The XT Falcon was a mild restyle of the previous model,
with a barely altered grille, but distinctive new tail
lamps, circular lamps still, but cut by large rectangular
indicator lenses.
The V8 engine increased in size to the 302ci (4.9 liter)
version and there were minor mechanical revisions as Ford
placed its Falcon squarely up against it competitors in
the marketplace.
In fact, the entire engine range for the XT was
revised, the six cylinder engines growing in
capacity to 3.1 liter (188ci) and 3.6 liter (221ci)
respectively, and the 289ci V8 growing in capacity
to the "Mustang 5.0 liter" (302ci, 4.9 liter).
Each of the new engines was now idintified by
liter displacement instead of the previous used
cubic inch displacement, although even today we
still think of the capacity of each, particularly
the V8's, by their respecitve cubic inch capacity.
Numerous safety features were added, including
split-system brakes and larger tires, although
disappointingly radial ply tires remained an extra
cost option. Thankfully though, synchro on first
for the manual transmissions was now standard,
as was electrically operated windscreen washers.
On the outside, the beautiful chrome strips that
ran along the waistline of the XR were relocated to
the top of the doorline, further enhancing the cars linage
with the Mustang "shape". While the rear tail
lights were still round, the indicator lamps were now
housed in a horizontal rectangle across the centre of the circle.
The venerable "bench" seats were still
the standard fitment on all but the Fairmont's and
GT's, many buyers of the Falcon and Falcon 500's
were now ticking the option box for the sumptuos
Ford reclining bucket seats.
Those lucky enough to be able to afford the Fairmont
were the envy of most, as standard equipment now
included not only the bucket seats, but 3.6 liter
six (with optional 4.9 liter V8),
front disc brakes, heater/demister, carpet and
courtesy lamps in all four doors.
All of this was topped off by a rather elegant
wood-grain finish applied to the dash. Those who
chose the Fairmont Wagon also received an electrically
operated tailgate. Further helping the XT make it mark
on the Australian motoring landscape was its success
in the London-Sydney Marathon rally, where its three entered
cars took third, sixth and eighth places, capturing the
"Team Prize" in the process.
Both the XR and XT had 11-inch front discs and drum rear
brakes, although this model used a dual hydraulic system.
And then, of course, was the
XT GT,
but that is covered in depth in other sections of
the Unique Cars and Parts web site.