Australia vs Australia — 1998 vs 1972
| Falcon BA XR8 Boss 260 V8 | Falcon XA GT-HO Phase IV | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 332 lb-ft | 380 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,408 cc | 5,752 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,704 lbs | 3,483 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,830 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 4,920 mm | 4,858 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 0 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 Boss 260 V8 brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1972 Ford Australia Falcon XA GT-HO Phase IV answers with more power, lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8. The 1998 and 1972 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1972 Ford Australia Falcon XA GT-HO Phase IV holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 260 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 uses a V8 DOHC displacing 5,408 cc, while the Ford Australia Falcon relies on a V8 OHV with 5,752 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 Boss 260 V8 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Ford Australia Falcon carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 221 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1972 Ford Australia Falcon XA GT-HO Phase IV commands a significant premium over the 1998 Ford Australia Falcon BA XR8 Boss 260 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1972 Ford Australia Falcon XA GT-HO Phase IV rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.