The Big Leap into the Modern Era
By 1998, the Ford Falcon had been a cornerstone of Australian motoring for over 45 years. The EL Falcon had refined the New Edge design, delivering comfortable, reliable, and capable family and performance cars. However, Ford Australia sought a bold leap forward to meet changing market expectations — both in styling and engineering.
The AU Falcon represented a complete redesign of the Falcon. While it retained the rear-wheel-drive layout and performance pedigree of its predecessors, the AU introduced a completely new platform, dramatically different styling, updated engines, and modernized interiors. The AU marked the beginning of a new era for Falcon enthusiasts.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
EL Falcon styling included:
- Refined New Edge body
- Subtle front and rear updates
- Aerodynamic curves and smooth panels
AU Falcon introduced:
- Completely new, rounded and flowing design
- Smooth, aerodynamic body with minimal sharp edges
- Integrated headlights and grille with a modern look
- Pronounced curves and wider stance
- Optional sports trims on XR6 and XR8 variants
The AU looked completely different from the EL, with a radical departure from New Edge styling, dividing opinions at launch but pushing Falcon firmly into a modern era.
Interior Design
EL interior highlights included:
- Modernized New Edge dashboard
- Comfortable seats and ergonomic controls
- Air conditioning, power windows, mirrors
AU interior improvements included:
- Completely redesigned dashboard with integrated controls
- Driver-focused cockpit for better ergonomics
- Updated instrument cluster with clear gauges
- Redesigned seats with improved support
- Wider availability of features like air conditioning, cruise control, and luxury options
The AU interior was a major step forward, more modern, comfortable, and driver-oriented than the EL.
Platform and Engineering Changes
The AU represented a major mechanical evolution over the EL:
Chassis and suspension:
- All-new platform with independent rear suspension (IRS) on sedans (first time for Falcon)
- MacPherson strut front suspension
- Improved handling, ride comfort, and high-speed stability
Brakes and safety:
- Disc brakes on all wheels standard
- ABS standard on most models
- Stronger body structure and improved occupant safety
Performance engineering:
- Updated six-cylinder and V8 engines with improved fuel efficiency
- Better weight distribution for handling
- Modern driveline for smoother and more responsive performance
The AU delivered a modern, capable, and more refined driving experience, while maintaining the rear-wheel-drive DNA Falcon enthusiasts loved.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
Engine Options
EL Falcon engines:
Six-cylinder:
- 4.0L inline six standard
- 4.0L High Output XR6
V8:
- 5.0L Windsor V8 XR8 and GT
AU Falcon engines:
Six-cylinder:
- 4.0L “Intech” inline six with updated fuel injection
- XR6 High Output variant refined for smoothness and efficiency
V8:
- 5.0L Windsor V8 in XR8 with improved performance and refinement
- Optional manual and automatic transmissions
The AU engines were modernized for better efficiency, smoother delivery, and compliance with late-1990s emissions, while still offering strong performance.
Transmission Options
Both EL and AU offered:
- 4-speed automatic
- 5-speed manual optional on XR variants
- Transmission refinements for smoother operation and reliability
Performance Comparison
The AU provided:
- Independent rear suspension for better cornering and stability
- More responsive handling and refined ride
- Improved braking performance and pedal feel
- Retained XR6/XR8 performance potential with smoother delivery
Compared to the EL, the AU felt more modern, planted, and confident at high speeds.
Model Range Comparison
EL Falcon range:
- Sedan, Wagon
- Fairmont luxury variant
- XR6 and XR8 performance variants
AU Falcon range:
- Sedan, Wagon, Utility
- Fairmont luxury variant with updated features
- XR6 and XR8 with independent rear suspension and improved performance
- Optional luxury and convenience packages
The AU expanded comfort, technology, and performance while introducing a new era of driving dynamics.
Technology and Features
EL features included:
- Refined New Edge interior and cabin
- Air conditioning, power windows, mirrors
- Cruise control optional
AU improvements included:
- Redesigned cockpit with integrated controls
- Driver-focused instrumentation
- Wider availability of modern convenience features
- Independent rear suspension for sedans
- Enhanced safety with ABS and stronger body
The AU emphasized modern driving comfort, safety, and performance, setting a new benchmark for Falcons.
Driving Experience
EL Falcon
Strengths:
- Comfortable, reliable mid-1990s ride
- XR6/XR8 performance capable
- Classic Falcon handling
Weaknesses:
- Older New Edge styling
- Handling and refinement behind AU standards
AU Falcon
Improvements:
- Smoother, more refined ride
- Sharper, more confident handling
- Improved braking and steering response
- Modern interior and feature-rich cockpit
The AU offered a fully modern driving experience while keeping Falcon’s rear-wheel-drive spirit alive.
Reliability and Common Problems
EL Falcon
- Mechanically reliable
- Rust issues in older panels
- XR6/XR8 require regular maintenance
AU Falcon
- Generally reliable with improved engineering
- Early models had minor gearbox and suspension teething issues
- Rust can affect older vehicles, especially in panel edges
- Performance XR6/XR8 require routine care
The AU benefited from modern engineering but required attention in early build years.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- EL: Affordable standard models; XR variants collectible
- AU: Higher value for early AU XR6/XR8; standard models moderately priced
Parts Availability:
- Good support for both generations
- AU parts more expensive, especially for performance models
Running Costs:
- Similar for standard models
- High-performance XR6/XR8 variants cost more to maintain
Collector and Enthusiast Value
EL Falcon:
- Mid-1990s New Edge design
- Comfortable, reliable, XR6/XR8 lineage
- Practical classic
AU Falcon:
- Radical New Edge-to-modern redesign
- Independent rear suspension on sedans
- XR6/XR8 performance evolution
- Highly collectible due to bold styling and modern features
Choose EL if:
- You value classic mid-1990s Falcon simplicity
- You prefer New Edge design and older driving feel
Choose AU if:
- You want modern styling, independent rear suspension, and updated performance
- You value bold late-1990s Falcon design and collectibility
Verdict – Which Is Better?
The EL represents the refined New Edge Falcon, comfortable, reliable, and performance-capable. The AU made a major leap with completely new styling, independent rear suspension, refined engines, and a more modern interior, setting the Falcon firmly into the modern era.
EL Falcon: Comfortable, reliable mid-1990s Falcon with XR6/XR8 performance heritage.
AU Falcon: Bold redesign, independent rear suspension, modern interior, XR6/XR8 evolution. For collectors, the EL is appreciated for refinement and reliability, while the AU is prized for modern engineering, bold styling, and its significance in Falcon history. Together, they illustrate the Falcon’s transformation into a late-1990s performance and family sedan icon