The XB Falcon was produced by Ford Australia between 1973 and 1976 as the successor to the XA Falcon. It retained the classic Falcon sedan, wagon, and ute designs while introducing updated styling, refined mechanics, and a stronger focus on comfort and performance.
The XB is historically significant for its muscle car variants, including the Falcon GT, and remains highly collectible today. It was popular with families, fleets, and performance enthusiasts alike.
XB Falcon Overview
Production years: 1973–1976
Platform: XA/XB Falcon platform
Body styles:
- Sedan
- Wagon
- Ute
Major updates over XA Falcon:
- Revised front and rear styling
- Improved suspension for ride comfort
- Enhanced brakes
- Interior refinements
- Improved mechanical reliability
The XB represented a maturing Falcon design, balancing comfort, utility, and performance.
XB Series Updates
The XB was produced as a single series with minor updates during its run:
- Exterior styling tweaks (grille, lights, trim)
- Interior comfort upgrades
- Minor mechanical and suspension refinements
- V8 tuning improvements for better performance
XB Falcon Model Range
Ford offered the following trims:
Falcon GL – Base model, sedan and fleet use
Falcon GLi – Mid-range comfort upgrade
Falcon Futura – Mid-level family sedan
Falcon Fairmont – Luxury trim
Falcon Fairmont Ghia – Premium luxury
Falcon Ute and Wagon – Commercial/family variants
Performance models:
- Falcon GT – 351ci V8 performance model
- Early GT variants became cult classics and are now highly collectible
XB Falcon Engines
The XB offered inline six and V8 engines:
Inline Six Engines
3.3L and 4.1L Inline Six:
- Power: ~90–104 kW
- Torque: ~220–280 Nm
Reliable and easy to maintain, suitable for families and fleets.
V8 Engines
- 4.9L Windsor V8: ~140 kW, ~350 Nm
- 5.8L Windsor V8: ~165 kW, ~420 Nm
GT V8: 351ci Cleveland V8 producing ~210–220 kW (~280 hp), famous in muscle car culture.
XB Falcon Transmissions
- 4-speed manual – Base and GLi models
- 5-speed manual – Rare, for performance trims
- 3-speed automatic – Most common, reliable and simple
- 3-speed manual in GT – For performance orientation
XB Key Specifications
Typical XB GLi:
- Engine: 4.1L inline six
- Power: 104 kW
- Torque: 280 Nm
- Fuel consumption: 12–15 L/100 km
- Drivetrain: RWD
GT V8:
- Engine: 5.8L Windsor or 351ci Cleveland
- Power: up to 220 kW
- Torque: 420 Nm
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, live rear axle, tuned for comfort and stability.
XB Driving Experience
- Smooth, comfortable ride for families and fleets
- Predictable RWD handling
- Strong torque from inline six and V8
- GT variants offered true muscle car performance
- Spacious cabin, practical for long drives
XB Falcon Reliability
XB Falcons are mechanically robust:
- Durable engines (six and V8)
- Minimal electronics
- Easy-to-service drivetrains
- Proven fleet reliability
- Parts availability remains strong
GT variants may require more specialist attention due to performance components.
Common XB Problems
- Suspension wear: bushings, shocks, steering
- Cooling system issues: radiator leaks, hoses, thermostat
- Electrical issues: dashboard instruments, window regulators
- Engine/transmission: oil leaks, automatic wear in high km cars
Preventative maintenance is key to keeping an XB reliable.
XB Falcon Running Costs
- Purchase price: affordable for base models
- Parts: relatively cheap
- Servicing: moderate
- Fuel consumption: moderate-high for V8s
Is the XB a Good Used Car Today?
XB Falcons are most appealing to:
- Classic Australian car enthusiasts
- Muscle car collectors (GT variants)
- Restoration or DIY projects
Good choice if you want:
- Classic 1970s Falcon
- Mechanical simplicity
- Muscle car driving experience
Less ideal if you want modern safety or fuel efficiency.
What To Check When Buying an XB Falcon
- Suspension components
- Cooling system
- Engine oil leaks
- Transmission operation
- Rust (sills, floors, chassis)
- Electrical system
- Interior condition
GT variants require checks for engine authenticity and originality.
XB Falcon Market Value Trends
- Base GL/GLi: low, affordable classic
- Fairmont: moderate, increasing collector interest
- GT 351ci Cleveland: highly collectible, rising value
- Well-maintained low km examples are rare and sought after
XB Falcon Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Robust six and V8 engines
- Simple, reliable mechanicals
- Comfortable ride
- Muscle car potential in GT
- Easy maintenance
Weaknesses
- Dated styling by modern standards
- Limited safety features
- Fuel consumption, especially V8
- Age-related mechanical and rust issues
XB vs XA Falcon
- XB improvements: wider track, suspension refinement, interior upgrades, minor styling changes
- XB advantages: more refined handling, better comfort, improved durability
Why the XB Falcon Still Matters
- Iconic 1970s Australian Falcon
- Muscle car heritage with GT variants
- Popular with families, fleets, and enthusiasts
- Laid groundwork for XC/XD/XE Falcon evolution
Conclusion
The XB Falcon is a classic Australian Falcon with a combination of reliability, comfort, and performance, particularly in GT variants. It remains highly collectible and represents a key piece of 1970s Falcon history.