The Ford P6 LTD was introduced in September 1976 as the second generation of Australia’s locally developed LTD (Lincoln‑Type Design) luxury sedan. It replaced the original P5‑series LTD and continued Ford Australia’s march upmarket, selling alongside Ford’s ZH Fairlane range and XC Falcon.
Overview
Production years: September 1976 – September 1979
Platform: Extended Falcon/ZH Fairlane–based luxury chassis
Body styles:
- 4‑door sedan (LTD)
Unlike the P5 series, the P6 did not include a production Landau coupe — the Landau was discontinued by the time P6 arrived.
The P6 LTD was marketed as a true executive chauffeur‑driven limousine‑style sedan, bringing a more contemporary luxury presence compared with its predecessor.
Model Variants
Main variants:
- P6 LTD Sedan: Standard luxury‑spec four‑door limousine
- P6 LTD Silver Monarch: Limited edition luxury variant celebrating the Silver Jubilee (mid‑1977 onward)
- P6 LTD Town Car: 1978 special edition with unique trim and accessories
Key Features & Luxury Appointments
The P6 LTD was significantly more sophisticated than the contemporary Falcon or Fairlane, with many standard luxuries that were rare at the time:
- Rolls‑Royce‑inspired vertical‑bar grille unique to the LTD
- Full power accessories (windows, steering)
- Air conditioning and heater/demister systems
- Four‑wheel disc brakes with power assistance
- Laminated windscreen and extensive interior lighting
- Luxury interior trim with plush upholstery, woodgrain dashboard accents, and heated rear vents on some options
These features made the P6 LTD one of the most well‑appointed executive cars of its era in Australia.
Engine & Drivetrain
The P6 LTD retained Ford Australia’s proven big‑block V8 powerplant:
Engine
- 5.8 L (351 cu in) Cleveland V8
- Power: ~162 kW
- Torque: ~429 Nm
- 4‑barrel carburettor designed to meet emissions controls
This was the sole engine offered in the P6 LTD — no six‑cylinder option — keeping the focus on effortless luxury performance.
Transmission
- 3‑speed automatic — T‑bar floor shift standard
Drivetrain
- Rear‑wheel drive
- 9‑inch limited‑slip differential
- Long‑ratio rear axle (2.75:1) for smooth highway cruising
Performance & Ride Quality
The P6 LTD was not a muscle car, but a luxury cruiser:
- Smooth, torque‑rich V8 for effortless highway cruising
- Suspension tuned for comfort rather than sport
- Extended wheelbase (approx 3074 mm) gave excellent rear passenger legroom and a dignified ride presence
- Four‑wheel disc brakes and power steering made driving substantial distances relaxed
While not a sports sedan, its presence and smooth power delivery made it ideal for chauffeuring, executive duties, and long‑range touring.
Reliability & Common Issues
As a mechanical classic, the P6 LTD has some age‑related points to be aware of:
Typical areas to inspect:
- Suspension wear (bushes and shocks)
- Cooling system components (radiator, hoses)
- Rust in sills, floor pans, wheel arches
- Automatic transmission wear over high km
- Carburettor tune/idle issues common on classic V8s
Despite these, the P6 LTD shares simple, robust mechanicals with other Falcon‑derived cars, making servicing easier than some European contemporaries.
Collector Appeal & Market
- Groundbreaking luxury for its era — often used in chauffeur, diplomatic, or official functions
- Limited production: about 5,896 units built from 1976–1979
- Special editions such as Silver Monarch and Town Car attract collectors
- Strong presence at Australian classic car shows and auctions
Values vary widely based on condition, originality, and documentation, but well‑preserved cars command healthy prices due to low survivor numbers and historical significance.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Strong visual identity with Rolls‑Royce inspired grille
- Big‑block V8 power and smooth automatic
- Excellent ride comfort and rear passenger space
- High standard equipment for the era
Weaknesses
- Fuel consumption high by modern standards
- Classic‑car maintenance and rust challenges
- Electronics and trim parts rarer than Falcon equivalents
Why the P6 LTD Matters
The P6 LTD stands out as Australia’s first genuine locally developed luxury limousine‑style sedan — not just a big Falcon — and was influential in shaping Ford’s executive lineup through to the later LTD and Fairlane generations.
It also demonstrates Ford’s response to increasing competition in the 1970s luxury segment, especially from Holden’s Statesman/Caprice force.
Conclusion
The P6 LTD (1976–1979) represents a rich chapter in Australian automotive history. With its powerful V8, luxurious appointments, and distinctive Rolls‑Royce‑esque styling, it remains a sought‑after classic for collectors and enthusiasts who value 1970s executive comfort and presence.