10 Facts you may not have known about the EL
EL Falcon, NL Fairlane and DL LTD trim codes
Ford EF-EL Falcon VIN decoding
The EL Falcon was brought in to replace the EF Falcon. It was minor facelift of the previous model. It would be the fifth and final E-Series Falcon.
Cosmetically the EL was very similar to the EF. The main cosmetic differences were the use of amber rear indicators on the sedan and an oval shaped grille on both the sedan and the wagon.
It was the result of a $40 million investment by Ford Australia. The major focus for the EL Falcon was build quality and refining the ride to make it the smoothest, most luxurious feeling Falcon yet. This emphasis would pay dividends in the Australian market as the EL would turn out to be one of the most popular Falcons ever built, despite being very similar looking to the previous model and built on the same wheelbase as the EA Falcon from 10 years earlier.
This was also somewhat surprising for Ford as well. While they were hoping the EL would sell well most of their research and development time and money was tied up in finishing off the upcoming AU Falcon.
On release it was the only Australian built car with a drivers airbag as standard equipment. This was a huge selling point for the Falcon, making it very popular among everyday buyers as well as the fleet and taxi markets.
It was introduced in October 1996. Production would last just under two years when it was replaced by the AU Falcon is September 1998. During its time in production 133 461 EL’s were produced with prices starting from $29 594
The EL, available with one inline 6 (4.0L 157kW) engine and one V8 (5.0L 165kW) engine as well as a 4 speed automatic or a 5 speed manual.
10 Facts you may not have known about the EL
Ford EF- EL Falcon paint codes
EL Falcon, NL Fairlane and DL LTD trim codes