Ford XY Falcon GT

The Ford Falcon GT is an automobile which was produced by Ford Australia from 1967 to 1976, briefly in 1992, again in 1997, and then from 2003 to the present day with intermittent limited edition anniversary models offered in between. Since 2003 the car has been marketed as the FPV GT but FPV continue to release anniversary editions commemorating the release of the original 1967 model. The Falcon GT is inextricably linked with the history of Australian muscle car production and with the evolution of Australian domestic motor racing.

Overview

The GT was introduced as a performance variant of the Australian Ford Falcon XR series in 1967. GT variants were also offered in: 1968 XT, 1969 XW, 1971 XY, 1972 XA, 1973 XB models. HO(Handling Options) variants released with XW and XY model ranges, further modified for performance and were essentially homologation specials for motor racing. A XA version of the HO was abandoned in the early stage of development due to public pressure in 1972 after an infamous newspaper campaign.

After a rest of sixteen years the GT badge was revived for a 25th anniversary edition of the 1992 EB series Falcon with a 30th anniversary version offered in 1997 on the EL Falcon. From 2003 the GT badge was inherited by Ford Australia's performance tuning arm, Ford Performance Vehicles and the FPV GT has been offered continuously since 2003 on the BA, BF (2006) and FG (2008) model ranges. The GT badge will be discontinued at the launch of the final 2014 Falcon model.

Falcon (XR) GT

See also: Ford Falcon (XR)
The 1967 XR series was a major shift in the evolution of the Falcon, then still being adapted from its American counterpart for Australian release. The car was noticeably larger compared to the XP model range. For the first time Ford Australia offered a V8 engine on the range, the 289-cubic-inch engine then in use on the Ford Mustang.
Australian Police force took advantage of the option of the powerful V8 engine, with Ford offering a Police Interceptor Pack Falcon, Ford Australia Managing Director, Bill Bourke, then introduced the GT, based around the success of GT versions of the Ford Cortina. The GT Falcon would be marketed in exactly the same way as the GT Cortinas with the competition arm of Ford Australia preparing production racing cars to race at the Bathurst 500.
A charcoal interior consisting of ZA Fairlane bucket seats, wood-grained steering wheel, dash and matching gear knob and special Stewart-Warner instrumentation added to the sporty specification. The XR GT was available in the exclusive GT Gold only, however, 8 were produced in "Gallaher Silver" for promotion of the Gallaher tobacco brand. 5 XR GT's were also finished in a selection of colors at the request of teams to enter them in racing events, with the 1967 Gallaher 500 winning XR GT painted in Ivy Green.
The factory racing team, led by veteran driver/engineer Harry Firth entered two cars, one for himself and Fred Gibson and the other for the Geoghegan brothers, Ian and Leo, though both supplied their own pit crew and each 'team' prepared their own cars. After a day long battle against three Alfa Romeos at Bathurst in 1967, the team emerged with a 1–2 team victory (with Firth and Gibson winning by 11 seconds) which captured the public imagination and sales figures soared. The move forced General Motors-Holden's and Chrysler Australia to respond with their own performance editions of their large sedan in 1968 when neither had such vehicles planned, beginning the era of the Australian muscle car.

Falcon (XT) GT

See also: Ford Falcon (XT)
The XT Falcon saw an increase in capacity of the Windsor V8 to 302c.i. The Color range was also increased, and sales double the amount of the previous range. The XT won the Teams Prize in the 1968 London-Sydney Marathon finishing 3rd, 5th and 8th in the event, against more rally focused opposition.

Falcon (XW) GT

See also: Ford Falcon (XW)
Ford introduced the HO (handling options) package in the 1969 XW model range, creating a 2-tier range, with the HO package essentially a road registerable racing car for the leading production touring car teams to exploit. With the XW Range, the Windsor V8 was now offered in a bigger 351c.i displacement, producing 290 BHP (217KW) and 385 ft/lbs. of torque.

GT-HO Phase I

The first GT-HO variant produced 300 bhp (225KW) due to a larger carburetor, and changes to the camshaft and intake. There were also changes made to the suspension, including stiffer shock absorbers, springs and larger diameter roll bars. Despite the changes made, at the 1969 Hardie-Ferodo 500 poor tire performance meant that drivers had to pit regularly over the opposition. However, a privately entered XW GT-HO of Bruce McPhee and Barry Mulholland claimed second outright.

GT-HO Phase II

In 1970, the Cleveland V8 engine replaced the previous Windsor engines, the 351c.i. Cleveland engine was first used in a small batch of Phase 1 specification XW GT's, these are retrospectively referred to as "Phase 1.5s". Ford modified the engine in the Phase II, with a larger carburetor (700cfm) over the Cleveland's original 600cfm version. Allan Moffat claimed his first Bathurst win at the hands of a Phase II at the 1970 Hardie-Ferodo 500, with Bruce McPhee second, giving Ford Works Team a 1,2 finish.

Falcon (XY) GT

Main article: Ford Falcon (XY) GT
See also: Ford Falcon (XY)
Almost 1 year after the release of the XY Falcon, Ford released the 1971 XY GT. Among the visual changes to the normal falcon range, the XY received the "Shaker scoop" ram-air intake from the1969-70 Mach 1 Mustang. A XY GT starred in the Australian movie Running on Empty, as a GT-HO Phase III.

GT-HO Phase III

The homolgation specials reached their zenith with the Ford Falcon GTHO Phase III in 1971, a car which Allan Moffat used to defeat all opposition in the 1971 Bathurst enduro and would remain the fastest four-door production saloon in the world until the introduction of the Lotus Carlton 19 years later.
A fear campaign against the homolgation specials started with headlines of "160 MPH Street Cars soon!" led to Ford dropping production with the planned Falcon GT HO Phase IV. For their own part, touring car racing regulations were altered, creating the 1973 Group C regulations, which allowed production cars to be modified for racing independently of the road going cars, reducing pressure on manufacturers to put racing modifications into the road cars.
A Ford Falcon GTHO Phase III was the most expensive Australian vehicle sold at auction selling for A$750,000. A previous sale had been for A$683,650.

Falcon (XA) GT

See also: Ford Falcon (XA)
The GT model was continued with the new Australian designed XA, and for the first time, the GT was available as a 2-door Hardtop. The GT received unique front fenders with dummy air vents on the leading edges, and a bonnet featuring NACA-style ducts. Purchasers were now offered a larger range of colour combinations, with the GT black-outs on the bonnet and lower edges of the car now available in silver.

GT-HO Phase IV

See also: Supercar scare
Ford developed the HO series further with the XA Falcon, and were ready to produce the Phase IV to homologate the car for Group E Series Production Touring Cars racing, including the 1972 Hardie-Ferodo 500. On Sunday, 25 June 1972, the front page of The Sun-Herald carried the head-line ‘‘160 mph ‘super cars’ soon’’, with the sub-text, minister "horrified!". This set off a chain of responses from the Minister for Transport, Milton Morris, who called for the ban of these supercars just three days after the new article.
On Thursday 29 June, the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) announced that the end of the current Group E Series Production Touring Cars regulations, which would be replaced by new Group C regulations for 1973. Group C allowed modified versions of road cars to compete, removing the need for manufactures to develop road-going race specials.
The following Sunday, 2 July, Ford announced the cancellation of the Phase IV program. At this stage, one production car had been sent down the line, and three XA GT sedans were in various stages of construction to Phase IV specs at Ford Special Vehicles, Ford's internal race division. Only one of these cars was ever used in competition, with one sold to rally driver Bruce Hodgson, and eventually was destroyed in a crash in 1981. The other two are in the hands of collectors, with the car intended for Allan Moffat now in Australian collector and founder of Bowden's detailing products David Bowden's collection.
The sole production car was not sold until the following year, by Jack Brabham Ford, to a Sydney, Australia based owner, whom then had the car re-sprayed form its original Calypso Green to Zircon Green. The car went through a number of owners, until the current owner who had the car restored to factory specifications, in a build documented by an Australian Fords publication.

Falcon (XB) GT

See also: Ford Falcon (XB)
Launched in September 1973, the XB GT was to be the last Falcon GT for almost 20 years until the 25th Anniversary EBII GT in October 1992. The XB GT received a new aggressive front end with a the twin nostril bonnet, similar to the style found on the '71-'73 Mach 1 Mustang. The XB was the most popular GT model built by Ford with a total of 2,899 (1950 sedans and 949 hardtops) sold. In August 1975, Ford introduced the John Goss Special , a limited edition hardtop with a unique color scheme and several GT appearance and interior features, to celebrate the fact that Goss was the only driver to win both the Australian Grand Prix and the Bathurst 1000.

Motorsport

Main article: List of Ford Falcon GT victories
The Falcon GT saw considerable success in the Australian Touring Car Championship, Australian Manufacturers' Championship and the Bathurst 500/Bathurst 1000. The Ford Works Team was dealt with the task of running the Falcon GT in the early years.

Ford Falcon GT Specifications - produced by Ford Australia

Based on Falcon model	Years	Engine	Notes
XR	1967-68	289 cu in (4.7 L) Windsor V8 – 225 bhp (168 kW), sourced from the Ford Mustang	All but thirteen XR GTs were painted in the colour 'GT Gold', eight were "Gallaher Silver" and five were "Russet Bronze, Sultan Maroon, Polar White, Avis White and Ivy Green". The non-gold GTs, while having the same specifications, are the rarest of the early Australian muscle cars.
XT	1968–69	302 cu in (4.9 L) V8 – 239 bhp (178 kW)
XW	1969–70	351 cu in (5.8 L) Cleveland and Windsor V8 – 290 bhp (220 kW) and 385 lb·ft (522 N·m) The XW GT HO – 300 bhp (220 kW)	2,287 XW Falcon GTs and 662 XW GTHOs were built. The limited production, high-performance Falcon GTHO was released two months after the mainstream models. A further development, the GTHO Phase II was released in August 1970.
XY (see XY GT)	1970–72	351 cu in (5.8 L) Cleveland V8 300 bhp (220 kW) with the XY GT HO Phase III having 380 bhp (280 kW)	Variant: Ford Falcon GTHO Phase III
XA	1972–73	351 cu in (5.8 L) Cleveland V8, 224 kW (300 hp) @ 5400 rpm 515 Nm (380 lbft) @ 3400 rpm	Both 2-door Hardtop and 4-door Sedan versions Production of GTHO Phase IV commenced in mid-June 1972, four vehicles were built when production was stopped due to a "Supercar scare". Three were built as race cars for the Bathurst 500 in October, and one made it off the production line for sale to the public.
XB	1973–76	351 cu in (5.8 L) Cleveland V8, 224 kW (300 hp) @ 5400 rpm 515 Nm (380 lbft) @ 3400 rpm	Both 2-door Hardtop and 4-door Sedan versions

There were no XC—EA GT vehicles produced.

Ford XR Falcon GT	Ford XT Falcon GT		Ford XW Falcon GT
Ford XY Falcon GTHO Phase III	Ford XA Falcon GT Sedan		Ford XA Falcon GT Hardtop
Ford XB Falcon GT Sedan		Ford XB Falcon GT Hardtop

Ford Falcon GT Specifications - produced by Tickford

Main article: Tickford Vehicle Engineering
Tickford Vehicle Engineering produced the following models.

Based on Falcon model	Years	Engine	Notes
EB II	1992	Tickford engineered Windsor 302 cu in (4.95 L) 5.0 V8, sequentially injected OHV, two valves per cylinder 200 kW (270 hp) @ 5700 rpm & 420 ·m (310 lbft) @ 3700 rpm Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto	Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first original Falcon GT Ford re-introduced the Falcon GT with 250 or 300 units
EL	1997	Tickford engineered Windsor 302 cu in (4.95 L) 5.0 V8	The 30th anniversary EL GT was based loosely on the Fairmont Ghia rather than the XR models, with 272 built

FPV GT Specifications - produced by Ford Performance Vehicles

Main article: Ford Performance Vehicles
Ford Performance Vehicles produced the FPV GT, currently with three variants, the GT, the GT-P (a higher-specification version of the regular GT) and the GT-E (more focused on luxury rather than performance).
FPV have produced the following GT models.

Based on Falcon model	Years	Engine	Notes
BA	2003–2005	5.4 L (330 cu in) Boss 290 V8 producing 290 kW (390 hp) at 5500 rpm 520 Nm (380 lbft) of torque at 4500 rpm	GT and GT-P variants, 2004 BA MkII update
BF	2005–2007	5.4 L (330 cu in) Boss 290 V8 4-valve DOHC, 389 hp (290 kW) and 384 lbft (521 Nm) GT Cobra motor produced 405 hp (302 kW) and 398 lbft (540 Nm)	GT and GT-P, 2006 BF MkII update GT and GT-P A trio of limited-editions released in 2007 included the GT 40th Anniversary and the GT Cobra.
FG	2008 on	5.4 L (330 cu in) Boss 315 V8 producing 315 kW (428 PS; 422 hp) at 6,500 rpm and 551 Nm (406 lbft) of torque at 4,750 rpm. From October 2010 302 cu in (4.95 L) 5.0 V8 supercharged alloy quad cam engine producing 335 kW (449 hp) at 5750–6000 rpm 570 Nm (420 lbft) of torque between 2200 & 5500 rpm.	GT, GT-P, GT-E and GT R-spec variants

FPV BA GT

FPV BF GT 40th Anniversary

FPV FG GT

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Main articles: Ford Performance Vehicles and Ford Falcon GT
R-spec is a range of enhanced FPV products, consisisting of a handling package built on the base models of the GT and F6. During the BA-BF series, the R-spec badge was used on the F6, GT 40th anniversary and Cobra models. The FG GT R-spec is the halo-model of the range, with the honour of being the quickest Australian production car ever produced.

History

With the introduction of the BF series, FPV introduced the R-spec Handling package in limited numbers. The biggest change was new dampers supplied by Delphi, which provided better steering feel, turn-in and response, without compromising general road comfort. FPV also added a higher capacity oil cooler on automatics for the rigorous track use. The package was tested by legendary Australian racing identity John Bowe, who was able to cut 3 seconds a lap over the normal models at Winton Raceway.

FPV BF GT 40th Anniversary r-Spec

The FPV GT40th Anniversary commemorates 40 years of the Falcon GT legend in Australia, which stretches back to 1967, with the original XR GT.

Only 200 examples of the BF GT 40th anniversary model were build, making it not only the first R-spec but also the rarest, each one fitted with a unique build number badge, and all vehicles sold came with a certificate of authenticity, FPV floor mats with anniversary logo and integrated iPod/MP3 player input.

All vehicle were finished in silhouette black with a striking gold over body stripe kit last seen on a locally produced Ford model with the XC Cobra Hardtop. Gold GT lower body stripes with a 40th anniversary decals on the rear doors. All vehicles were fitted with 19" GT-P alloy wheels with gloss black accents to complete the standout exterior package.

The BF GT40th was the first FPV vehicle fitted with the race tuned R spec suspension package making it a true dual purpose road and track car.

The 40th Anniversary GT was released in April 2007, and retailed for $65,110.00 excluding dealer delivery and statutory charges. Out of the 200 vehicles produced, 112 were fitted with a six speed manual transmission and 88 were fitted with an automatic transmission.

F6 R-spec

FPV followed on with the F6, the F6 gaining the R-spec handling package, and gray accents on parts such as the spoiler legs. The BF F6 is the only non-V8 R-spec product.

Cobra R-spec

In 2008, FPV released the Cobra models, in celebration of the famous "one, two" Bathurst finish 30 years prior. 400 sedans (100 utes were built, but not as R-spec models) were produced, and both featured the distinctive blue on white scheme seen on the XC Cobra models in 1978. The power was also increased to 302 kW (over 290 kW), making this the only R-spec badged vehicle to benefit from a power upgrade. On release, dealers were charging vastly more (up to $44,000) then the RRP of the model, as were enterprising buyers whom sold them on for more than what they paid for. The model has since become highly collectable.

FPV BF MkII GT 40th Anniversary

FPV Cobra R-spec

FPV F6 Typhoon R-Spec

FG GT R-Spec

In July 2011, FPV displayed a concept at the Melbourne motor show. The officially unnamed, but universally referred as the "black edition" concept was a hint at what FPV had in store for us. The concept featured black on black styling, suspension upgrades and had a wheel and tire package that hinted at what the R-spec was latter equipped with.

FPV released the track focused version of the R-spec in 2012, using the current GT with its 335 kW/570Nm supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine, creating Australia’s fastest accelerating production car. It is seen by many as the spiritual successor the famed "HO" series of GT's, that ended with the Ford XY Falcon GT. Ford (FPV) however, is reluctant to use the "HO" tag on a modern-day equivalent.

A raft of changes includes a launch control system, stiffer engine and transmission mounts and retuned suspension. The suspension gains stiffer upper control arm bushes, stiffer upper strut mounts and retuned dampers in the front, with the rear gaining higher spring rates, retuned dampers, a larger anti-roll bar and reinforced lower control arms. The rear also gains a wider (9-inch-wide rear wheels and 275/35 R19) wheel and tire package, and revised toe settings.

175 were built in the distinctive silhouette black, with red highlights and a "c" stripe down each side, referencing the Mustang Boss Laguna Seca models. Kinetic blue, vixen and winter white were also available to order, these colours featured black accents and stripes.

The NSW Police Force chose a winter white R-Spec (build number 150) to commemorate the NSW Police Force’s 150th anniversary in 2012. With the power upgraded to 400 kW, it makes it the most powerful Australian highway patrol car ever, and will be used as a public liaison and awareness tool at motorsport events across the state.

2012 Ford Falcon GT R-spec

Mustang Boss Laguna Seca, the inspiration behind the FG R-spec

The NSW Police HWP

Performance

• 1/4 mile 12.6 @ 189 km/h
• 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds

These times better those set by the rival HSV W427 in 2008, then at the time Australia’s quickest production car.

FG GT-F 351

As a final send-off for the iconic GT Falcon, FPV released 500 falcons as the "GT-F 351", bringing back the 351 nomenclature applied to GT models in the 60's and 70's. This time however, 351 alluded to the engines kilowatt power output, rather than cubic capacity. The GT-F received all the suspension and drivetrain upgrades from the FG R-spec, coupled with an engine featuring a remapped tune to bring the total output to 351kW (with an "over-boost function" bringing power to 400+kw's for short periods, dependent on conditions). From the outside, the GT-F continues the visual impact of the R-spec, with a new unique stripe kit consisting of a single stripe over the top of the car's body, and painted blackouts on specific areas of the car.

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Ford Performance Vehicles
Founded	2002
Founder(s)	Henry Ford
Headquarters	Campbellfield, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Owner(s)	Ford Australia
Parent	Ford Motor Company
Website	www.fpv.com.au

Ford Performance Vehicles is the Melbourne-based, premium performance vehicle partner of automobile manufacturer Ford Australia. The company has produced a range of Ford based models under the FPV brand name since April 2003.

History

The roots of FPV can be traced back to 1991, when the English automotive engineering company Tickford began a collaboration with Ford Australia to produce high-performance variants of the Australian Falcon range. The partnership, Tickford Vehicle Engineering, saw the introduction of the Ford Falcon S-XR6 and Ford Falcon S-XR8 models. This was followed in October 1999 by the launch of the Ford Tickford Experience dealer network and the FTE T-Series range based on Ford’s AU Falcon and Fairlane models. In 2002, following the purchase of Tickford by Prodrive, the Ford Performance Vehicles company was formed as a joint venture between Ford Australia and Prodrive. The FPV brand name was created to replace the FTE name and a restructured range was developed based on the Ford BA Falcon, seeing the return of the GT nameplate to a Falcon product for the first time since the 30th Anniversary GT, and as a regular production model since the XB Falcon GT. The range was headlined by the FPV GT-P, and included a turbo-charged model based on the XR6 Turbo.

Over the years, FPV expanded the range to include a High Performance version of the Ford Territory as well as a number of special editions and anniversary models. The purchase from Prodrive also saw a factory backed V8 Supercar outfit in Ford Performance Racing.

In August 2012 it was announced that Ford Australia was to purchase the assets of Ford Performance Vehicles and continue the engineering, manufacturing and marketing of the FPV brand in Australia. The FPV GT, GS and F6 nameplates will be discontinued and the FPV brand retired as of 2014 in preparation for Ford Australia's manufacturing shutdown, ending 12 years of performance car production under the FPV brand.

BA range

The 2003 BA range included the GT, GT-P, and the Pursuit. The GT was the entry-level vehicle that started with a suggested retail price of A$59,810. The GT-P was the upmarket version of the GT, with a price tag of A$69,850. The Pursuit was a ute (utility) version of the GT, featuring the same seats, basic dash/interior package and wheels. A FPV specific body-kit was applied to all cars, using the lights from the XR-range. The kit had a strong resemblance to the BA falcon V8 Supercar, highlighting the connection to FPR.

All three were powered by a unique version of Ford's 5.4-litre Modular V8, with DOHC 4-valve cylinder heads from the Mustang Cobra R engine. FPV named this uniquely tuned engine as the Boss 290 because of its power output. It produced 290 kW (394 PS; 389 bhp) at 5500 rpm and 520 Nm (380 lbft) of torque at 4500 rpm.

Featured Models

• GT
• GT-P
• Pursuit (ute)

2004 BA MkII update

The GT, GT-P and Pursuit received a new stripe package with bonnet decals, a six-speed Tremec T56 manual and the GT-P received 19" five-spoke alloy wheels. A new car and ute were added to the range, the F6 Typhoon (sedan) and F6 Tornado (ute), the F6 was visually separated from the GT range with the use of a different pattern in the front bumper grill mesh, and a smaller boot spoiler. FPV also released the Super Pursuit, which was a Pursuit ute with GT-P extras.

They were FPV's version of the Ford Falcon Barra engine, featuring a 4.0 litre DOHC 24-valve turbocharged inline-six with variable cam timing, which produced 270 kW (367 PS; 362 bhp) at 5250 rpm and 550 Nm (410 lbft) at 2000 - 4250 rpm.

Featured Models

• GT
• GT-P
• F6 Typhoon (sedan)
• Pursuit (ute)
• Super Pursuit (ute)
• F6 Tornado (ute)

FPV BA GT

FPV BA GT

FPV BA GT

FPV BA Pursuit

BF range

Engine specifications remain unchanged. All models share the same six-speed manual and were now offered with an optional SS made ZF six-speed automatic (the same as featured in Jaguars and BMWs). The GT received the GT-P's old 19-inch wheels, and the GT-P and Super Pursuit received their own specific road wheel styles. Typhoon & Tornado versions had optional 18-inch road wheel design used on the previous model, or a new 19-inch design with black spokes. All models received new body kits, with the F6 Typhoon benefiting from its own unique styling changes. The F6 now had color coded fog lamp surrounds, and a lower grill insert emphasizing the intercooler. The rear now had a new bumper with mesh inserts, a deeper diffuser, with the GT models now sporting a dual exit exhaust system cut into the diffuser.

Featured Models

• GT
• GT-P
• Pursuit.
• Super Pursuit
• F6 Typhoon (sedan)
• F6 Tornado (ute)

2006 BF MkII update

No mechanical changes were introduced with this update; however, all models came standard with 19 inch rims. Subtle styling changes were made, but the most significant news was the introduction of new Force 6 and Force 8 models. Built to rival HSV's Senator Signature, they are mechanically identical to the auto-equipped GT model, but in a more luxury-focused package with more conservative visuals (no rear wing and more conservative colour range). The Force models are essentially an FPV version of the Fairmont Ghia (luxury model in the Falcon range). In the final months of the BF MkII Falcon, a trio of limited-editions were released - the GT 40th Anniversary, the F6 Typhoon R-Spec, and the GT Cobra with a Cobra Ute - all three of which received stiffer "R-Spec" dampers, and in the case of the GT Cobra, a power hike. (The GT Cobra motor produced 405 hp (302 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lbft)).

300 R Spec model Typhoons were produced in 2007, these had different Ardent Dark Silver colour accents on wheels and spoilers, leather upholstery, R spec floor mats, Brembo 4-pot front brakes, ten of these R-Spec Typhoons were exported by Ford Australia into Ford New Zealand, of that ten, one was fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission and the other nine were equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions.

Only 200 BF GT 40th Anniversary models were produced, making it the rarest and most sought after of the limited edition models, as it was released to commemorate as well as celebrate the 40 year anniversary of the Falcon GT legend in Australia, which stretches back to 1967 with the release of the original XR GT Falcon.

Featured Models

• GT
• GT-P
• Pursuit.
• Super Pursuit
• F6 Typhoon (sedan)
• F6 Tornado (ute)
• GT 40th Anniversary Edition
• GT Spec R Cobra (limited edition 30th anniversary model - 400 sedans and 100 utes)
• Force 6
• Force 8

FPV BFII F6 Typhoon	FPV BFII F6 Typhoon		FPV BFII F6 Typhoon		BF Falcon GT Cobra, XC Cobra Hardtop and BF Cobra ute.
FPV BFII GT		FPV BF MkII GT 40th Anniversary		FPV F6 Typhoon R-Spec

Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV)

F6X

FPV F6X

In January 2008, Ford Performance Vehicles unveiled the FPV F6X, a high-performance, luxury version of the Ford Territory crossover. The F6X is fitted with the F6 270 Turbo 4.0 L DOHC in-line six-cylinder engine, a ZF six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time all-wheel-drive system.[6] It is the first non Falcon-based model to be produced by FPV and, with an engine producing 270 kW (367 PS; 362 bhp) and 550 Nm (406 lbft), was claimed by the company to be the most powerful six-cylinder SUV available in Australia at that time.

The F6X was discontinued in February 2009, with approximately 229 examples having been built.

FG series

All models in the current FPV FG range are based on the Australian Ford FG Falcon and include the 6-cylinder F6 sedan, F6 Ute (the former Typhoon and Tornado names having been retired) and F6 E sedan, the V8 powered GS Sedan and Ute and the V8 engined GT, GT-P and GT E sedans. The 4.0 L Turbocharged Inline Six produces 310 kW (421 PS; 416 bhp) and 565 Nm (417 lbft), while the 5.4 L V8 developed 315 kW (428 PS; 422 bhp) and 551 Nm (406 lbft). The 5.4 L V8 was replaced with the new 5.0 L Supercharged Coyote (Miami) V8. The GT range now produces 335 kW (449 hp) and the GS 315 kW (428 PS; 422 bhp). It is capable of a sub 5 second 0–100 km/h (0-62 mph) time, surpassing the HSV GTS (the FPV's main rival) in both power and torque. The decision was brought about because of pressure to convert to Euro IV emissions, which the 5.4 L was unable to pass.

Sedans

GS

FPV FG GS sedan

In August 2009 FPV launched new GS Sedan and GS Ute models, reviving a name that was first used for an option pack on the XW Falcon range of 1969. Unlike that earlier GS, the new model is a limited-edition model and it is intended to provide a lower entry-point into FPV's performance stable. At $54,950 (plus on-roads) for the Sedan, and $49,950 (plus) for the Ute, the GS variants sit between Ford's Falcon XR range and FPV's GT and F6. The pricing puts both the GS Sedan and Ute under the bar for the Luxury Car Tax.

Featuring GS graphics, FPV chassis enhancements and interior updates, and sitting on 19 inch rims (Graphite for the Sedan, Alpine Silver for the Ute). Production includes 250 sedans and 75 utes. The GS features the new 5.0 litre V8, but produces slightly less power and torque than its more expensive V8 siblings. The engine makes 315 kW (428 PS; 422 hp) and 545 Nm (402 lbft), and driving through the standard six-speed manual, runs a GT-spec exhaust system and sits on a GT-spec suspension set-up. The GS also offers a premium sound system, Bluetooth compatibility, iPod connectivity, GT instrumentation, starter button, and dual-zone climate control as standard features.

GT

See also: FPV GT R-spec

2008–2010 FPV FG GT

The GT costs the same and has the same features as the F6, the major difference being the engine. It features a 5.0 L supercharged V8, code named "Miami". The engine has 335 kW (455 PS; 449 bhp) at 5750 rpm and 570 Nm (420 lbft) of torque between 2200 - 5500 rpm. Because of different shaped BOSS engines that are physically larger than the I6 engine in F6, the GT has a "power bulge" on the bonnet with GT decals. The GT has two transmission choices a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. Standard are 4-piston front brake calipers, 19-inch alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, and other items. The GT retails for $71,000. A higher performance version of the GT was offered, called the R-spec.

GT-P

2008–2010 FPV FG GT-P

The GT-P is a higher-spec version of the regular GT. It costs $81,000 (AUD). It features FPV's new "Miami" V8, it has the same power as the GT. It also includes larger brakes, adjustable pedals, performance seats, a 6-way power driver's seat, and extra GT-P decals. It also features 19-inch alloys; however, they have a different design to the regular GT.

GT-E

The GT-E is the flagship of the new FPV range at a price of $82,000 (AUD). It is more focused on luxury rather than performance. It has the 5.0 L supercharged V8 that is found in the GT models, which is mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic. It has replaced the Force 6 and 8. The GT-E comes with a boot lip spoiler, special alloy wheels and other features like a reversing camera, parking sensors, leather, and a wood grain interior. The GT-E gets the same sport luxury suspension found in the Ford G Series range.

GT-F 351

Presented in June 2014, the GT-F 351 is the last ever Falcon GT sedan and last FPV model (along with the Pursuit Ute), with a total production of 500 reserved for Australia at $77,990 and another 50 for New Zealand. Its nomenclature was chosen to mean "F" for final whereas "351" is this Falcon's engine output in kW as well as a homage to the iconic 351 cu in (5.8 L) engine capacity of the 1970s GT Falcon. Mechanically, the GT-F features launch control, standard Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes, the suspension and 275/35 R19 Dunlop Sports Maxx 9in rear tyre package from the limited edition GT R-spec and a retuned version of the supercharged Coyote "Miami" 5.0 L V8 (embossed "GT-F 351" instead of "Boss 335") developing a minimum of 351 kW (477 PS; 471 bhp) of power (or, depending on prevailing conditions, over 400 kW (544 PS; 536 bhp) for 15-20 seconds thanks to a transient overboost function) but an unchanged 570 Nm (420 lbft) of torque that is, however, available across a broader range. Inside, this Falcon is characterised by darker finishes, orange accents throughout (e.g. trim stitching, instrument facia and GT-F seat embroiding) and a build number plate complemented by a certificate. The exterior features stealth or black accents (specifically, the headlight and foglight bezels are black, as are the external mirrors, door handles, rear spoiler and diffuser, alloy wheels) and a unique GT-F stripe package (including over the roof of the car) that is available in different colours depending on exterior paints, which are Winter White, Silhouette (black), Kinetic (blue), Octane (orange) and Smoke (grey).

F6

2008–2010 FPV FG F6 sedan

The F6 is one of two turbocharged 6-cylinder vehicles in the FPV sedan range, with a suggested retail price of $66,590 (AUD). It comes with the same features as the F6 ute, except it also has a Control Blade independent rear suspension, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, and reverse sensing system that are not standard on the ute. With 310 kW (421 PS; 416 bhp) and 565 Nm (417 lbft), this can take it from 0–100 km (0-62 mph) in 4.9 seconds. The F6 is the quickest Ford vehicle ever sold in Australia.

F6 E

The F6 E incorporates the features of the GT E with the turbocharged six cylinder engine from the F6.

Utes

GS Ute

FPV FG GS Ute

The GS ute is now the only V8 powered ute in FPV's line-up. It is powered by the same 315 kW (428 PS; 422 bhp) supercharged 5.0 L V8 found in the GS sedan. Fuel economy for the GS ute is 14.0 L/100 km for the manual and 14.2 L/100 km for the automatic, both figures are small improvements over the 5.4 L V8. The GS ute can be optioned with either a 6-speed manual or a ZF 6-speed automatic. The GS ute will start at $52,000.

Pursuit and Super Pursuit

FPV FG Super Pursuit

FPV offered two V8 powered utes in the FG range, both using the 5.4 L V8. The two models were discontinued when the company introduced the 5.0 L Supercharged V8 in October 2010. The Pursuit ute is effectively replaced by the new GS ute. In 2012 FPV released a limited edition Pursuit Ute alongside the GT R-Spec, The limited edition Pursuit Ute is powered by the FPV modified all-aluminium 315 kW 5.0-litre "Miami" V8 engine producing 545 Nm of torque between 2000 and 5500 rpm. It also shares styling cues with the GT R-Spec boasting Vixen coloured stripe packages and wheels.

In June 2014, along with the Falcon GT-F 351 sedan, Pursuit Utes marked the end of FPV's production. A total of 120 were released at $52,990.

F6 Ute

FPV FG F6 Ute

The F6 Ute is the only 6-cylinder vehicle in the FPV Ute range; it starts off the FPV range at $57,990 (AUD). It is powered by a 4.0 L turbo-charged DOHC 24 valve in-line six-cylinder engine, which produces a maximum power of 310 kW (421 PS; 416 bhp) at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 565 Nm (417 lbft) across the range from 1950 to 5200 rpm. The fuel consumption has dropped to 12.1 L/100 km (23.3 mpg-imp; 19.4 mpg-US) for the automatic. The engine is mated to a new 6-speed manual transmission; however, a ZF 6-speed automatic is a no cost option. It is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), 6 airbags, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS), Beltminder technology, a six CD player (MP3 compatible), FPV starter button, alloy pedal covers, and 19-inch (480 mm) alloy wheels.

Engines

5.4L Modular "Boss" V8

Boss 290

Based on the cast iron 4V DOHC Boss short blocks sourced from Windsor, Ontario, the Boss engines include some locally sourced parts such as intake and pistons coupled with DOHC 4-valve cylinder heads from the Mustang Cobra R engine. FPV named this uniquely tuned engine as the Boss 290 because of its power output. It produced 290 kW (394 PS; 389 bhp) at 5500 rpm and 520 Nm (380 lbft) of torque at 4500 rpm.

Boss 302

For the BFII FPV GT Cobra special edition, the Boss 302 was created. The GT Cobra motor produced 405 hp (302 kW) and 540Nm (398 lbft)).

Boss 315

For the FG MkI, the 5.4 was further tuned to produce 315 kW (428 PS; 422 bhp) and 551 Nm (406 lbft). FPV achieved this through a new camshaft profile, new camshaft timing, strengthened piston assembly and a higher compression ratio (10.5:1 to 10.8:1).

5.0L Coyote "Miami" V8

In October 2010 FPV retired the 5.4L Boss V8, in favour of a new supercharged 5.0L V8. The project, codenamed "Miami", is based on the Coyote 5.0 litre V8 and is a supercharged alloy quad cam engine. It has cost FPV $40 million and has taken 3 years to develop. The engine was offered in three versions, Boss 315, 335 and finally 351.

Boss 315

Used in the entry level GS sedan and ute, the Boss 315 produces 315 kW (428 PS; 422 bhp) at 5750 rpm and 545 Nm (402 lbft) between 2000 - 5500 rpm.

Boss 335

Available in the GT range, the Boss 335 kW (455 PS; 449 bhp) between 5750 - 6000 rpm and 570 Nm (420 lbft) between 2200 - 5500 rpm. The latter is offered in the GT range, which includes GT, GT-P, and GT-E. Fuel economy was improved dropping 4.5% to 13.7 L/100 km for the auto and 13.6 L/100 km for the manual.

Boss 351

This is a specially tuned variant of the 5.0L unique to the GT-F, similar to the Cobra before it, the 351 is a reference to the Cleveland engines offered in the Falcon in the past. The engine is capable of up to 15 per cent more power and torque, equivalent to over 400kW and 650Nm, when the conditions allow.

4.0L "Barra" I6

Barra 270

For the BA/BF F6 Typhoon and Tornado models, the boost from the Garrett GT3540 turbocharger was increased over the Barra 240, producing 270 kW (362 hp) @ 5250 rpmTorque: 550 Nm (406 lbft) @ 2000-4000 rpm.

Barra 310

With the FG series,a larger turbocharger and intercooler were added. This is the most powerful engine with 310 kW (416 hp) @ 5250 rpmTorque: 565 Nm (417 lbft) @ 1950-5200 rpm (and the first to produce more than 100 hp (75 kW) per litre) manufactured in Australia. As a result, the F6's rolling acceleration from 80 km/h (50 mph) to 120 km/h (75 mph) is 2.8 seconds.

2011 FPV GS Falcon BOSS 315

FPV Barra 270T 6-cylinder

Motorsport

V8 Supercars

Main article: Ford Performance Racing
FPR was created in 2003 to establish a link between FPV's road car range and the V8 Supercars. Given the team's massive budget, its early results were disappointing but a form reversal in 2006 saw the team finish 2nd in the teams' standings. Mark Winterbottom has also got 2nd place in the drivers championship in 2008. The team achieved their first Bathurst 1000 victory in 2013 at the helm of Mark Winterbottom and Steven Richards. Current drivers are Mark Winterbottom and Chaz Mostert in the two FPR entries. Former drivers include Craig Lowndes, Glenn Seton, Greg Ritter,David Brabham, David Besnard, Jason Bright, Steven Richards and Will Davison.

Drifting

FPV created a show car dubbed the 'DRIF6' - an F6 Typhoon with modifications making the car suitable for competitive drifting. The car was entered into the national-level Drift Australia Series in 2006, where it was driven by Adam 'Newtonmeter' Newton. One of the car's main objectives was to expose the FPV brand to a younger audience than its usual, traditional V8-driving crowd.
Apart from Adam Newton, only Gary Myers of Summernats Burnout fame has driven the car. Gary drove the F6 for Street Machine Magazine, and commented the vehicle had incredible power.
The F6 drift car managed to score a best qualifying position of 5th at Mallala Motorsport Park in Adelaide, South Australia. In the Queensland Round of racing, the car suffered damage when Warren Luff, a professional race driver, took to the wheel for a few demo laps. Under Warren's control the car only made the end of the back straight of Queensland Raceway before it was turned passenger side first into the wall and Warren ended up in hospital with a fractured nose.
The damaged vehicle made an appearance in China to bolster one of its sponsors agendas. Ford Australia brought the vehicle back to Australia and it can be seen at the Ford Australia Discovery Centre in Geelong Victoria.

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Last updated on 27 July 2014 at 11:23.

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