The XB Falcon, introduced in 1973, represents one of the most celebrated classic Falcons in Australian automotive history. With its cleaner lines, improved safety, and expanded engine options, the XB series became a versatile platform for family sedans, performance cars, and utility vehicles.
Understanding the XB Falcon trim levels, engine choices, and transmission options is essential for restorers, collectors, and enthusiasts aiming for authenticity and value.
XB Falcon Sedan
The Falcon Sedan was the base model, designed for practicality and reliability.
Interior & Trim Features
- Vinyl bench seats
- Simple dashboard with essential gauges
- Rubber floor mats
- Optional heater
Engine Options
- 200ci inline six (3.3L)
- 250ci inline-six (4.1L) – base engine
- 302ci Windsor V8 – optional
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual (column shift)
- 4-speed manual (V8 option)
- 3-speed automatic
Collector insight:
Well-preserved Sedans are rare, making them appealing for restorers looking for period-correct builds.
XB Falcon 500 Sedan
The 500 Sedan offered more comfort and styling than the base model, and was the most popular XB Falcon variant.
Interior & Trim Features
- Upgraded vinyl or cloth upholstery
- Full carpeting
- Padded dashboard with chrome accents
- Optional radio
Engine Options
- 200ci inline six (3.3L)
- 250ci inline-six (4.1L)
- 302ci Windsor V8
- 351ci Windsor V8 (available in later models)
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual (V8 models)
- 3-speed automatic
Enthusiast note:
Deluxe Sedans with V8 engines are highly collectible today, especially when restored with original interiors and matching numbers.
XB Falcon Futura Sedan
The Futura Sedan offered more refinement and luxury than the base model.
Interior & Trim Features
- Upgraded vinyl or cloth upholstery
- Full carpeting
- Padded dashboard with chrome accents
- Optional radio
Engine Options
- 200ci inline six (3.3L)
- 250ci inline-six (4.1L)
- 302ci Windsor V8
- 351ci Windsor V8 (available in later models)
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual (V8 models)
- 3-speed automatic
Enthusiast note:
Futura Sedans with V8 engines are highly collectible today, especially when restored with original interiors and matching numbers. XB Futuras do have collectible value, even if not V8
XB Falcon GT
The XB GT is the muscle-car icon of the XB range and represents the pinnacle of early Australian Falcon performance.
Interior & Trim Features
- Bucket seats with optional centre console
- Full instrumentation, including tachometer
- GT-specific exterior decals and badging
- Woodgrain-style dash accents
Engine Options
- 351ci Windsor V8 (standard)
- Optional high-performance GT-HO engine (351ci V8 with enhanced heads, camshaft, and intake)
Transmission Options
- 4-speed manual floor-shift (standard)
- Optional 3-speed automatic
Collector appeal:
XB GT Falcons are among the most collectible and iconic Australian muscle cars ever produced.
XB Falcon Fairmont
The Fairmont represented luxury in the XB range, combining comfort with optional performance.
Interior & Trim Features
- Premium upholstery and carpeting
- Woodgrain dashboard
- Bucket seats optional
- Full instrumentation
- Extra chrome and stainless 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 are increasingly collectible due to their combination of comfort, style, and performance.
XB Falcon Station Wagon
The Station Wagon offered family versatility with spacious cargo areas and optional Deluxe trim.
Interior & Trim Features
- Fold-down rear bench seat
- Vinyl or cloth upholstery
- Durable cargo flooring
Engine Options
- 250ci inline-six
- 302ci or 351ci Windsor V8
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual
- 3-speed Automatic
Restoration note:
Factory-original V8 wagons are increasingly rare, making them sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
XB Falcon Utility (Ute) & Panel Van
The Utility (Ute) and Panel Van were rugged, practical vehicles for tradespeople and rural users.
Interior & Trim Features
- Vinyl bench seat
- Rubber flooring
- Heavy-duty rear suspension
- Minimal interior 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:
XB V8 Utes and Panel Vans are highly collectible today, particularly when restored to factory specifications.
XB Falcon Engine Summary
| Engine | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 200ci | Inline-six | Base model engine |
| 250ci | Inline-six | Entry-level six-cylinder engine, most common |
| 302ci | V8 | Popular early V8; desirable in Deluxe and Fairmont models |
| 351ci | V8 | GT variants; highly collectible |
XB Falcon Transmission Summary
- 3-speed column manual
- 4-speed floor-shift manual (V8 models)
- 3-speed automatic (floor or column)
Manual V8 Falcons are the most collectible, while factory automatic V8s are appreciating in value.
Why the XB Falcon Matters
The XB Falcon remains a cornerstone of Australian automotive history because:
- It refined the muscle car formula with the GT and GT-HO
- Offered a broad range of trims to suit families, trades, and enthusiasts
- Introduced styling and interior improvements that define early 1970s Falcons
For restorers, matching trim, engine, and transmission is essential for authenticity and collector value.