When the Falcon Entered a New Era
By 1979, the Falcon wasn’t just a popular car — it was a pillar of Australian motoring culture. The XC had taken the classic ‘coke‑bottle’ shape to its peak, blending comfort, toughness, and performance, capped off by icons like the XC Cobra. But Ford Australia knew the next chapter needed a clean break.
That break arrived with the XD. Launched in 1979, it introduced an entirely new body design, fresh engineering, and modernised styling that pushed the Falcon firmly into a new era. Sleeker, lighter, and more contemporary, the XD moved away from the curvy lines of the XC while keeping the practicality and performance spirit that defined the badge.
If the XC was the ultimate expression of its generation, the XD was the reset — bringing improved handling, better efficiency, and a more modern driving feel. It marked a pivotal turning point in Falcon history, setting the tone for the models that would carry Ford Australia into the 1980s and beyond.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
XC Falcon styling included:
- Muscular “coke bottle” body lines
- Steel bumpers, rounded body shape
- Flared guards and distinctive bonnet bulges
XD Falcon introduced a major design shift:
- Squarer, more modern lines with less curvature
- Wider stance and longer wheelbase
- New front grille and headlight layout
- Plastic bumper bars and grill
- Updated tail lights and rear bumper design
- Bonnet bulges retained for performance models but less pronounced
The XD looked more contemporary, with a design language that would carry Falcons into the 1980s. The XD Falcon would go on to win awards for its styling.
Interior Design
XC interior highlights:
- Improved dashboard and trim quality
- Comfortable seating and ergonomics
XD interior improvements included:
- Completely redesigned dashboard with modern instrument layout
- Better seat comfort and optional high-back bucket seats
- Improved ergonomics and controls
- Optional air conditioning and upgraded interior trim for luxury models
The XD offered a more modern, spacious, and driver-focused cabin.
Platform and Engineering Changes
The XD represented a clean-sheet update over the XC:
Chassis and suspension:
- Wider track for improved stability
- Longer wheelbase for better ride comfort
- Revised suspension geometry for smoother handling
Brakes and safety:
- Disc brakes available across more models
- Stronger brake components for V8 variants
- Improved steering and driver ergonomics
Performance engineering:
- Performance models received improved cooling systems
- Strengthened driveline components for GT and high-output V8s
- Suspension refinements improved cornering stability and ride quality
The XD provided a more modern and safer driving experience compared to the XC.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
Engine Options
XC Falcon engines:
Six-cylinder:
- 3.3L inline six
- 4.1L inline six
V8:
- 302 Windsor V8
- 351 Windsor V8
XD Falcon engines:
Six-cylinder:
- 3.3L inline six
- 4.1L inline six
- Optional 4.9L (302) V8
V8:
- 302 Windsor V8
- 351 Windsor V8 continued in performance variants
While engine options were similar to the XC, the XD’s engines were integrated into a modernized chassis and driveline for better overall refinement and reliability.
Transmission Options
Both XC and XD offered:
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual in performance models
- Optional automatic transmissions
Performance variants in the XD benefited from strengthened gearboxes and improved clutch systems.
Performance Comparison
Standard model performance was similar, but XD handling and refinement were improved:
- Better high-speed stability
- More responsive handling due to updated suspension
- Improved braking performance
- Performance models retained GT-HO lineage while being more usable on public roads
The XD represented a more balanced and modern driving experience.
Model Range Comparison
XC Falcon range:
- Sedan, Wagon, Utility, Panel Van
- Fairmont luxury variant
- 2 door models
XD Falcon range:
- Sedan, Wagon, Utility, Panel Van
- Fairmont luxury variant
- GS and GT performance variants
- Optional GT-HO for enthusiasts
The XD expanded comfort and usability while maintaining Falcon’s performance credentials, appealing to both families and performance enthusiasts.
Technology and Features
XC features included:
- Optional air conditioning
- Improved suspension and braking
- Refined interior trim
XD improvements included:
- Wider availability of disc brakes
- More refined suspension and ride quality
- Modernized dashboard and instrumentation
- Optional luxury and comfort upgrades
The XD emphasized usability, comfort, and safety while retaining performance capability.
Driving Experience
XC Falcon
Strengths:
- Strong V8 performance
- Comfortable ride for its era
- Legendary muscle car character
Weaknesses:
- Handling limitations on high-speed driving
- Slightly dated ergonomics
XD Falcon
Improvements:
- Smoother, more stable ride
- Improved handling and braking response
- Modernized interior for driver comfort
- Maintained performance potential for GT variants
The XD was more refined, safer, and easier to drive daily without sacrificing Falcon performance DNA.
Reliability and Common Problems
XC Falcon
- Generally robust mechanicals
- Rust in sills, guards, and panels
- High-performance GT-HO models require careful maintenance
XD Falcon
- Improved mechanical reliability
- Better suspension and braking components
- Rust still present but less severe due to improved design
- High-performance variants require maintenance
Both remain collectible classics with proper care.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- XC: High for 2 door and V8 models, standard models more affordable
- XD: Slightly lower for standard models; ESP and V8 variants collectible
Parts Availability:
- Strong support for both generations
- Performance-specific parts more expensive
Running Costs:
- Similar for standard models
- High-performance variants cost more to maintain
Collector and Enthusiast Value
XC Falcon:
- Final “coke bottle” model
- Historical muscle car significance
XD Falcon:
- First completely new Falcon body design post-XC
- Modernized performance and comfort
- Less “classic” muscle car feel, but important for evolution
Choose XC if:
- You want the ultimate “coke bottle” Falcon
- You are after one of the last 2 door Falcons or a ‘metal bumper’ Falcon
- You prefer raw classic character
Choose XD if:
- You want a modernized Falcon with improved ride, handling, and safety
- You want a bridge between classic muscle and 1980s Falcons
Verdict – Which Is Better?
The XC represents the pinnacle of the original “coke bottle” Falcons — raw, legendary, and collectible. The XD marked the start of a new era — more refined, modern, and balanced — while preserving the Falcon’s performance heritage.
XC Falcon: Classic, raw muscle, final “coke bottle” GT-HO legend.
XD Falcon: Modernized refinement, improved handling, continued GT-HO performance, bridge to 1980s Falcons. For collectors, the XC is prized for history and raw muscle car pedigree, while the XD is valued for refinement and evolution in the Falcon story. Together, they illustrate the Falcon’s transition from 1970s muscle car icon to modern Australian performance sedan