The AU TE50 was a high-performance variant of the Ford Falcon produced by Tickford. It was part of Tickford’s lineup of performance vehicles, aimed at offering enhanced performance, handling, and styling compared to the standard Ford Falcon models. Introduced in 1999 as part of the AU Falcon series, the AU TE50 represented the pinnacle of performance for the Falcon range at the time.
1. Engine and Performance: The AU TE50 was powered by a 5.0-liter Windsor V8 engine, which was a modified version of the engine used in the Ford Mustang GT of the same era. The engine was equipped with unique performance components, including high-flow cylinder heads, a revised intake manifold, and a performance exhaust system, resulting in improved power and torque outputs. The AU TE50 produced approximately 220 kW (295 hp) of power and 435 Nm (321 lb-ft) of torque, making it one of the most powerful Falcons of its time. It was available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
2. Chassis and Suspension: To complement its powerful engine, the AU TE50 featured a performance-tuned suspension system with upgraded springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars. The chassis was also strengthened and reinforced to enhance rigidity and improve handling dynamics. Additionally, the TE50 was equipped with larger brakes for improved stopping power and fade resistance, ensuring that it could handle the demands of spirited driving with confidence.
3. Exterior and Interior: Visually, the AU TE50 featured aggressive styling cues that set it apart from the standard Falcon models. It was equipped with unique body enhancements, including a front spoiler, side skirts, and a rear wing, which improved aerodynamics and gave the TE50 a more purposeful appearance. The interior was also upgraded with sports seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and unique trim accents, creating a sporty and luxurious ambiance for the driver and passengers.
4. Limited Editions and Special Variants: Throughout its production run, the AU TE50 was offered in several limited edition and special variants, including the TE50 T1, T2, and T3. These variants featured additional performance upgrades, unique styling elements, and exclusive color options, further enhancing the appeal of the TE50 to enthusiasts and collectors. Production numbers for these limited editions were typically low, making them highly sought-after among Falcon enthusiasts.
5. Production Numbers: Exact production numbers for the AU TE50 are difficult to ascertain, as Ford Performance Vehicles did not release detailed production figures for individual variants. However, it is estimated that several thousand units of the AU TE50 were produced during its production run from 1999 to 2002. The limited edition variants, such as the T1, T2, and T3, would have had even lower production numbers, adding to their rarity and collectibility.
The AU TE50 represented the pinnacle of performance for the Ford Falcon range in the late 1990s and early 2000s. With its powerful V8 engine, upgraded suspension, and aggressive styling, the TE50 offered a thrilling driving experience and solidified Tickford’s reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance vehicles in Australia.