The XA Falcon, released in 1972, represented a major redesign in the Falcon lineage, with sharper, squared-off styling, improved interiors, and enhanced performance options. The XA was the first Falcon built entirely in Australia with unique local design cues, making it a favourite among collectors and classic car enthusiasts.
Understanding the trim levels, engine options, and transmissions is essential for anyone restoring, collecting, or just appreciating the XA Falcon.
XA Falcon Sedan
The Falcon Sedan was the entry-level model, aimed at families and fleet buyers seeking a reliable daily driver.
Interior & Trim Features
- Vinyl bench seating
- Basic dashboard with essential gauges
- Rubber floor mats
- Optional heater
Engine Options
- 200ci inline-six (3.3L) – base engine
- 250ci inline-six (4.1L) – optional
- 302ci V8 (4.9L) – optional
- 351ci V8 (5.8L) – optional
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual (column shift)
- 4-speed manual
- 3-speed automatic
Collector insight:
Original Sedans are rare today, making them ideal for authentic restorations or “sleeper” builds.
XA Falcon Deluxe Sedan
The Deluxe Sedan offered additional comfort and styling over the Standard, making it the most widely purchased XA Falcon.
Interior & Trim Features
- Upgraded vinyl or cloth upholstery
- Full carpeting
- Padded dashboard with chrome trim
- Optional radio
Engine Options
- 200ci inline six (3.3L)
- 250ci inline-six (4.1L)
- 302ci Windsor V8 (4.9L)
- 351ci Windsor V8 (5.8L) (introduced late in production)
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual (floor-shift for V8)
- 3-speed automatic
Enthusiast note:
Deluxe Sedans with 302 or 351 V8 engines are highly collectible and hold significant value for restoration projects.
XA Falcon GT
The XA GT was the performance flagship, carrying the Falcon into the muscle-car era.
Interior & Trim Features
- Bucket seats with optional centre console
- Woodgrain dashboard accents
- Full instrumentation, including tachometer
- GT-specific exterior decals and badging
Engine Options
- 351ci Windsor V8 (standard)
- GT specification upgrades with performance camshaft, heads, and intake
Transmission Options
- 4-speed manual (floor-shift standard)
- Optional 3-speed automatic
Collector appeal:
The XA GT is highly prized among Australian muscle car collectors.
XA Falcon Fairmont
The Fairmont represented the luxury end of the XA Falcon range.
Interior & Trim Features
- Premium upholstery and carpeting
- Woodgrain dashboard and trim
- Bucket seats optional
- Full instrumentation
- Additional chrome and stainless steel trim
Engine Options
- 250ci inline-six
- 302ci or 351ci Windsor V8
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual (V8)
- 3-speed automatic
Collector insight:
Fairmont V8s combine comfort with performance, making them desirable among collectors seeking luxury-classic Falcons.
XA Falcon Station Wagon
The Station Wagon catered to families needing versatility and cargo capacity.
Interior & Trim Features
- Fold-down rear bench
- Durable cargo floor
- Vinyl or cloth upholstery
- Optional Deluxe trim features
Engine Options
- 200ci inline six (3.3L)
- 250ci inline-six (4.1L)
- 302ci or 351ci Windsor V8
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual
- 3-speed Automatic
Restoration note:
Factory-original wagons with six-cylinder engines are rare; V8 wagons are even more collectible.
XA Falcon Utility (Ute) & Panel Van
The Utility (Ute) and Panel Van were essential for tradespeople, combining durability with Falcon style.
Interior & Trim Features
- Vinyl bench seat
- Rubber flooring
- Heavy-duty rear suspension
- Minimal chrome and trim
Engine Options
- 200ci inline six
- 250ci inline-six
- 302ci or 351ci Windsor V8
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual
- 3-speed automatic
Market insight:
XA V8 Utes and Panel Vans are rare, increasingly sought after by collectors, and often restored to factory specification for authenticity.
XA Falcon Engine Summary
| Engine | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 200ci | Inline-six | Entry-level engine; rare today |
| 250ci | Inline-six | Most common six-cylinder |
| 302ci | V8 | Early V8 for XA, collectible |
| 351ci | V8 | GT and higher spec models, highly sought-after |
XA Falcon Transmission Summary
- 3-speed column manual
- 4-speed floor-shift manual
- 3-speed automatic (floor or column)
Manual V8s are the most collectible, while automatic V8s are increasingly valuable to enthusiasts.
Why the XA Falcon Matters
The XA Falcon is a cornerstone of Australian motoring history because it:
- Introduced squared-off styling that defined the 1970s Falcon
- Made V8 performance more accessible across body styles
- Offered a wide range of trims for families, trades, and muscle-car enthusiasts
For collectors and restorers, maintaining correct trim, engine, and transmission combinations is key to authenticity and long-term value.