Ford Australia Falcon EL GT

vs

Ford Australia Falcon BF GT

Australia vs Australia — 1988 vs 1998

Ford Australia Falcon EL GT (1988)
Ford Australia Falcon BF GT (1998)
Specifications
Falcon EL GT 5.0 V8Falcon BF GT Boss 290 V8
Horsepower185 hp389 hp
Torque280 lb-ft383 lb-ft
Engine Size4,942 cc5,408 cc
0-60 mph7.5 sec4.9 sec
Top Speed140 mph162 mph
¼ Mile15.5 sec13.1 sec
Weight3,549 lbs3,913 lbs
Wheelbase2,778 mm2,830 mm
Length4,907 mm4,936 mm
Units Produced250
Value (Excellent)$75,000$80,000
Collectibility7/108/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

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 1988 Ford Australia Falcon EL GT 5.0 V8 counters with lighter weight, 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.

Overview

The Ford Australia Falcon EL GT lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1988 Ford Australia Falcon EL GT 5.0 V8 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 185 hp, a 204-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Australia Falcon EL GT 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 7.5 seconds. The Ford Australia Falcon EL GT carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 364 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.