Australia vs Australia — 1973 vs 1988
| Falcon GT XB GT Hardtop | Falcon EL GT 5.0 V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 185 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,763 cc | 4,942 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 15.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,351 lbs | 3,549 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,819 mm | 2,778 mm |
| Length | 4,903 mm | 4,907 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 250 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1973 Ford Australia Falcon GT XB GT Hardtop makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, lighter weight. However, the 1988 Ford Australia Falcon EL GT 5.0 V8 counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1973 Ford Australia Falcon GT XB GT Hardtop for outright capability, or the 1988 Ford Australia Falcon EL GT 5.0 V8 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Ford Australia Falcon GT. The 1973 and 1988 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1973 Ford Australia Falcon GT XB GT Hardtop holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 185 hp, a 115-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Ford Australia Falcon GT XB GT Hardtop edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1973 Ford Australia Falcon GT XB GT Hardtop commands a significant premium over the 1988 Ford Australia Falcon EL GT 5.0 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1973 Ford Australia Falcon GT XB GT Hardtop rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.