Ford Australia Falcon BF GT Boss 290 V8
The Ford Performance Vehicles BF GT represented the zenith of V8 Falcon performance in the mid-2000s. Powered by the supercharged Boss 290 engine, a development of the quad-cam 5.4-liter V8 fitted with an Eaton supercharger, the BF GT produced a thunderous 290 kilowatts (389 horsepower) and 520 Nm of torque. This made it one of the most powerful Australian-built cars of its era and a genuine rival to the best performance sedans from around the world.
The Boss 290 engine was a masterwork of Ford Performance Vehicles' engineering team. Starting with the already impressive naturally aspirated Boss 260 quad-cam V8, FPV added a roots-type Eaton supercharger with integrated intercooler, revised engine management calibration, and strengthened internals to handle the increased stress. The result was an engine that combined massive low-end torque with a thrilling top-end rush, all accompanied by a supercharger whine that was music to enthusiasts' ears.
The BF GT offered buyers a choice between the Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission and a ZF six-speed automatic, with the manual being the enthusiast's choice. A limited-slip differential was standard, essential for managing the prodigious torque at the rear wheels. Even so, the BF GT required a degree of respect in wet conditions, as 290 kilowatts through the rear wheels of a 1,775-kilogram sedan could overwhelm the tires with surprising ease.
FPV's engineers developed the chassis specifically for the GT application. Brembo four-piston front brake calipers with 355mm ventilated rotors provided enormous stopping power. The suspension was tuned with unique spring rates, damper settings, and anti-roll bar calibration to deliver both engaging handling and acceptable ride quality for daily use. The 19-inch alloy wheels wore high-performance tires to provide the grip needed for the car's performance.
The BF GT was visually distinguished from standard Falcons by its unique front bumper with enlarged air intakes, bonnet scoops for supercharger clearance, body-colored side skirts, and a rear spoiler. The interior featured deeply bolstered sports seats with GT embroidery, an alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, alloy pedals, and an FPV-specific instrument cluster with boost gauge.
The BF GT competed directly with Holden's HSV GTS in what was arguably the golden age of Australian performance sedan rivalry. Both cars offered world-class performance at a fraction of the cost of equivalent European machinery, and the battle between them energized the Australian automotive enthusiast community.
With Ford Australia's closure in 2016, the BF GT has become an increasingly collectible piece of automotive history. It represents the pinnacle of supercharged V8 Falcon performance and a uniquely Australian approach to the performance sedan concept.
The Boss 290 supercharged engine is generally reliable but check for supercharger bearing noise and boost leaks. Ensure the intercooler system is in good condition. The T-56 manual is robust but check for clutch slip if used for hard launches. Service history from FPV-accredited dealers is important.
The BF GT was produced by Ford Performance Vehicles at their Campbellfield facility from 2005 to 2008. Each supercharged engine was assembled and dyno-tested individually.