Classic Cars
From Australia
FORD MOTOR COMPANY OF AUSTRALIA
Some may be surprised that Australia has produced some
genuine classics.
The first car ever produced in Australia was the famous Model T Ford which was
born at the Geelong plant in 1925. It was not until September 1960 however, that
the first Australian Ford was produced in the form of the long living "Falcon"
model. (*1)
Model Ts were first assembled in Geelong from imported parts shipped from
Canada. The XY Falcon GTHO became one of the most famous vehicles produced in
Australia after its many successes on the racetrack, outgunning in many cases,
its arch rivals from the stable of GM-Holden.
The 1970-1972 XY Falcon GTHO, 8 cylinder,
5,800cc,
only 800 units built. (*2)
The small production was a direct result of bad publicity
regarding these "muscle cars" on Australian roads, scaring the public and the
government to reluctantly reject the high powered monsters. The model pictured
at left was auctioned by Shannons and reportedly sold for over AUD$650,000 or
over 100 times its original sale price in 1971.
The Ford Cortina first hit the roads in 1962.
Produced between 1962 and 1979, the most famous of all was the 1967 Mark II 1600 GT.
4 cylinder, 1599cc
over 80,000 produced.
(*2)
The entire Cortina range was
the car of choice for young people of the day and a status symbol for the
upcoming executive. At the annual race meetings around the country, Cortinas and
Toranas filled the parking lots.
Both in Sydney, Aus.
The later 1300 model was directly related to all that came after. This model was
also highly successful in the Australian rally scene of the 60s and 70s.
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References
*1 -
Ford History
*2 -
Unique Cars and Parts