EA Falcon Complete Guide (1988–1991)

The EA Falcon was released in 1988 as a significant redesign of Ford Australia’s long-running Falcon line. It replaced the XF Falcon and introduced the “New Generation” EA platform, featuring more modern styling, updated chassis dynamics, and improved safety features.

The EA was controversial at launch due to its styling, but it represented a major step forward in ride comfort, handling, and technology for Australian large cars. Today, surviving EA Falcons are rare but remain important in Falcon history as the basis for all 1990s Falcons.

EA Falcon Overview

Production years: 1988–1991
Platform: New EA platform
Body styles:

  • Sedan
  • Wagon
  • Ute

Major updates over XF Falcon:

  • Completely new platform
  • Improved chassis rigidity
  • Updated suspension design
  • Modernized interior
  • Better safety features (driver airbags introduced later in series)
  • Revised engine options

The EA marked a significant engineering evolution for Ford, emphasizing comfort and stability over outright performance.

EA Falcon Series Updates

The EA was produced in two main series:

EA Series I (1988–1989)
Initial release model with new styling and chassis.

EA Series II (1989–1991)
Refinements including:

  • Improved ride and handling
  • Braking upgrades
  • Minor interior revisions
  • Engine updates for reliability

Series II cars are generally considered more desirable today due to improved performance and reliability.

EA Falcon Model Range

Ford offered a traditional range of Falcon trims:

Falcon GL – Base model
Falcon GLi – Upgraded base
Falcon S – Sports appearance model
Fairmont – Luxury model
Fairmont Ghia – Premium luxury

The EA focused primarily on comfort and fleet appeal.

EA Falcon Engines

The EA Falcon used updated versions of Ford’s inline six engines.

Inline Six Engines

3.2L SOHC Inline Six:

  • Approx 120 kW
  • Approx 300–310 Nm

Known for durability and smooth torque delivery.

3.9L SOHC Inline Six:

  • Approx 138 kW
  • Approx 320–330 Nm

EA Falcon Transmissions

Transmission options included:

4-speed automatic – Most common and durable
5-speed manual – Available in sportier trims

Both were mechanically simple, contributing to EA’s long-term reliability.

EA Falcon Key Specifications

Typical EA GLi:

  • Engine: 3.9L inline six
  • Power: approx 138 kW
  • Torque: approx 320–330 Nm
  • Fuel economy: 11–13 L/100 km
  • Drivetrain: RWD

EA Falcon Driving Experience

The EA Falcon prioritized comfort and stability over outright performance.

Key characteristics:

  • Soft but controlled suspension
  • Comfortable highway ride
  • Predictable rear-wheel-drive handling
  • Strong low-end torque
  • Spacious interior for family and fleet use

The EA laid the foundation for the XR6/XR8 performance line introduced later.

EA Falcon Reliability

The EA Falcon is generally regarded as reliable for its era.

Strengths include:

  • Simple inline six engines
  • Durable mechanical components
  • Limited complex electronics
  • Easy maintenance

Surviving examples can still run reliably with proper servicing.

Common EA Falcon Problems

Most issues today relate to age rather than original design.

Cooling System Wear

  • Radiator deterioration
  • Hose and thermostat ageing

Suspension Ageing

  • Bushes, ball joints, and shock absorbers commonly need replacement

Electrical Issues

  • Window regulators
  • Central locking
  • Dashboard electronics

Engine and Transmission

  • Oil leaks around age
  • Automatic transmission wear in higher km examples

Preventative maintenance can significantly reduce common issues.

EA Falcon Running Costs

EA Falcons remain affordable to own due to simplicity.

Ownership factors:

  • Purchase price: Very low
  • Parts cost: Affordable
  • Servicing: Moderate
  • Fuel consumption: Moderate

Due to age, maintenance is the biggest factor in cost.

Is the EA Falcon a Good Used Car Today?

EA Falcons are now mostly of interest to:

  • Enthusiasts of Australian automotive history
  • Budget classic buyers
  • DIY restoration and project cars

Good choice if you want:

  • Classic 80s–90s Australian RWD
  • Simple mechanical design
  • Easy DIY maintenance

Less ideal if you want:

  • Modern safety and technology
  • Daily reliability without maintenance

What To Check When Buying an EA Falcon

  • Cooling system condition
  • Suspension wear
  • Body panels for rust and alignment
  • Transmission and engine health
  • Rust (especially in chassis and sills)
  • Electrical system function
  • Interior wear

Service history is critical for surviving vehicles.

EA Falcon Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

  • Proven mechanical components
  • Simple engineering
  • Comfortable ride for its era
  • Affordable ownership
  • Strong parts availability

Weaknesses

  • Age-related issues
  • Limited safety features
  • Fuel consumption
  • Dated interior design
  • Rare as a surviving car

Why the EA Falcon Still Matters

The EA Falcon is important because it:

  • Established the modern 1990s Falcon platform
  • Provided the foundation for EB/ED/EL/AU Falcons
  • Influenced XR6/XR8 performance evolution
  • Marked a shift in Australian RWD sedan design

It represents the start of the modern Falcon era.

Conclusion

The EA Falcon represents a foundational model in the modern Falcon lineage. While it is now primarily of interest to enthusiasts or collectors, it set the engineering and design template for all 1990s Falcons.

For buyers today, EA Falcons are best suited as project cars, classic budget entries, or for enthusiasts looking to explore early XR heritage.

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