Refining the Falcon for Mid-1980s Australia
By 1984, the Falcon had been an Australian icon for over two decades. The XE Falcon had modernised the platform, introducing improved handling, comfort, and more contemporary styling. However, Ford Australia was ready to refine the Falcon further, addressing evolving consumer expectations for comfort, technology, and performance.
The XF Falcon represented the next step in the Falcon’s evolution. While based on the XE platform, the XF introduced updated exterior styling, more modern interiors, and further suspension and drivetrain refinements, making it one of the most balanced Falcons of the 1980s. It would go on to be the top selling Falcon of all time, despite not being available as a V8.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
XE Falcon styling included:
- Squarer, early-1980s body lines
- Traditional grille and headlight layout
- Bonnet bulges on performance models
XF Falcon introduced:
- Modernized front grille with integrated indicators
- Cleaner, slightly more aerodynamic body lines
- Revised rear styling, including tail lights
- Optional sporty trims for GS and performance models
- Bonnet bulges retained for high-performance variants
The XF looked more contemporary than the XE, with subtle design cues signaling a more refined, mid-1980s aesthetic.
Interior Design
XE interior highlights included:
- Modern dashboard with clear gauges
- Comfortable seating
- Optional air conditioning and improved trim
XF interior improvements included:
- Redesigned instrument cluster with digital-style gauges on some variants
- Improved seat comfort and support
- Higher-quality trim materials
- Optional air conditioning across more models
- Better ergonomics for driver and passengers
The XF interior felt more modern, comfortable, and well-appointed, making longer drives less fatiguing.
Platform and Engineering Changes
The XF retained the XE platform but introduced refinements for comfort, handling, and reliability.
Chassis and suspension:
- Suspension geometry further tuned for improved ride comfort
- Strengthened components for high-performance models
- Improved stability at highway speeds
Brakes and safety:
- Disc brakes standard on more models
- Enhanced braking feel and stopping distances
- Reinforced body structure for improved crash safety
Performance engineering:
- Better cooling for V8 engines
- Optimized driveline and gearbox durability
- Refined handling for Fairmont models
The XF provided a smoother, more refined, and safer driving experience compared to the XE.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
Engine Options
XE Falcon engines:
Six-cylinder:
- 3.3L inline six
- 4.1L inline six
V8:
- 302 Windsor V8
- 351 Windsor V8
XF Falcon engines:
Six-cylinder:
- 3.3L inline six
- 4.1L inline six
While the 6 cylinder engine options were largely the same as the XE, the XF benefited from drivetrain and suspension refinements that improved handling and reliability.
Transmission Options
Both XE and XF offered:
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual on performance variants
- Optional automatic transmissions
High-performance models saw minor gearbox and clutch improvements in the XF for better drivability.
Performance Comparison
Performance for standard models was similar, but the XF provided:
- Smoother ride and improved high-speed stability
- Better braking confidence
- More responsive handling
The XF was a more balanced, everyday-drivable Falcon.
Model Range Comparison
XE Falcon range:
- Sedan, Wagon, Utility, Panel Van
- Fairmont luxury variant
XF Falcon range:
- Sedan, Wagon, Utility, Panel Van
- Fairmont luxury variant
The XF offered slightly more luxury, comfort, and usability while maintaining Falcon’s performance heritage.
Technology and Features
XE features included:
- Optional air conditioning
- Improved suspension and brakes
- Modern interior trim
XF improvements included:
- Wider availability of air conditioning and comfort options
- Updated dashboard and instrumentation
- Refined suspension and braking systems
- Slightly improved fuel efficiency and drivability
The XF emphasized comfort and usability while maintaining performance credentials.
Driving Experience
XE Falcon
Strengths:
- Comfortable ride
- Strong V8 performance
- Retained classic Falcon character
Weaknesses:
- Handling less precise compared to XF
- Interior ergonomics slightly dated
XF Falcon
Improvements:
- Smoother and more refined ride
- Sharper handling and braking
- Modernised interior
The XF was easier to drive daily while remaining fun for enthusiasts.
Reliability and Common Problems
XE Falcon
- Generally reliable
- Rust in sills, guards, and panels
- High-performance models require careful maintenance
- Door handles
XF Falcon
- Improved mechanical reliability
- Suspension and braking components more durable
- Rust still a concern, but less severe than XE
- Cooling issues
Both remain solid classics, with the XF offering slightly improved long-term reliability.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- XE: High for V8 variants; standard models affordable
- XF: Similar pricing; limited editions more collectible
Parts Availability:
- Strong support exists for both generations
- Performance-specific parts are scarce and expensive
Running Costs:
- Similar across standard models
- High-performance variants cost more to maintain
Collector and Enthusiast Value
XE Falcon:
- Early 1980s Falcon
- Historic significance as the bridge from late-70s muscle to modern Falcons
XF Falcon:
- Refined mid-1980s Falcon
- Comfortable, modernized, and not deemed as collectible
Choose XE if:
- You prefer rawer driving feel and early-1980s styling
- You value GT-HO history
Choose XF if:
- You want a more refined, comfortable Falcon with better ride and handling
- You want mid-1980s styling and features
- You want a practical collector car that’s easier to drive daily
Verdict – Which Is Better?
The XE represents the bridge from late-1970s Falcons to modern 1980s models, retaining performance and character. The XF refined that formula, offering improved handling, comfort, and usability while keeping GT and GS performance options alive.
XE Falcon: Raw early-1980s character, classic GT-HO lineage.
XF Falcon: Refined, comfortable, modernized, and balanced; collector-friendly. For enthusiasts, the XE is prized for character and historical significance, while the XF is valued for comfort, usability, and continued performance heritage. Together, they illustrate the evolution of the Falcon into a modern Australian performance sedan.