Cost of a new Ford BA Falcon
- Base sedan models started at approximately $33,000–$34,000
- Futura, Fairmont, and XR6/XR8 models ranged from $36,000–$45,000 depending on options
- The BA Falcon introduced refined styling, improved safety, upgraded suspension, and enhanced electronics
Cost of a Ford BA Fairlane
- Base BA Fairlane sedan started at around $56,000–$58,000
- Higher-spec models could exceed $65,000, offering premium luxury interiors, advanced features, climate control, and executive appointments
Cost of a Ford BA LTD
- Base BA LTD models started at approximately $70,000–$72,000
- The LTD remained Ford Australia’s flagship luxury sedan, featuring top-tier comfort, premium finishes, technology, and executive appeal
Average wage
- Average weekly wage: about $900–$920 per week
- Average annual wage: about $47,000–$48,000
Average house price
- Around $250,000–$260,000
Price of petrol
- Around $1.20 per litre
Prime Minister
- John Howard (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
- About 19.0 million people
Top-grossing movie
- Spider-Man, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, and Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones were major hits
Top song
- Complicated by Avril Lavigne topped Australian charts
Significant world event
- Global focus on economic growth, post-2000 tech expansion, and international conflicts
- Australia continued to benefit from economic stability and low unemployment
Popular TV / radio in Australia
- Popular shows included Home and Away, Neighbours, and The Panel
- FM radio stations and emerging digital media shaped music and youth culture
Significant Australian news story
- Economic growth and political stability dominated headlines
- Car buyers were increasingly influenced by safety, comfort, technology, and performance, reflected in Falcon, Fairlane, and LTD sales
Interesting comparisons
- The BA Falcon cost roughly 0.7 of a year’s average wage, XR6/XR8 variants approached 0.9 of a year’s wage
- The average house cost about 5–5.5 times a yearly wage
- Filling the ~70L tank in a BA Falcon cost about $85, while Fairlane and LTD tanks could cost $95–$110
- A week’s wages could buy roughly 630–650 litres of petrol
- The BA Falcon represented modern Australian family and performance sedans, while BA Fairlane and BA LTD offered executive luxury, technology, and comfort