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Ford Falcon XF
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1984 - 1988 |
Country: |
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Engine: |
6 cyl. |
Capacity: |
3.3 & 4.1 liter 6 cyl. |
Power: |
150 bhp / 122 kw (4.1 ltr.) |
Transmission: |
4 spd. man / 3 spd. auto |
Top Speed: |
n/a |
Number
Built: |
220,059 |
Collectability: |
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The XF represented the last of the fourth generation cars,
and featured softer, more rounded styling with revsions
to the grille and bumpers, and new tail lamps.
The XF had big shoes to fill, the XE having taken Ford to the
top of the sales charts, however Ford needed the XF to be
something special with the General's VK Commodore quickly closing the margin.
The Ford enginners gave the XF a softer styling treatment,
and even a new dash which presented a far more modern look
than the outgoing XE.
Very popular, the XF would remain in production for 3 and a
half years, from October 1984 through to February 1988. During
its run, Ford made numerous improvements, and for the first
time offered a 5 speed manual gearbox to most models.
The design was almost entirely new forward of the front pillars,
and the rear had the obligatory tail lamp revision.
Other less noticeable inclusions were the padded head rests,
adjustable steering column on all models except the GL, and
a fold down panel in the centre of the rear seat to allow long
items to extend through from the boot.
The Ghia went one further, fitted with beautifully elegant
alloy wheels, a body colored grille, cruise control and one
of the most impressive ever electronic dash displays. Having
a long production run meant revisions were the order of the
day, and the XF was available in Family Edition and S-Pack.
The Family Edition featured a centafold front bench
seat and two-tone paint scheme, while the S-Pack featured
firmer suspension, was lowered 10mm and fitted with alloy wheels
shod with performance tires.
The fuel injected six cylinder engine, introduced in the
previous model to replace the V8 received new management
systems, and midway through the production run were modified
further to allow the use of unleaded fuel.
September, 1985 saw the release of the special 25th Anniversary
Falcon, featuring a choice of three color schemes and
unique badging and interior. 2000 were sold. Ford did
have something to celebrate.
The XF was finally replaced by
the 5th generation Falcon, the EA, in February 1988, however
the utes and vans would continue in production and, in April 1991,
an S version was made available complete with sports wheels and
wider side body stripe. Power steering and a five speed manual
gearbox was fitted as standard on all versions, and all this
happened over 3 years after the last XF sedan had rolled off
the production line! |