The EL Falcon, released in 1996, represented a refinement of the EF Falcon platform, featuring subtle styling updates, improved suspension, enhanced safety features, and a smoother ride. The EL Falcon retained the versatility and performance that made the Falcon range popular, while modernizing interior features and offering a variety of trims to suit families, enthusiasts, and commercial users.
Understanding the trim levels, engine choices, and transmission options is essential for collectors, restorers, and classic car enthusiasts seeking authenticity.
EL Falcon GLi Sedan
The GLi Sedan was the entry-level model, ideal for budget-conscious buyers and practical daily driving.
Interior & Trim Features
- Vinyl bench seats
- Simple dashboard with essential gauges
- Rubber floor mats
- Optional heater and basic radio
Engine Options
- 4.0L Inline-six – standard engine
- 5.0L Windsor V8 – optional
Transmission Options
- 5-speed manual (6-cylinder)
- 4-speed automatic (all trims)
Collector insight:
EL Sedans are considered practical restoration projects and provide an affordable entry into classic Falcon ownership.
EL Falcon Futura and S
The Futura and S trims added comfort and convenience, offering a more refined driving experience.
Interior & Trim Features
- Cloth or upgraded vinyl upholstery
- Padded dashboard with woodgrain accents
- Full carpeting
- Optional power windows, air conditioning, and stereo
Engine Options
- 4.0L Inline-six
- 5.0L Windsor V8 (optional in Futura)
Transmission Options
- 5-speed manual (6-cylinder)
- 4-speed automatic
Enthusiast note:
Futura V8 models remain popular with collectors for their combination of comfort, performance, and relative affordability.
EL Falcon Fairmont
The Fairmont represented the luxury trim, offering higher-end materials and advanced features.
Interior & Trim Features
- Premium cloth or leather upholstery
- Woodgrain dashboard and trim accents
- Optional bucket seats and centre console
- Full instrumentation including tachometer
Engine Options
- 4.0L Inline-six
- 5.0L Windsor V8
Transmission Options
- 5-speed manual (6-cylinder)
- 4-speed automatic
Collector insight:
Fairmont V8s are highly sought after today for their luxury features combined with reliable V8 performance.
EL Falcon XR6, XR8, and GT
The XR6, XR8, and GT trims were performance-oriented models, appealing to enthusiasts seeking sporty styling and power.
Interior & Trim Features
- Sports bucket seats with centre console
- Full instrumentation including tachometer
- XR6/XR8/GT-specific exterior badging and decals
- Optional limited-slip differential and performance suspension
Engine Options
- 4.0L Inline-six (XR6)
- 5.0L Windsor V8 (XR8 and GT)
Transmission Options
- 5-speed manual (GT/XR8 floor-shift standard)
- 4-speed automatic optional
Collector appeal:
GT and XR8 models remain highly collectible, especially V8s with original factory options and limited production features.
EL Falcon Station Wagon
The Station Wagon offered family practicality, cargo space, and the option of higher trims for added comfort.
Interior & Trim Features
- Fold-down rear bench
- Cloth or vinyl upholstery
- Spacious cargo area
- Optional GLi or Fairmont trim features
Engine Options
- 4.0L Inline-six
- 5.0L Windsor V8
Transmission Options
- 5-speed manual (6-cylinder)
- 4-speed automatic
Restoration note:
V8 Station Wagons are rarer and increasingly desirable for collectors seeking family-friendly performance vehicles.
XH Falcon Utility (Ute) & Panel Van
The Ute and Panel Van retained practical features for work and commercial use.
Interior & Trim Features
- Vinyl bench seat
- Rubber flooring
- Heavy-duty rear suspension
- Minimal interior trim
Engine Options
- 4.0L Inline-six
- 5.0L Windsor V8
Transmission Options
- 5-speed manual
- Optional automatic
Market insight:
XH V8 Utes and Panel Vans are rare today, and highly collectible for enthusiasts looking for unique classic Falcons.
EL Falcon Engine Summary
| Engine | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4.0L | Inline-six | Standard engine in most trims |
| 5.0L | Windsor V8 | Standard on GT/XR8; optional on GL, Fairmont, XR6, Ute, and Wagon |
EL Falcon Transmission Summary
- 5-speed manual (6-cylinder and GT/XR8 models)
- 4-speed automatic (all trims)
Manual V8 Falcons remain the most collectible, while automatic V8s are sought for comfort and reliability.
Why the EL Falcon Matters
The EL Falcon is significant because:
- It refined the EF platform with improved aerodynamics, suspension, and ride quality
- Offered V8 availability across a wide range of trims, from family sedans to high-performance GTs
- Served as a bridge between classic Falcons and more modern 1990s designs
Collectors and restorers value maintaining original trim, engine, and transmission to preserve authenticity and market value.