USA vs Australia — 1968 vs 1971
| GTO 400 Ram Air | Falcon GT-HO Phase III | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 366 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 445 lb-ft | 360 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,555 cc | 5,763 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 5,131 mm | 4,900 mm |
| Units Produced | 87,684 | 300 |
| Original MSRP | $3,101 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $110,000 | $1,400,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
The 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. That said, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III 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.
Putting the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air against the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Australia. The 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air holds a clear advantage in raw power with 366 hp compared to 300 hp, a 66-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac GTO uses a V8 OHV (Pontiac 400) displacing 6,555 cc, while the Ford Falcon relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 5,763 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 300 units built, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac GTO's 87,684 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III commands a significant premium over the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.