USA vs Australia — 1967 vs 1971
| GT500 428 Cobra Jet | Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 440 lb-ft | 360 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,014 cc | 5,763 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 6.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 135 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 14.6 sec |
| Weight | 3,400 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 4,673 mm | 4,880 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,048 | 250 |
| Original MSRP | $4,317 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $300,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. That said, the 1971 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop brings higher top speed, greater rarity and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Ford heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
When USA engineering meets Australia craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet and 1971 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 300 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Shelby GT500 uses a V8 OHV (Ford 428 Cobra Jet) displacing 7,014 cc, while the Ford Falcon relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 5,763 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.8 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 250 units built, the 1971 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop is considerably scarcer than the Shelby GT500's 2,048 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop commands a significant premium over the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1967 Shelby GT500 428 Cobra Jet rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.