Australia vs Australia — 1973 vs 1998
| Falcon XC Cobra Hardtop | Falcon BF GT Boss 290 V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 161 hp | 389 hp |
| Torque | 254 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,942 cc | 5,408 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 121 mph | 162 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 13.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,307 lbs | 3,913 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,819 mm | 2,830 mm |
| Length | 4,870 mm | 4,936 mm |
| Units Produced | 400 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $450,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
The 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BF GT Boss 290 V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1973 Ford Australia Falcon XC Cobra Hardtop counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Ford Australia Falcon XC Cobra lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1973 Ford Australia Falcon XC Cobra Hardtop with the 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BF GT Boss 290 V8 reveals how Ford Australia refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BF GT Boss 290 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 389 hp compared to 161 hp, a 228-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Australia Falcon XC Cobra uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,942 cc, while the Ford Australia Falcon BF GT relies on a V8 DOHC with 5,408 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BF GT Boss 290 V8 edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. The Ford Australia Falcon XC Cobra carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 606 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1973 Ford Australia Falcon XC Cobra Hardtop commands a significant premium over the 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BF GT Boss 290 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.