|
Ford Falcon EA
|
1988 - 1990 |
Country: |
|
Engine: |
6 cyl. |
Capacity: |
3157/3949 cc |
Power: |
90 /139 kw |
Transmission: |
5 spd. man / 3 spd. auto |
Top Speed: |
180 km/h |
Number
Built: |
223,612 |
Collectability: |
|
|
Ford Australia are reputed to have
invested over $700 million in the development of the "EA",
the long overdue replacement for the XF Falcon.
Much like the "BA" of 2002, the "EA"
had countless improvements over its predecessors.
Most importantly for Ford was the introduction of new
fuel injected 3.2 and 3.9 liter (SOHC) engines - which
were a great improvement on the harsh and thirsty 3.3
and 4.1 liter pushrod sixes they replaced.
Gone were the troublesome carburetors, and with them
rough idling and the need for regular tuning.
But now
the standard Falcon was fitted with power steering, 4
wheel disc brakes and a 5 speed manual.
The front suspension was new from the ground up and
offered a better ride, handling and longevity.
The "variable
assist" power steering was far superior to the
XF model, and offered the added benefit of delivering
a tighter turning circle (the QE2 putting a XF to shame).
Unfortunately for the EA reliability issues
were soon to surface and the model quickly gained a bad
reputation with the Australian motoring public.
Some analysts
believe it was Ford's desire to get the new model to market
quickly, without first ironing out the bugs, that caused
the problem.
But Ford were committed to the new car, and
the subsequent "EB" model had all of the
problems sorted.
Far too recent to be collectable in "Falcon"
guise, there are some models such as the muscular Peter
Brock edition EA Falcon and various SVO models that
an astute collector may just be able to purchase at
a good price! |