USA vs Australia — 1962 vs 1971
| Nova SS | Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 360 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,736 cc | 5,766 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,050 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,794 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 4,648 mm | 4,870 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 300 |
| Original MSRP | $2,540 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1962 Chevrolet Nova SS brings stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between USA and Australia automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1962 Chevrolet Nova SS versus 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1962 Chevrolet Nova SS producing 300 hp and the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) delivering 300 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chevrolet Nova uses a V8 OHV (small-block) displacing 5,736 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 6.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) commands a significant premium over the 1962 Chevrolet Nova SS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1962 Chevrolet Nova SS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.