USA vs Australia — 1964 vs 1971
| GTO 389 Tri-Power | Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 348 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 428 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,375 cc | 5,766 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.6 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,400 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,921 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 5,181 mm | 4,870 mm |
| Units Produced | 32,450 | 300 |
| Original MSRP | $2,852 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power excels in more power, stronger collectibility, better value, while the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) stands out for quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power against the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Australia. The 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power holds a clear advantage in raw power with 348 hp compared to 300 hp, a 48-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac GTO uses a V8 OHV (Pontiac 389) displacing 6,375 cc, while the Ford Falcon relies on a V8 OHV with 5,766 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 300 units built, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac GTO's 32,450 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) commands a significant premium over the 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.