists, driven by both motorsport and replica communities. Many Falcons, especially Australian variants, are eligible for historic racing under FIA rules. The ongoing interest in Mad Max-style builds ensures a constant market for new projects, restoration parts and accessories from bumpers to overfenders.

Summary

The Ford Falcon is a truly global classic, distinguished by its rare cultural significance, engineering reliability, and endless options for enthusiasts—whether restoring, racing, or creating screen-accurate replicas. With major collector attention focused on the Australian XB and high-value Mad Max 'Interceptor' versions, and a supply share that dominates the Ford classic segment, the Falcon is a model with few rivals in theatre, motorsport, and classic car communities.