USA vs Australia — 1966 vs 1971
| Charger R/T 440 | Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 375 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 360 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,210 cc | 5,763 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.0 sec | 6.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 14.6 sec |
| Weight | 3,800 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,997 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 5,283 mm | 4,880 mm |
| Units Produced | 96,108 | 250 |
| Original MSRP | $3,506 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
On balance, the 1966 Dodge Charger R/T 440 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. However, the 1971 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop counters with higher top speed, greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1966 Dodge Charger R/T 440 for outright capability, or the 1971 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between USA and Australia automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1966 Dodge Charger R/T 440 versus 1971 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1966 Dodge Charger R/T 440 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 375 hp compared to 300 hp, a 75-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Dodge Charger uses a V8 OHV (RB big-block) displacing 7,210 cc, while the Ford Falcon relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 5,763 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Dodge Charger R/T 440 edges ahead at 6.0 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 Dodge Charger's 96,108 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO 83 Hardtop commands a significant premium over the 1966 Dodge Charger R/T 440, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1966 Dodge Charger R/T 440 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.