XR (1966 to 1968)

Introduced in 1966, the Ford Falcon XR marked a turning point in Australian motoring history as the first Falcon engineered specifically for local conditions and, crucially, the first Australian Falcon to offer V8 power. Built in sedan, wagon, and utility body styles, the XR range featured improved suspension, steering, and durability over the earlier XP, finally shedding the Falcon’s fragile reputation. Engine options ranged from robust inline-six units to 289 and later 302 cu.in. V8s, laying the foundation for Ford Australia’s future performance dominance. The XR also spawned the XR GT, developed for touring car racing and Bathurst competition, establishing the Falcon as a serious performance contender. Approximately 168,000 XR Falcons were produced between 1966 and 1968. In the Australian market, the XR is highly regarded for its historical importance, with values driven by GT provenance, V8 specification, originality, and body style, as collectors recognise it as the Falcon that truly came of age.