Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8

vs

Ford Australia Falcon GT XW

Australia vs Australia — 1998 vs 1968

Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 (1998)
Ford Australia Falcon GT XW (1968)
Specifications
Falcon BA XR8 Boss 260 V8Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II
Horsepower260 hp300 hp
Torque332 lb-ft350 lb-ft
Engine Size5,408 cc5,752 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec6.4 sec
Top Speed155 mph140 mph
¼ Mile14.1 sec14.4 sec
Weight3,704 lbs3,208 lbs
Wheelbase2,830 mm2,819 mm
Length4,920 mm4,840 mm
Units Produced400
Value (Excellent)$55,000$800,000
Collectibility7/109/10
Rarity5/109/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 Boss 260 V8 brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II answers with more power, lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Few model names carry as much weight as the Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8. The 1998 and 1968 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 260 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 uses a V8 DOHC displacing 5,408 cc, while the Ford Australia Falcon GT XW relies on a V8 OHV with 5,752 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 Boss 260 V8 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. The Ford Australia Falcon GT XW carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 496 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II commands a significant premium over the 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 Boss 260 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.