Australia vs Australia — 1979 vs 1968
| Falcon XD ESP V8 | Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 224 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,942 cc | 5,752 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 127 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,197 lbs | 3,208 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,770 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 4,775 mm | 4,840 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 400 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $800,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
The 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1979 Ford Australia Falcon XD ESP V8 counters with better value, 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 XD lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1979 Ford Australia Falcon XD ESP V8 with the 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II reveals how Ford Australia refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 224 hp, a 76-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1968 Ford Australia Falcon GT XW GTHO Phase II commands a significant premium over the 1979 Ford Australia Falcon XD ESP 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.