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Ford Falcon (AU)

The Ford Falcon (AU) is a full-size car that was produced by Ford Australia from 1998 to 2002. It was the sixth generation Ford Falcon and also included the Ford Fairmont (AU)—the luxury-oriented model range. The AU series replaced the EL Falcon and was constructed on the (at the time) new EA169 platform which continued to harbour Falcon models until 2010 when the BF wagon was discontinued, and Ford Territory models until 2011. The AU series was replaced by the updated BA series.

Ford Falcon (AU)
Ford Fairmont sedan (Series III)
Overview
ManufacturerFord Australia
Also calledFord Fairmont (AU)
FTE TE50
FTE TS50
ProductionSeptember 1998 – September 2002
AssemblyBroadmeadows
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size car
Body style4-door sedan
5-door station wagon
LayoutFR layout
PlatformEA169
RelatedFord Fairlane (AU)
Ford LTD (AU)
Powertrain
Engine4.0 L Intech I6 (petrol)
4.0 L Intech E-Gas I6 (LPG)
4.0 L Intech HP I6 (petrol)
4.0 L Intech VCT I6 (petrol)
5.0 L Windsor V8 (petrol)
10.0 L Synergy 5000 V8 (petrol)
5.6 L Windsor V8 (petrol)
Transmission4-speed M93LE automatic (I6)
4-speed M97LE automatic (V8)
5-speed Tremec T-5 manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,793 mm (110.0 in)–3,096 mm (121.9 in)
Length4,907 mm (193.2 in)–5,077 mm (199.9 in)
Width1,870 mm (74 in)–6,969 mm (274.4 in)
Height1,437 mm (56.6 in)
Curb weight1,437–1,645 kg (3,168–3,627 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorFord Falcon (EL)
SuccessorFord Falcon (BA)

Development and design edit

The AU series was conceived under "Project Eagle" that began in February 1993, and gained the official codename "EA169" in October 1994.[1] It was developed and brought to market in 1998 only after Ford Australia had given consideration to a revamped fifth generation Falcon and a fully imported replacement such as the American front-wheel drive Ford Taurus or rear-wheel drive Ford Crown Victoria, the European rear wheel-drive Scorpio[2] and, reportedly, even the Japanese rear-wheel drive Mazda 929[3] (then part of the Ford conglomerate).

 
 
 
Cutaways of the 1998 Ford Fairmont Ghia

The above alternatives were eliminated in favour of a substantial redesign of the indigenous platform, due to concerns about the Australian market preference for high towing capacity, large interior size and local employment. Specific factors included, for example: research at the time indicated that 69% of Falcons were fitted with towbars and the perception that rear-wheel drive cars were better at towing; the fact that the import models had limited body style options (sedan only or sedan and wagon) and no capability to use a V8 engine.[3]

Stylistically, this new generation Falcon sported Ford's radically new global design language, labelled "New Edge". The aim of this design was to attract a younger generation of buyers with avant-garde looks,[4] however, in Australia it polarized public opinion to the benefit of the more organically designed rival, the 1997 Holden Commodore (VT). The AU series had a very efficient drag coefficient of Cd=0.295 for the sedan (an 11% improvement over the preceding EL series) and 0.34 for the wagon.[5][6]

For the first time in Falcon's history, Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) became available as standard on some models and optional on others. It also featured Australian production firsts, such as Variable Cam Timing (VCT) on some 6-cylinder models and an adaptive automatic transmission on the high-performance T series with steering wheel gear shifting buttons.[7]

Key changes from the fifth generation Falcon included a 35 kg (77 lb) reduction in weight for the base car, 17.5 per cent stiffer bodyshell, and an eight per cent improvement in fuel consumption.[8] Peculiarly, Ford Australia decided to use the original 1950's font for the new "Falcon" and "Futura" badges.

As stated previously, the AU was the first Falcon to offer IRS (a double wishbone design on an isolated subframe). IRS was made available as a costly option on the base Forte, Fairmont and 'S' models, and standard on Fairmont Ghia, XR6 VCT and XR8 models. The updated 6-cylinder engines incorporated advanced features such as VCT on some models and a temperature sensor in the cylinder head, which detected coolant loss and allowed the car to "limp home" safely by cutting cylinders. The engine range comprised: the base Intech model producing 157 kW (211 hp), with a revised cylinder head featuring smaller valve stems, larger exhaust valves, and different rocker ratio, as well as a revised piston and longer conrod and a cast aluminium cross-bolted oil sump (with the same power output as the EL series); an "HP" version reserved to the XR6 producing 164 kW (220 hp) (thanks to: unique cylinder head; reshaped inlet port; redesigned exhaust port; ‘open’ combustion chamber shape to restrict pre-detonation from hot spot areas; unique camshaft; higher fuel pressure; recalibrated EEC V engine management system); the VCT version producing 172 kW (231 hp) for the XR6 VCT; a "Windsor" V8 producing 185 kW (248 hp) (also carried over from the EL series but without major upgrades).[9]

Transmissions were improved for better shift feel and the auto was recalibrated to better suit the upgraded engines. The six and eight cylinder models had a 4-speed BTR M93LE and M97LE automatic transmission, respectively. The automatic XR series models had an "adaptive shift" with five shifting strategies depending on driving conditions. The manual transmission, where available, was a 5-speed T5 model.[9]

The program cost A$700 million before product launch[10] and key staff included chief designer, Steve Park, and Marcus Hotblack, Manager of Interior Design.

Model range edit

Series I (AU) edit

The first series of the AU Falcon was launched in September 1998 and remained on sale until a major upgrade in April 2000. It was marketed under the new slogan "I've come a long way, baby.".[11]

The standard AU range included:

  • Falcon Forté, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan/Wagon, 157 kW (211 hp), 357 N⋅m (263 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon Forté, 5.0L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 175 kW (235 hp), 395 N⋅m (291 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon Futura, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan/Wagon, 157 kW (211 hp), 357 N⋅m (263 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon S, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan, 157 kW (211 hp), 357 N⋅m (263 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon XR6, 4.0L, "HP Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan, 164 kW (220 hp), 366 N⋅m (270 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon XR6 VCT, 4.0L, "Intech VCT" 6-cyl, Sedan, 172 kW (231 hp), 374 N⋅m (276 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon XR8, 5.0L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 185 kW (248 hp), 412 N⋅m (304 lb⋅ft)
  • Fairmont, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan/Wagon, 157 kW (211 hp), 357 N⋅m (263 lb⋅ft)
  • Fairmont Ghia, 4.0L, "Intech VCT" 6-cyl, Sedan, 168 kW (225 hp), 370 N⋅m (270 lb⋅ft)
  • Fairmont Ghia, 5.0L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 175 kW (235 hp), 395 N⋅m (291 lb⋅ft)

Tickford Vehicle Engineering, was responsible for the XR models that carried the "Tickford" wings badge. From July 1999,[12] the newly formed Ford Tickford Experience (FTE) launched the following higher-specification and performance T series (T1) models:

  • TE50, 5.0L, "Synergy 5000" V8, Sedan, 200 kW (270 hp), 420 N⋅m (310 lb⋅ft)
  • TS50, 5.0L, "Synergy 5000" V8, Sedan, 220 kW (300 hp), 435 N⋅m (321 lb⋅ft), automatic only.

The new Forté model was the replacement of the old GLi designation. It was designed and marketed to attract to fleet buyers as well as younger, more inexperienced drivers. When new, the car was competitively priced at A$30,690 with automatic transmission and air conditioning (at the time an option on the other Australian-made rivals) fitted as standard.

The more 'up-spec' model was called the Falcon Futura, which was marketed as a family-oriented safety package in the same vogue as the rival Holden Commodore Acclaim. The Futura differed from the Forté in having a body coloured grille, standard ABS, cruise control, alloy wheels and a digital clock fitted in the centre console (series I only).[13] The price of the car when new was A$34,990.[14]

The Ford Falcon S (for Sporty) sedan was also based on the Forté but designed as an entry-level sports edition. It achieved this through additional features such as body-coloured grille, alloy wheels, S decals on the rear quarters and bootlid, and a high level spoiler. The colour choices were limited to Venom (Red), Liquid Silver, White, Galaxy (Metallic Blue) and Silhouette (Black). Ford eventually offered a "ESP" option pack that added an LSD equipped IRS and ABS to the S-pack.[15]

The XR series was the high performance end of the range. It originally comprised the XR6 HP, XR6 VCT, and XR8 models all sharing a unique quad-lamp front bumper bar and non-high end bonnet. All series I XR's could have the option of a full Tickford bodykit and unique bi-plane rear spoiler.

The Fairmont was the entry level luxury model of the AU range to face-off its main rival, the Holden Berlina. It had all of the fittings of the Futura but included extras such as a honeycomb grille, an 80-second headlamp off delay, wood grain-look dash inserts, unique 15" wheels, dual horns, Fairmont badging on the boot lid and an analogue clock. The Fairmont was offered in sedan and station wagon bodystyles. Above the Fairmont was the Fairmont Ghia, which was the highest non-performance specification model in the range and sedan only. It had additional features that included unique 16" wheels, toggleable traction control, 4-channel ABS, 250 watt audio system with separate amplifier, 11 speakers, and more wood grain-look dash inserts. Fairmont & Fairmont Ghia models were not badged as Falcons.

In terms of safety equipment, the Futura, XR and Fairmont models all had ABS brakes in addition to a driver's airbag, which was the only main safety feature on the Falcon S and Forté. The brakes featured 287x24 mm vented front discs and 287x10.5 mm solid rear discs.[9]

External model differentiation was achieved via the use of different grilles and bonnets (low bonnet and vertical "salad slicer" grille on Forté, horizontal single bar on Futura, integrated quad-lamp bumper bar and grille on the XR sports range; high bonnet and large grille on Fairmont range) and more basic fittings such as different alloy wheel designs, rear light clusters (clear turn signals on Fairmont), body colour-coordination and chrome fittings. The wagons featured a new rear-end relative to the previous generation Falcons. Inside, the Fairmont and XR model featured full instrumentation (oil and battery meters) and the Fairmont twins also adopted a different dashboard. As opposed to the standard Falcon featuring a large oval pod incorporating air conditioning and stereo, the luxury twin featured a 2-level shared with the long-wheelbase AU Fairlane/LTD, with a separate upper level featuring a woodgrain-like trim across to the passenger side that incorporated an analogue clock, trip computer and climate control.

Only the Falcon XR6 VCT and Fairmont Ghia featured "Intech" engines produced by Tickford Vehicle Engineering with variable valve timing. The VCT was developed by Tickford in conjunction with Unisia Jecs who also supplied Jaguar for its V8 engines.[16] IRS was fitted as standard on the Falcon XR6 VCT, XR8 and Fairmont Ghia, and optional on most other sedan models; the XR models being the only ones that could also be fitted with a limited slip differential.

Despite competitive pricing and high standard equipment relative to its rivals, especially for the new entry-level Forté, sales of the AU did not match those of the previous model, the EL Falcon. This was partly due to a lack of enthusiasm by customers for the "New Edge" styling, alteration of fleet sale pricing as well as the long-term decline in the market for large cars.

In May 1999, the AU range received a minor update, introducing a bigger brake booster, front power windows for the Forté and XR6 and lowering the rear suspension of non-XR variants by 24 mm. To heighten its interior quality, the Forté was offered with 'medium graphite' interior trim (slightly darker than originally) and the patterned seat material was changed from the bolsters to the seat centres. Buyers were also able to order the darker 'warm charcoal' colour scheme of other Falcon variants.[9]

The only limited edition launched with this initial series, was the Falcon Classic of June 1999 marketed till October 1999[9] to boost sales. It inherited an eggcrate grille from the non-XR Utility range, dual airbags, ABS brakes, cruise control, upgraded sound system, a "warm charcoal" interior, power aerial, special trim, 15-inch alloys, low profile rear spoiler, bumper inserts and paint. Its recommended retail price was A$30,690.[17]

Utility

The range of AU Falcon Utility vehicles was launched in June 1999. It offered Falcon XL, XLS, XR6 and XR8 style side utility models, a cab-chassis model and a cab-chassis with factory fitted drop-side tray.[18] The latter was the first tray utility vehicle that Ford Australia had produced for several years.

The body of the AU Falcon utility differed in design from the competing Holden Ute in that the cargo tray was separate from the cab, whereas the tray was an integral part of the body shell in the Holden. As a result, this allowed the rear to accept different after market body types, including tray decks, service bodies, and camper van shells. Unlike the sedan, the AU Falcon utility vehicles were very popular amongst tradespeople and individuals alike.

Series II (AU II) edit

Many of these issues were addressed with the AU Series II (April 2000). They included:

  • the "high series" raised bonnet from the Fairmont models
  • a more conventional and common front grille for the volume Forté and Futura range
  • increase depth and width for the rear bumper
  • a laminated firewall, increased under-carpet asphalting and rubberised engine mounts to reduce NVH
  • upgraded braking system (as detailed below)
  • 16" wheels (in lieu of the previous 15 due to the larger twin-piston calipers)
  • lowered ground clearance with new shock absorbers and ball-joints
  • higher quality interior plastics (e.g. less oval central dashboard pod with silver highlights)
  • standard cloth (in lieu of vinyl finishes) and darker "warm charcoal" interiors
  • uprated sound systems
  • upgraded SmartShield security system with a transponder located in the key (in lieu of the previous SmartLock that could not prevent thefts with copied keys)
  • standard front airbag across the range.

Body strength increases, aimed at improving occupant safety and the Falcon's rating in the independent ANCAP crash test program, were also achieved. In the said tests, it received a three star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 24.2 and in the offset crash test, it was found that there was a low risk of injury to all bodily regions (including the driver’s foot and lower leg due to excessive brake pedal movement). New safety features included an airbag and seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters on the front seats across the range. Wagons were fitted with a three-point lap-sash rear centre seatbelt, with the retractor integrated into the seat back.[9]

The braking system now featured thicker front and rear discs, twin-piston aluminium-headed front calipers, bigger non-asbestos brake pads, larger master cylinder and a higher capacity booster. The discs were now ventilated 287x28 mm at the front and solid 287x16 mm at the back. The XR6 VCT and XR8 were also available with an optional Tickford Premium Brake setup that brought 329 mm grooved front brake discs with twin-piston C4 calipers.[9]

Additional features included the introduction of a 100 watt stereo with single-slot CD player, variable intermittent wipers and door lock/unlock button on the instrument panel and the equipment upgrade (such as standard air conditioning, front power windows and automatic transmission) on the entry Forté model, to shrug off initial impressions the low budget perception associated with the first AU series. Also across the range, Ford now offered 3-years or 60,000 km worth of scheduled servicing included in the purchase price.

The standard series II range included:

  • Falcon Forté, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan/Wagon, 157 kW (211 hp), 357 N⋅m (263 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon Forté, 5.0L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 175 kW (235 hp), 395 N⋅m (291 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon S, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan, 157 kW (211 hp), 357 N⋅m (263 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon Futura, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan/Wagon, 157 kW (211 hp), 357 N⋅m (263 lb⋅ft)
  • Fairmont, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan/Wagon, 157 kW (211 hp), 357 N⋅m (263 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon XR6, 4.0L, "Intech" 6-cyl, Sedan, 164 kW (220 hp), 366 N⋅m (270 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon XR6 VCT, 4.0L, "Intech VCT" 6-cyl, Sedan, 172 kW (231 hp), 374 N⋅m (276 lb⋅ft)
  • Falcon XR8, 5.0L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 200 kW (270 hp), 420 N⋅m (310 lb⋅ft) (to April 2001)
  • Falcon XR8, 5.0L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 220 kW (300 hp), 435 N⋅m (321 lb⋅ft) (from May 2001)
  • Fairmont Ghia, 4.0L, "Intech VCT" 6-cyl, Sedan, 168 kW (225 hp), 370 N⋅m (270 lb⋅ft)
  • Fairmont Ghia, 5.0L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 175 kW (235 hp), 395 N⋅m (291 lb⋅ft)

As listed above, the engine range remained largely the same initially, except for increased output for the XR8 and the introduction, from July 2000, of a dedicated LPG engine, marketed as the "Intech E-Gas". It had a single-point, venturi-style carburetor rather than sequential injection as per the petrol engines. Other differences included: different spark plugs, inductive high tension leads and a unique engine management processor. The sedans were fitted with a 92-litre LPG cylinder, while wagons had 115 litre cylinders.[9]

Sedan-based limited editions included the: X-Pack (a Forté upgrade with a choice of two ROH alloy wheel designs from the Ford accessory line as standard and original XR rear wing), SR (Forté-based S successor now with ABS), Futura Classic, Futura & Fairmont Ghia 75th Anniversary sedans (to commemorate Ford Australia's birth in 1925), XR8 Rebel (featuring a limited edition Ford Racing bodykit, 18-inch wheels, MOMO steering wheel and gear shift and a Sony PlayStation 2 with Grand Turismo III).[9]

Augmenting the X-Pack, in late 2000 Stillwell Ford dealers in South Australia launched a Sportryder variant, which added an upgraded and lowered sport suspension using Pedders components plus locally sourced CSA alloy wheels for A$29,990.

The Falcon Utility Series II range included the XL, XLS, XR and XR8 with limited editions including (by respective base model): Tradesman (XL); Sports Edition and Marlin (XLS); Pursuit (XR).[19]

The FTE T2 range comprised:

  • TE50, 5.0L, "Synergy 5000" V8, Sedan, 220 kW (300 hp), 435 N⋅m (321 lb⋅ft)
  • TS50, 5.0L, "Synergy 5000" V8, Sedan, 220 kW (300 hp), 435 N⋅m (321 lb⋅ft)

Series III (AU III) edit

This final AU-based Falcon was presented at the Sydney Motorshow in November 2001, by surprise[20]

The Falcon's Series III range reflected that of the AU II, except for:

  • the discontinuance of the Falcon S
  • a limited edition Falcon XR6 VCT ST (with unique Ford Racing bodykit from the XR8 Rebel)
  • a Falcon XR8 Pursuit 250 Utility by TVE (250 kW upgrade).

FTE additionally introduced more powerful T3 models as follows:

  • TE50, 5.6L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 249.8 kW (335.0 hp), 500 N⋅m (370 lb⋅ft)
  • TS50, 5.6L, "Windsor" V8, Sedan, 249.8 kW (335.0 hp), 500 N⋅m (370 lb⋅ft)

Externally, the Series III, featured body-coloured mirrors and side strips plus standard side skirts and different wheels on some models. Headlights became a shade darker, side indicators clear and a dot matrix windscreen was added to reduce sun glare. In terms of interiors, additional features were added as standard: Futura – rear power windows and velour trim; Fairmont – 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat; Fairmont Ghia – 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and leather trim. Though ABS became standard across the range, the XR models lost equipment: XR6 – limited-slip differential (LSD) now optional; all XR's – stereo downgrade to a 4-speaker single-CD unit. A bodykit marketed as "Havoc" (with new front and rear bumpers featuring stainless mesh inserts; fog lights; side skirts and an optional rear spoiler)[21] became optional on all Falcons with XR8 buyers also having the choice of a Tickford bodykit or the Ford Racing bodykit (originally featured on the AU II Falcon XR8 Rebel). Fairmont and XR could also optioned with the "REX" (Rear Entertainment XTreme) package, allowing rear passenger to play DVD movies or connect game consoles.

The combined production of Falcon Series II and III to September 2002 totaled 237,701 units.

As of 2020, there are 44,816 AU Falcon's registered in Australia. 17,192 of which are within Victoria, or equating to around 38% of the national fleet.

As of 2023, there are approximately 2,004 AU falcons left registered in New South Wales.

FTE T series edit

 
FTE TS50 (T3)
 
FTE TE50 (T2)
 
FTE TS50 (T3)
 
FTE TE50 (T2)

Due to inadequate sales of Ford performance sedans and Holdens success with its 5.7-litre GM produced V8 on its Commodore range. Ford were forced to up the ante with the XR8 and the other Falcon-derived higher performance sedans, that could give buyers a comparable between the two brands and aid the sales.

Accordingly, Ford Tickford Experience (FTE) was established as a joint venture between Ford Australia and Tickford Vehicle Engineering (TVE). As listed above, the resulting T series range comprised the short wheelbase TE50 and TS50 plus the long-wheelbase TL50 (based on the Fairlane). In addition to higher mechanical specifications and performance, this range also benefitted from a "FTE Premium Assist" service with enhanced ownership benefits.[22]

Between 1999 and 2002, there were three T series (based on the respective Falcon series): T1 (AU), T2 (AU II) and T3 (AU III). Their powerplant was a modified "Windsor" V8 renamed "Synergy 5000" that were hand-built and featured an engraved plaque bearing the name of its builder.[7] Over the AU II and AU III period, the production of the "Windsor" was phased out, with remaining units shipped to FTE becoming the most powerful naturally aspirated electronically fuel injected (EFI) "Windsor" engines in the world used to make the Ford Falcon XR8 sedan, and the Pursuit 250 utility. These last batch of engines were named the 'Windsor Stroker'. FTE increased the displacement of the Stroker to 5.6-litres.

The TE50 was available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The TS50 and TL50, which were not available in manual, only had the automatic transmission with "Electronic Sport Shift" (ESS). This feature was an Australian-production first in that, it was the first locally made car to have steering-wheel mounted buttons that permitted manual gear shifting.[7]

Inside, all models featured a MOMO steering wheels and could be optioned with an upgraded Brembo braking system.[23] Externally, FTE aimed for a more sophisticated look compared to its wilder styled rival, Holden Special Vehicles. The cars had distinctive front and rear styling highlighted by a chrome-mesh grille, 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels on the TE50 and TS50 models respectively, and discreet low-profile rear spoilers for the T1 series. The T2 saw the TE50 feature the XR-style rear wing, whereas the TS50 retained the low-profile version. All T3 models featured 18-inch wheels and louder V8 Racing-inspired bodykits with high-profile rear wings.[24]

Verte Automotive edit

In the UK, AU utilities were imported by Verte Automotive (then a subsidiary of AC Cars) as the Verte Tempest from March 2002. Sold in XL and XLS trim levels, it was powered by the 4.0-litre inline-six on LPG only.[25] From the last quarter of 2002, plans included powering the AC Green and Black coupes with the same engine (LPG and petrol, respectively) and eventually selling a range of Tempest XR6 and XR8 utes and sedans, ahead of the Tempest T-Series and the long-wheelbase Fairlane/LTD duo.[26] These plans, however, never eventuated.

Hillier Coupes edit

In 2000, the Hillier brothers created a two-door AU Falcon Coupe based on an forte’ spec ex-police car. This then debuted at the Summernats car festival that year. Following a deal with Ford Australia, the green car then became the red 300+ concept that then debuted at the 2001 Melbourne motor show in order to obtain some interest away from the Holden Monaro stand at the motor show which served as a marketing ploy. Following this Roman AutoTek (now AutoTek) approached the Hillier Brothers to produce another show car, however this time it would be made with a more extreme guise. The Ford ‘Arrow’ coupe then debuted the following year at the 2002 Melbourne motor show. Hillier with AEC and Ford began to plan a low-production run of 100 Hillier coupes which they planned to sell for $135,000. Orders were then taken for up to 20 cars instead of the original 100, and Ford then left the project, killing off the Hillier Coupe from small scale production.[27] Only three coupes were made, the Ford 300+ concept car, the Autotek 'Arrow' Coupe and a red XR8 coupe.

Concept cars edit

 
Ford R5 concept

Eager to improve Falcon's reception, Ford Australia and other companies presented a number of concept cars that were based on this sixth-generation Falcon over time. These included:[19][21][28]

  • R5 utility: unveiled at the 2000 Sydney Motor Show, this was a 220 kW (300 hp) V8-powered crew-cab, featuring rear suicide doors and ground clearance increased by 75 mm;[29] it foreshadowed both the new design BA Falcon's dashboard as well as the 2003 standard-cab but elevated BA Falcon RTV utility range;[30] moreover, when displayed again at the 2001 Melbourne Motor Show, it switched from rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive as part of Ford Australia's then future plans for such a platform;[31] the concept was painted in a special "Uluru Sunset" paint whose hues changed from yellow to purple depending on light conditions;[32]
  • Falcon XR8 Xplod sedan: unveiled in 2001 but never produced, it was a concept car painted in a distinctive "Firestorm" gold paint and powered by a 200 kW (270 hp), 5.0-Litre V8 engine benefitting from a custom Remus exhaust system and Pacemaker extractors; it also featured a full Tickford body kit with bonnet air scoops and Premium brake system, 18-inch MOMO alloy wheels, a black/gold Recaro leather-trimmed interior driving seats and, importantly, a Sony "Xplod" audio and DVD system from which it derived its name;[21]
  • Falcon 300+ coupé: unveiled at the 2001 Melbourne Motor Show, this car was produced by Advanced Engine Components (AEC) and Miller Design at a cost of A$1 million, with production aspirations originally supported by Ford Australia's Geoff Polites; it was fitted with a Fairmont interior and a supercharged Ford Mustang-sourced 4.6-Litre engine, which developed 350 kW (470 hp) for a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) sprint in 4.6 seconds; despite an intended run of at least 100 units and 15 firm orders, it never reached full production.[33][34]
  • Arrow coupé: unveiled at the 2002 Melbourne Motor Show, this was a more extreme coupé interpretation of the then current Falcon by aftermarket distributor Autotek and coachwork company Hillier Conversions; it featured an aggressive restyled front and was built in limited numbers at a price of A$100,000 to A$140,000 depending on specifications.[35][36]

Motorsports edit

 
Ford AU Falcon XR8 of Gibson Motorsport (2001)

Despite its highly anticipated competitiveness that was hoped the AU would bring to Ford in the V8 Supercars Championship and the return of a works Ford team in its debut season of 1999, the aerodynamically challenged AU had very limited success, winning only 8 out of 52 rounds in its 4 years of competition. During those 52 championship rounds the AU Falcon also scored 22 pole positions, or a much healthier 42 percent of all poles which included three at the high-speed Mount Panorama circuit at Bathurst. The AU also claimed 46 fastest race laps of the 125 races held during that time, or 36 percent. The AU overall won 23 out of the 125 races in total which is roughly 19 percent total races won. The AU would be the only Falcon in the modern V8 Supercar era to not win a championship or a Bathurst 1000. Its most famous wins would be in the 2001 Queensland 500 by Paul Radisich and Steven Johnson in their #17 Shell Helix DJR Falcon. And again in 2002 with David Besnard and Simon Wills in their #9 Caltex Havoline SBR Falcon. The lack of success by Ford during the late 1990s and early 2000s prompted V8 Supercars to introduce a new platform known as "Project Blueprint" that would make the competition more evenly matched.

Privateer racer Trevor Haines raced a TE50 to 13th place in the 2002 Australian GT Production Car Championship, and later the team finished 9th outright and a Class 5 win in the 2002 Bathurst 24 Hour. Warren Luff took back to back victories in 2002 and 2003 V8 Brute Ute's series racing an AU Falcon XR8 ute. The AU falcon has also been raced in the Australian saloon car series and has been very successful.

References edit

  1. ^ "The Falcon Story". Wheels. Sydney: 44. October 1998.
  2. ^ "The Falcon Story". Wheels. Sydney: 45. October 1998.
  3. ^ a b "AU Falcon (1998–2000)". Falcon Facts. 22 January 2009. Retrieved 18 February 2015.
  4. ^ "AU Falcon – A Dedicated Australian". Web Publications Pty Limited. 3 September 1998. Archived from the original on 8 July 2012. Retrieved 9 July 2007.
  5. ^ . AutoWeb.com.au. 3 September 1998. Archived from the original on 18 January 2016. Retrieved 9 January 2016.
  6. ^ Edgar, Julian (17 December 2002). "The Aerodynamic Development of the VY Commodore - Part 1". AutoSpeed.com.au. Retrieved 9 January 2016.
  7. ^ a b c . www.eccosoftware.com.au. Archived from the original on 11 May 2015. Retrieved 25 April 2015.
  8. ^ Kenwright, Joe (1 April 2005). "Holden VT/VX Commodore (1997–2002) AND Ford Falcon AU (1998–2002)". CarPoint Australia. ninemsn. Retrieved 24 June 2008.
  9. ^ a b c d e f g h i . Australian.Car Reviews. Archived from the original on 18 October 2015. Retrieved 23 April 2015.
  10. ^ "News". 2 September 2020.
  11. ^ Smith, Graham (22 January 2009). "Ford Falcon AU – 1998–2000: model watch". Herald Sun. Retrieved 18 September 2009.
  12. ^ "aufalcon.com - Home of the Ford AU Falcon Club - Australian Ford Falcon AU Series Club for Members". www.aufalcon.com.
  13. ^ The new Falcon, Fairmont and XR (AU sales brochure FCL 7384), November 1998, pages 13–14
  14. ^ drive.com.au (4 October 2016). "2009 BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics hybrid concept". Drive.
  15. ^ drive.com.au (10 October 2016). "Putting the 'S' back into Sport". drive.com.au.
  16. ^ "Tickford The Joy of Driving" by Gavin Farmer
  17. ^ "Ford Classic Speculation Pages, True Blue Ford.com". trueblueford.com.
  18. ^ Ford AU Ute, New Car Buyer No 15, 2000, pages 30–33
  19. ^ a b "Marks' Site - Ford Falcon". Retrieved 23 April 2015.
  20. ^ "AUIII Falcon (2001–2002)". Falcon Facts. Retrieved 18 February 2015.
  21. ^ a b c "MARKS' SITE- AUII Ford Falcon". marks.htmlplanet.com. Retrieved 12 November 2017.
  22. ^ Ford Tickford Experience set for Launch in October 2012-03-28 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved 29 November 2008
  23. ^ "Technical Specs".
  24. ^ . www.tseriesclub.org. Archived from the original on 15 November 2014.
  25. ^ . Archived from the original on 19 October 2015.
  26. ^ "Falcons for Britain". GoAuto. Retrieved 19 October 2015.
  27. ^ "Falcon Coupe Killed Off". CarsGuide. Retrieved 28 August 2018.
  28. ^ "MARKS' SITE- AU Series III Ford Falcon". marks.htmlplanet.com. Retrieved 12 November 2017.
  29. ^ "The Ford R5 is a concept car well within the realms of possibility". GoAuto. 16 November 2000. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
  30. ^ "Ford Falcon RTV Ute : Road Test / News & Reports / Motoring / Web Wombat". www.webwombat.com.au.
  31. ^ "Full-time 4WD for Ford's R5 ute; Commodore trayback ute in the pipeline". Drive.com.au. 1 March 2001. Retrieved 25 April 2015.
  32. ^ "Ford R5 Concept (2001)". netcarshow.com.
  33. ^ "Falcon coupe's future uncertain". GoAuto.com.au. 3 May 2001. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
  34. ^ "Falcon coupe project stalls as Ford puts Falcon 300+ ball back in AEC's court". GoAuto.com.au. 23 April 2001. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
  35. ^ . Archived from the original on 6 May 2005. Retrieved 24 April 2015.
  36. ^ "AutoSpeed - Sharp Attack". www.autospeed.com.

External links edit

  • AU Falcon Facts

ford, falcon, complete, overview, falcon, models, ford, falcon, australia, full, size, that, produced, ford, australia, from, 1998, 2002, sixth, generation, ford, falcon, also, included, ford, fairmont, luxury, oriented, model, range, series, replaced, falcon,. For a complete overview of all Falcon models see Ford Falcon Australia The Ford Falcon AU is a full size car that was produced by Ford Australia from 1998 to 2002 It was the sixth generation Ford Falcon and also included the Ford Fairmont AU the luxury oriented model range The AU series replaced the EL Falcon and was constructed on the at the time new EA169 platform which continued to harbour Falcon models until 2010 when the BF wagon was discontinued and Ford Territory models until 2011 The AU series was replaced by the updated BA series Ford Falcon AU Ford Fairmont sedan Series III OverviewManufacturerFord AustraliaAlso calledFord Fairmont AU FTE TE50FTE TS50ProductionSeptember 1998 September 2002AssemblyBroadmeadowsBody and chassisClassFull size carBody style4 door sedan5 door station wagonLayoutFR layoutPlatformEA169RelatedFord Fairlane AU Ford LTD AU PowertrainEngine4 0 L Intech I6 petrol 4 0 L Intech E Gas I6 LPG 4 0 L Intech HP I6 petrol 4 0 L Intech VCT I6 petrol 5 0 L Windsor V8 petrol 10 0 L Synergy 5000 V8 petrol 5 6 L Windsor V8 petrol Transmission4 speed M93LE automatic I6 4 speed M97LE automatic V8 5 speed Tremec T 5 manualDimensionsWheelbase2 793 mm 110 0 in 3 096 mm 121 9 in Length4 907 mm 193 2 in 5 077 mm 199 9 in Width1 870 mm 74 in 6 969 mm 274 4 in Height1 437 mm 56 6 in Curb weight1 437 1 645 kg 3 168 3 627 lb ChronologyPredecessorFord Falcon EL SuccessorFord Falcon BA Contents 1 Development and design 2 Model range 2 1 Series I AU 2 2 Series II AU II 2 3 Series III AU III 2 4 FTE T series 2 5 Verte Automotive 2 6 Hillier Coupes 2 7 Concept cars 3 Motorsports 4 References 5 External linksDevelopment and design editThe AU series was conceived under Project Eagle that began in February 1993 and gained the official codename EA169 in October 1994 1 It was developed and brought to market in 1998 only after Ford Australia had given consideration to a revamped fifth generation Falcon and a fully imported replacement such as the American front wheel drive Ford Taurus or rear wheel drive Ford Crown Victoria the European rear wheel drive Scorpio 2 and reportedly even the Japanese rear wheel drive Mazda 929 3 then part of the Ford conglomerate nbsp nbsp nbsp Cutaways of the 1998 Ford Fairmont Ghia The above alternatives were eliminated in favour of a substantial redesign of the indigenous platform due to concerns about the Australian market preference for high towing capacity large interior size and local employment Specific factors included for example research at the time indicated that 69 of Falcons were fitted with towbars and the perception that rear wheel drive cars were better at towing the fact that the import models had limited body style options sedan only or sedan and wagon and no capability to use a V8 engine 3 Stylistically this new generation Falcon sported Ford s radically new global design language labelled New Edge The aim of this design was to attract a younger generation of buyers with avant garde looks 4 however in Australia it polarized public opinion to the benefit of the more organically designed rival the 1997 Holden Commodore VT The AU series had a very efficient drag coefficient of Cd 0 295 for the sedan an 11 improvement over the preceding EL series and 0 34 for the wagon 5 6 For the first time in Falcon s history Independent Rear Suspension IRS became available as standard on some models and optional on others It also featured Australian production firsts such as Variable Cam Timing VCT on some 6 cylinder models and an adaptive automatic transmission on the high performance T series with steering wheel gear shifting buttons 7 Key changes from the fifth generation Falcon included a 35 kg 77 lb reduction in weight for the base car 17 5 per cent stiffer bodyshell and an eight per cent improvement in fuel consumption 8 Peculiarly Ford Australia decided to use the original 1950 s font for the new Falcon and Futura badges As stated previously the AU was the first Falcon to offer IRS a double wishbone design on an isolated subframe IRS was made available as a costly option on the base Forte Fairmont and S models and standard on Fairmont Ghia XR6 VCT and XR8 models The updated 6 cylinder engines incorporated advanced features such as VCT on some models and a temperature sensor in the cylinder head which detected coolant loss and allowed the car to limp home safely by cutting cylinders The engine range comprised the base Intech model producing 157 kW 211 hp with a revised cylinder head featuring smaller valve stems larger exhaust valves and different rocker ratio as well as a revised piston and longer conrod and a cast aluminium cross bolted oil sump with the same power output as the EL series an HP version reserved to the XR6 producing 164 kW 220 hp thanks to unique cylinder head reshaped inlet port redesigned exhaust port open combustion chamber shape to restrict pre detonation from hot spot areas unique camshaft higher fuel pressure recalibrated EEC V engine management system the VCT version producing 172 kW 231 hp for the XR6 VCT a Windsor V8 producing 185 kW 248 hp also carried over from the EL series but without major upgrades 9 Transmissions were improved for better shift feel and the auto was recalibrated to better suit the upgraded engines The six and eight cylinder models had a 4 speed BTR M93LE and M97LE automatic transmission respectively The automatic XR series models had an adaptive shift with five shifting strategies depending on driving conditions The manual transmission where available was a 5 speed T5 model 9 The program cost A 700 million before product launch 10 and key staff included chief designer Steve Park and Marcus Hotblack Manager of Interior Design Model range editSeries I AU edit The first series of the AU Falcon was launched in September 1998 and remained on sale until a major upgrade in April 2000 It was marketed under the new slogan I ve come a long way baby 11 The standard AU range included Falcon Forte 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan Wagon 157 kW 211 hp 357 N m 263 lb ft Falcon Forte 5 0L Windsor V8 Sedan 175 kW 235 hp 395 N m 291 lb ft Falcon Futura 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan Wagon 157 kW 211 hp 357 N m 263 lb ft Falcon S 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan 157 kW 211 hp 357 N m 263 lb ft Falcon XR6 4 0L HP Intech 6 cyl Sedan 164 kW 220 hp 366 N m 270 lb ft Falcon XR6 VCT 4 0L Intech VCT 6 cyl Sedan 172 kW 231 hp 374 N m 276 lb ft Falcon XR8 5 0L Windsor V8 Sedan 185 kW 248 hp 412 N m 304 lb ft Fairmont 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan Wagon 157 kW 211 hp 357 N m 263 lb ft Fairmont Ghia 4 0L Intech VCT 6 cyl Sedan 168 kW 225 hp 370 N m 270 lb ft Fairmont Ghia 5 0L Windsor V8 Sedan 175 kW 235 hp 395 N m 291 lb ft Tickford Vehicle Engineering was responsible for the XR models that carried the Tickford wings badge From July 1999 12 the newly formed Ford Tickford Experience FTE launched the following higher specification and performance T series T1 models TE50 5 0L Synergy 5000 V8 Sedan 200 kW 270 hp 420 N m 310 lb ft TS50 5 0L Synergy 5000 V8 Sedan 220 kW 300 hp 435 N m 321 lb ft automatic only The new Forte model was the replacement of the old GLi designation It was designed and marketed to attract to fleet buyers as well as younger more inexperienced drivers When new the car was competitively priced at A 30 690 with automatic transmission and air conditioning at the time an option on the other Australian made rivals fitted as standard The more up spec model was called the Falcon Futura which was marketed as a family oriented safety package in the same vogue as the rival Holden Commodore Acclaim The Futura differed from the Forte in having a body coloured grille standard ABS cruise control alloy wheels and a digital clock fitted in the centre console series I only 13 The price of the car when new was A 34 990 14 The Ford Falcon S for Sporty sedan was also based on the Forte but designed as an entry level sports edition It achieved this through additional features such as body coloured grille alloy wheels S decals on the rear quarters and bootlid and a high level spoiler The colour choices were limited to Venom Red Liquid Silver White Galaxy Metallic Blue and Silhouette Black Ford eventually offered a ESP option pack that added an LSD equipped IRS and ABS to the S pack 15 The XR series was the high performance end of the range It originally comprised the XR6 HP XR6 VCT and XR8 models all sharing a unique quad lamp front bumper bar and non high end bonnet All series I XR s could have the option of a full Tickford bodykit and unique bi plane rear spoiler The Fairmont was the entry level luxury model of the AU range to face off its main rival the Holden Berlina It had all of the fittings of the Futura but included extras such as a honeycomb grille an 80 second headlamp off delay wood grain look dash inserts unique 15 wheels dual horns Fairmont badging on the boot lid and an analogue clock The Fairmont was offered in sedan and station wagon bodystyles Above the Fairmont was the Fairmont Ghia which was the highest non performance specification model in the range and sedan only It had additional features that included unique 16 wheels toggleable traction control 4 channel ABS 250 watt audio system with separate amplifier 11 speakers and more wood grain look dash inserts Fairmont amp Fairmont Ghia models were not badged as Falcons In terms of safety equipment the Futura XR and Fairmont models all had ABS brakes in addition to a driver s airbag which was the only main safety feature on the Falcon S and Forte The brakes featured 287x24 mm vented front discs and 287x10 5 mm solid rear discs 9 External model differentiation was achieved via the use of different grilles and bonnets low bonnet and vertical salad slicer grille on Forte horizontal single bar on Futura integrated quad lamp bumper bar and grille on the XR sports range high bonnet and large grille on Fairmont range and more basic fittings such as different alloy wheel designs rear light clusters clear turn signals on Fairmont body colour coordination and chrome fittings The wagons featured a new rear end relative to the previous generation Falcons Inside the Fairmont and XR model featured full instrumentation oil and battery meters and the Fairmont twins also adopted a different dashboard As opposed to the standard Falcon featuring a large oval pod incorporating air conditioning and stereo the luxury twin featured a 2 level shared with the long wheelbase AU Fairlane LTD with a separate upper level featuring a woodgrain like trim across to the passenger side that incorporated an analogue clock trip computer and climate control Only the Falcon XR6 VCT and Fairmont Ghia featured Intech engines produced by Tickford Vehicle Engineering with variable valve timing The VCT was developed by Tickford in conjunction with Unisia Jecs who also supplied Jaguar for its V8 engines 16 IRS was fitted as standard on the Falcon XR6 VCT XR8 and Fairmont Ghia and optional on most other sedan models the XR models being the only ones that could also be fitted with a limited slip differential Despite competitive pricing and high standard equipment relative to its rivals especially for the new entry level Forte sales of the AU did not match those of the previous model the EL Falcon This was partly due to a lack of enthusiasm by customers for the New Edge styling alteration of fleet sale pricing as well as the long term decline in the market for large cars In May 1999 the AU range received a minor update introducing a bigger brake booster front power windows for the Forte and XR6 and lowering the rear suspension of non XR variants by 24 mm To heighten its interior quality the Forte was offered with medium graphite interior trim slightly darker than originally and the patterned seat material was changed from the bolsters to the seat centres Buyers were also able to order the darker warm charcoal colour scheme of other Falcon variants 9 The only limited edition launched with this initial series was the Falcon Classic of June 1999 marketed till October 1999 9 to boost sales It inherited an eggcrate grille from the non XR Utility range dual airbags ABS brakes cruise control upgraded sound system a warm charcoal interior power aerial special trim 15 inch alloys low profile rear spoiler bumper inserts and paint Its recommended retail price was A 30 690 17 Utility The range of AU Falcon Utility vehicles was launched in June 1999 It offered Falcon XL XLS XR6 and XR8 style side utility models a cab chassis model and a cab chassis with factory fitted drop side tray 18 The latter was the first tray utility vehicle that Ford Australia had produced for several years The body of the AU Falcon utility differed in design from the competing Holden Ute in that the cargo tray was separate from the cab whereas the tray was an integral part of the body shell in the Holden As a result this allowed the rear to accept different after market body types including tray decks service bodies and camper van shells Unlike the sedan the AU Falcon utility vehicles were very popular amongst tradespeople and individuals alike nbsp Falcon Forte nbsp Falcon Forte wagon nbsp Falcon Classic nbsp Falcon Classic nbsp Falcon Futura nbsp Falcon Futura nbsp Falcon S nbsp Falcon S nbsp Falcon XR6 nbsp Falcon XR6 nbsp Falcon XR8 nbsp Falcon XR8 with optional rear bi wing nbsp Fairmont nbsp Fairmont nbsp Fairmont Ghia nbsp Falcon XL utility nbsp Falcon XL utility nbsp Falcon XR8 utility Series II AU II edit Many of these issues were addressed with the AU Series II April 2000 They included the high series raised bonnet from the Fairmont models a more conventional and common front grille for the volume Forte and Futura range increase depth and width for the rear bumper a laminated firewall increased under carpet asphalting and rubberised engine mounts to reduce NVH upgraded braking system as detailed below 16 wheels in lieu of the previous 15 due to the larger twin piston calipers lowered ground clearance with new shock absorbers and ball joints higher quality interior plastics e g less oval central dashboard pod with silver highlights standard cloth in lieu of vinyl finishes and darker warm charcoal interiors uprated sound systems upgraded SmartShield security system with a transponder located in the key in lieu of the previous SmartLock that could not prevent thefts with copied keys standard front airbag across the range Body strength increases aimed at improving occupant safety and the Falcon s rating in the independent ANCAP crash test program were also achieved In the said tests it received a three star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 24 2 and in the offset crash test it was found that there was a low risk of injury to all bodily regions including the driver s foot and lower leg due to excessive brake pedal movement New safety features included an airbag and seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters on the front seats across the range Wagons were fitted with a three point lap sash rear centre seatbelt with the retractor integrated into the seat back 9 The braking system now featured thicker front and rear discs twin piston aluminium headed front calipers bigger non asbestos brake pads larger master cylinder and a higher capacity booster The discs were now ventilated 287x28 mm at the front and solid 287x16 mm at the back The XR6 VCT and XR8 were also available with an optional Tickford Premium Brake setup that brought 329 mm grooved front brake discs with twin piston C4 calipers 9 Additional features included the introduction of a 100 watt stereo with single slot CD player variable intermittent wipers and door lock unlock button on the instrument panel and the equipment upgrade such as standard air conditioning front power windows and automatic transmission on the entry Forte model to shrug off initial impressions the low budget perception associated with the first AU series Also across the range Ford now offered 3 years or 60 000 km worth of scheduled servicing included in the purchase price The standard series II range included Falcon Forte 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan Wagon 157 kW 211 hp 357 N m 263 lb ft Falcon Forte 5 0L Windsor V8 Sedan 175 kW 235 hp 395 N m 291 lb ft Falcon S 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan 157 kW 211 hp 357 N m 263 lb ft Falcon Futura 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan Wagon 157 kW 211 hp 357 N m 263 lb ft Fairmont 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan Wagon 157 kW 211 hp 357 N m 263 lb ft Falcon XR6 4 0L Intech 6 cyl Sedan 164 kW 220 hp 366 N m 270 lb ft Falcon XR6 VCT 4 0L Intech VCT 6 cyl Sedan 172 kW 231 hp 374 N m 276 lb ft Falcon XR8 5 0L Windsor V8 Sedan 200 kW 270 hp 420 N m 310 lb ft to April 2001 Falcon XR8 5 0L Windsor V8 Sedan 220 kW 300 hp 435 N m 321 lb ft from May 2001 Fairmont Ghia 4 0L Intech VCT 6 cyl Sedan 168 kW 225 hp 370 N m 270 lb ft Fairmont Ghia 5 0L Windsor V8 Sedan 175 kW 235 hp 395 N m 291 lb ft As listed above the engine range remained largely the same initially except for increased output for the XR8 and the introduction from July 2000 of a dedicated LPG engine marketed as the Intech E Gas It had a single point venturi style carburetor rather than sequential injection as per the petrol engines Other differences included different spark plugs inductive high tension leads and a unique engine management processor The sedans were fitted with a 92 litre LPG cylinder while wagons had 115 litre cylinders 9 Sedan based limited editions included the X Pack a Forte upgrade with a choice of two ROH alloy wheel designs from the Ford accessory line as standard and original XR rear wing SR Forte based S successor now with ABS Futura Classic Futura amp Fairmont Ghia 75th Anniversary sedans to commemorate Ford Australia s birth in 1925 XR8 Rebel featuring a limited edition Ford Racing bodykit 18 inch wheels MOMO steering wheel and gear shift and a Sony PlayStation 2 with Grand Turismo III 9 Augmenting the X Pack in late 2000 Stillwell Ford dealers in South Australia launched a Sportryder variant which added an upgraded and lowered sport suspension using Pedders components plus locally sourced CSA alloy wheels for A 29 990 The Falcon Utility Series II range included the XL XLS XR and XR8 with limited editions including by respective base model Tradesman XL Sports Edition and Marlin XLS Pursuit XR 19 The FTE T2 range comprised TE50 5 0L Synergy 5000 V8 Sedan 220 kW 300 hp 435 N m 321 lb ft TS50 5 0L Synergy 5000 V8 Sedan 220 kW 300 hp 435 N m 321 lb ft nbsp Falcon Forte Series II nbsp Falcon Forte Series II nbsp Forte X Pack Series II nbsp Forte X Pack Series II nbsp Falcon Futura wagon Series II nbsp Falcon Futura wagon Series II nbsp Falcon XR8 Rebel Series II nbsp Fairmont Series II nbsp Fairmont Ghia Series II nbsp Fairmont Ghia 75th Anniversary Series II Series III AU III edit This final AU based Falcon was presented at the Sydney Motorshow in November 2001 by surprise 20 The Falcon s Series III range reflected that of the AU II except for the discontinuance of the Falcon S a limited edition Falcon XR6 VCT ST with unique Ford Racing bodykit from the XR8 Rebel a Falcon XR8 Pursuit 250 Utility by TVE 250 kW upgrade FTE additionally introduced more powerful T3 models as follows TE50 5 6L Windsor V8 Sedan 249 8 kW 335 0 hp 500 N m 370 lb ft TS50 5 6L Windsor V8 Sedan 249 8 kW 335 0 hp 500 N m 370 lb ft Externally the Series III featured body coloured mirrors and side strips plus standard side skirts and different wheels on some models Headlights became a shade darker side indicators clear and a dot matrix windscreen was added to reduce sun glare In terms of interiors additional features were added as standard Futura rear power windows and velour trim Fairmont 6 way power adjustable driver s seat Fairmont Ghia 10 way power adjustable driver s seat and leather trim Though ABS became standard across the range the XR models lost equipment XR6 limited slip differential LSD now optional all XR s stereo downgrade to a 4 speaker single CD unit A bodykit marketed as Havoc with new front and rear bumpers featuring stainless mesh inserts fog lights side skirts and an optional rear spoiler 21 became optional on all Falcons with XR8 buyers also having the choice of a Tickford bodykit or the Ford Racing bodykit originally featured on the AU II Falcon XR8 Rebel Fairmont and XR could also optioned with the REX Rear Entertainment XTreme package allowing rear passenger to play DVD movies or connect game consoles The combined production of Falcon Series II and III to September 2002 totaled 237 701 units As of 2020 there are 44 816 AU Falcon s registered in Australia 17 192 of which are within Victoria or equating to around 38 of the national fleet As of 2023 there are approximately 2 004 AU falcons left registered in New South Wales nbsp Falcon Forte sedan Series III nbsp Falcon SR sedan Series III nbsp Falcon Futura sedan Series III nbsp Falcon Futura wagon Series III nbsp Falcon XR6 sedan Series III nbsp Falcon XR8 sedan Series III nbsp Falcon XR8 Series III nbsp Fairmont sedan Series III FTE T series edit See also Tickford Vehicle Engineering nbsp FTE TS50 T3 nbsp FTE TE50 T2 nbsp FTE TS50 T3 nbsp FTE TE50 T2 Due to inadequate sales of Ford performance sedans and Holdens success with its 5 7 litre GM produced V8 on its Commodore range Ford were forced to up the ante with the XR8 and the other Falcon derived higher performance sedans that could give buyers a comparable between the two brands and aid the sales Accordingly Ford Tickford Experience FTE was established as a joint venture between Ford Australia and Tickford Vehicle Engineering TVE As listed above the resulting T series range comprised the short wheelbase TE50 and TS50 plus the long wheelbase TL50 based on the Fairlane In addition to higher mechanical specifications and performance this range also benefitted from a FTE Premium Assist service with enhanced ownership benefits 22 Between 1999 and 2002 there were three T series based on the respective Falcon series T1 AU T2 AU II and T3 AU III Their powerplant was a modified Windsor V8 renamed Synergy 5000 that were hand built and featured an engraved plaque bearing the name of its builder 7 Over the AU II and AU III period the production of the Windsor was phased out with remaining units shipped to FTE becoming the most powerful naturally aspirated electronically fuel injected EFI Windsor engines in the world used to make the Ford Falcon XR8 sedan and the Pursuit 250 utility These last batch of engines were named the Windsor Stroker FTE increased the displacement of the Stroker to 5 6 litres The TE50 was available with a 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission The TS50 and TL50 which were not available in manual only had the automatic transmission with Electronic Sport Shift ESS This feature was an Australian production first in that it was the first locally made car to have steering wheel mounted buttons that permitted manual gear shifting 7 Inside all models featured a MOMO steering wheels and could be optioned with an upgraded Brembo braking system 23 Externally FTE aimed for a more sophisticated look compared to its wilder styled rival Holden Special Vehicles The cars had distinctive front and rear styling highlighted by a chrome mesh grille 17 inch and 18 inch alloy wheels on the TE50 and TS50 models respectively and discreet low profile rear spoilers for the T1 series The T2 saw the TE50 feature the XR style rear wing whereas the TS50 retained the low profile version All T3 models featured 18 inch wheels and louder V8 Racing inspired bodykits with high profile rear wings 24 Verte Automotive edit In the UK AU utilities were imported by Verte Automotive then a subsidiary of AC Cars as the Verte Tempest from March 2002 Sold in XL and XLS trim levels it was powered by the 4 0 litre inline six on LPG only 25 From the last quarter of 2002 plans included powering the AC Green and Black coupes with the same engine LPG and petrol respectively and eventually selling a range of Tempest XR6 and XR8 utes and sedans ahead of the Tempest T Series and the long wheelbase Fairlane LTD duo 26 These plans however never eventuated Hillier Coupes edit In 2000 the Hillier brothers created a two door AU Falcon Coupe based on an forte spec ex police car This then debuted at the Summernats car festival that year Following a deal with Ford Australia the green car then became the red 300 concept that then debuted at the 2001 Melbourne motor show in order to obtain some interest away from the Holden Monaro stand at the motor show which served as a marketing ploy Following this Roman AutoTek now AutoTek approached the Hillier Brothers to produce another show car however this time it would be made with a more extreme guise The Ford Arrow coupe then debuted the following year at the 2002 Melbourne motor show Hillier with AEC and Ford began to plan a low production run of 100 Hillier coupes which they planned to sell for 135 000 Orders were then taken for up to 20 cars instead of the original 100 and Ford then left the project killing off the Hillier Coupe from small scale production 27 Only three coupes were made the Ford 300 concept car the Autotek Arrow Coupe and a red XR8 coupe Concept cars edit nbsp Ford R5 concept Eager to improve Falcon s reception Ford Australia and other companies presented a number of concept cars that were based on this sixth generation Falcon over time These included 19 21 28 R5 utility unveiled at the 2000 Sydney Motor Show this was a 220 kW 300 hp V8 powered crew cab featuring rear suicide doors and ground clearance increased by 75 mm 29 it foreshadowed both the new design BA Falcon s dashboard as well as the 2003 standard cab but elevated BA Falcon RTV utility range 30 moreover when displayed again at the 2001 Melbourne Motor Show it switched from rear wheel drive to all wheel drive as part of Ford Australia s then future plans for such a platform 31 the concept was painted in a special Uluru Sunset paint whose hues changed from yellow to purple depending on light conditions 32 Falcon XR8 Xplod sedan unveiled in 2001 but never produced it was a concept car painted in a distinctive Firestorm gold paint and powered by a 200 kW 270 hp 5 0 Litre V8 engine benefitting from a custom Remus exhaust system and Pacemaker extractors it also featured a full Tickford body kit with bonnet air scoops and Premium brake system 18 inch MOMO alloy wheels a black gold Recaro leather trimmed interior driving seats and importantly a Sony Xplod audio and DVD system from which it derived its name 21 Falcon 300 coupe unveiled at the 2001 Melbourne Motor Show this car was produced by Advanced Engine Components AEC and Miller Design at a cost of A 1 million with production aspirations originally supported by Ford Australia s Geoff Polites it was fitted with a Fairmont interior and a supercharged Ford Mustang sourced 4 6 Litre engine which developed 350 kW 470 hp for a 0 100 km h 0 62 mph sprint in 4 6 seconds despite an intended run of at least 100 units and 15 firm orders it never reached full production 33 34 Arrow coupe unveiled at the 2002 Melbourne Motor Show this was a more extreme coupe interpretation of the then current Falcon by aftermarket distributor Autotek and coachwork company Hillier Conversions it featured an aggressive restyled front and was built in limited numbers at a price of A 100 000 to A 140 000 depending on specifications 35 36 Motorsports edit nbsp Ford AU Falcon XR8 of Gibson Motorsport 2001 Despite its highly anticipated competitiveness that was hoped the AU would bring to Ford in the V8 Supercars Championship and the return of a works Ford team in its debut season of 1999 the aerodynamically challenged AU had very limited success winning only 8 out of 52 rounds in its 4 years of competition During those 52 championship rounds the AU Falcon also scored 22 pole positions or a much healthier 42 percent of all poles which included three at the high speed Mount Panorama circuit at Bathurst The AU also claimed 46 fastest race laps of the 125 races held during that time or 36 percent The AU overall won 23 out of the 125 races in total which is roughly 19 percent total races won The AU would be the only Falcon in the modern V8 Supercar era to not win a championship or a Bathurst 1000 Its most famous wins would be in the 2001 Queensland 500 by Paul Radisich and Steven Johnson in their 17 Shell Helix DJR Falcon And again in 2002 with David Besnard and Simon Wills in their 9 Caltex Havoline SBR Falcon The lack of success by Ford during the late 1990s and early 2000s prompted V8 Supercars to introduce a new platform known as Project Blueprint that would make the competition more evenly matched Privateer racer Trevor Haines raced a TE50 to 13th place in the 2002 Australian GT Production Car Championship and later the team finished 9th outright and a Class 5 win in the 2002 Bathurst 24 Hour Warren Luff took back to back victories in 2002 and 2003 V8 Brute Ute s series racing an AU Falcon XR8 ute The AU falcon has also been raced in the Australian saloon car series and has been very successful References edit The Falcon Story Wheels Sydney 44 October 1998 The Falcon Story Wheels Sydney 45 October 1998 a b AU Falcon 1998 2000 Falcon Facts 22 January 2009 Retrieved 18 February 2015 AU Falcon A Dedicated Australian Web Publications Pty Limited 3 September 1998 Archived from the original on 8 July 2012 Retrieved 9 July 2007 The AU Falcon A New Edge to an Australian Icon Advances at a Glance AutoWeb com au 3 September 1998 Archived from the original on 18 January 2016 Retrieved 9 January 2016 Edgar Julian 17 December 2002 The Aerodynamic Development of the VY Commodore Part 1 AutoSpeed com au Retrieved 9 January 2016 a b c fte tech document www eccosoftware com au Archived from the original on 11 May 2015 Retrieved 25 April 2015 Kenwright Joe 1 April 2005 Holden VT VX Commodore 1997 2002 AND Ford Falcon AU 1998 2002 CarPoint Australia ninemsn Retrieved 24 June 2008 a b c d e f g h i Review Ford AU Falcon 1998 02 Australian Car Reviews Archived from the original on 18 October 2015 Retrieved 23 April 2015 News 2 September 2020 Smith Graham 22 January 2009 Ford Falcon AU 1998 2000 model watch Herald Sun Retrieved 18 September 2009 aufalcon com Home of the Ford AU Falcon Club Australian Ford Falcon AU Series Club for Members www aufalcon com The new Falcon Fairmont and XR AU sales brochure FCL 7384 November 1998 pages 13 14 drive com au 4 October 2016 2009 BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics hybrid concept Drive drive com au 10 October 2016 Putting the S back into Sport drive com au Tickford The Joy of Driving by Gavin Farmer Ford Classic Speculation Pages True Blue Ford com trueblueford com Ford AU Ute New Car Buyer No 15 2000 pages 30 33 a b Marks Site Ford Falcon Retrieved 23 April 2015 AUIII Falcon 2001 2002 Falcon Facts Retrieved 18 February 2015 a b c MARKS SITE AUII Ford Falcon marks htmlplanet com Retrieved 12 November 2017 Ford Tickford Experience set for Launch in October Archived 2012 03 28 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved 29 November 2008 Technical Specs T2 coming soon T Series Club of Australia www tseriesclub org Archived from the original on 15 November 2014 Verte Tempest Archived from the original on 19 October 2015 Falcons for Britain GoAuto Retrieved 19 October 2015 Falcon Coupe Killed Off CarsGuide Retrieved 28 August 2018 MARKS SITE AU Series III Ford Falcon marks htmlplanet com Retrieved 12 November 2017 The Ford R5 is a concept car well within the realms of possibility GoAuto 16 November 2000 Retrieved 24 April 2015 Ford Falcon RTV Ute Road Test News amp Reports Motoring Web Wombat www webwombat com au Full time 4WD for Ford s R5 ute Commodore trayback ute in the pipeline Drive com au 1 March 2001 Retrieved 25 April 2015 Ford R5 Concept 2001 netcarshow com Falcon coupe s future uncertain GoAuto com au 3 May 2001 Retrieved 24 April 2015 Falcon coupe project stalls as Ford puts Falcon 300 ball back in AEC s court GoAuto com au 23 April 2001 Retrieved 24 April 2015 Ford Arrow Archived from the original on 6 May 2005 Retrieved 24 April 2015 AutoSpeed Sharp Attack www autospeed com External links edit nbsp Wikimedia Commons has media related to Ford Falcon AU AU Falcon Facts Retrieved from https en wikipedia org w index php title Ford Falcon AU amp oldid 1220058902, wikipedia, wiki, book, books, library,

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