The XD Falcon was produced by Ford Australia from 1979 to 1982, replacing the XC Falcon. It represented a significant refinement of the classic Falcon sedan, wagon, and ute lineup, introducing a wider track, improved suspension, and more modern styling.

The XD Falcon became popular with families, fleets, and performance enthusiasts due to its robust engines and comfortable ride. While largely overshadowed by later XE and XF Falcons, the XD remains a classic Australian rear-wheel-drive car with strong historical significance.

XD Falcon Overview

Production years: 1979–1982
Platform: XD Falcon platform
Body styles:

• Sedan
• Wagon
• Ute

Major updates over XC Falcon:

• Wider track for improved stability
• Revised suspension
• Lighter components
• Updated exterior styling
• Improved brakes
• More comfortable interior trim
• Stronger mechanical components

The XD marked a step forward in comfort and handling while retaining traditional Falcon characteristics.

XD Falcon Series Updates

• Front-end and grille styling adjustments
• Interior trim refinements
• Suspension and steering improvements
• Engine upgrades for reliability
• Addition of Alloy cylinder head in six cylinder model

XD Falcon Model Range

Ford offered the following trims:

Falcon GL – Base sedan and fleet model
Falcon S – Sports trim with improved performance
Falcon Fairmont – Luxury model
Falcon Fairmont Ghia – Premium luxury
Falcon Ute and Wagon – Commercial/family variants

Performance-oriented V8 options were available in GLi, S, and Fairmont trims.

XD Falcon Engines

The XD Falcon offered inline six and V8 engines:

Inline Six Engines

3.3L and 4.1L Inline Six:

• Power: approx 90–104 kW
• Torque: approx 220–280 Nm

Reliable and smooth, ideal for family sedans.

V8 Engines

4.9L and 5.8L Windsor V8:

• Power: approx 140–165 kW
• Torque: approx 350–420 Nm

V8s were popular in GLi, S, and Fairmont models for performance and highway driving.

XD Falcon Transmissions

Transmission options included:

4-speed manual – Base and GL models
5-speed manual – Limited availability for sport trims
3-speed automatic – Most common, durable and simple

All were mechanically straightforward, contributing to long-term reliability.

XD Falcon Key Specifications

Typical XD GLi:

• Engine: 4.1L inline six
• Power: approx 104 kW
• Torque: approx 280 Nm
• Fuel consumption: 12–14L/100 km
• Drivetrain: RWD

V8 option (5.8L):

• Power: approx 165 kW
• Torque: approx 420 Nm

Suspension: MacPherson strut front, live axle rear, tuned for comfort and fleet use.

XD Falcon Driving Experience

The XD Falcon offered a comfortable, traditional RWD ride:

• Smooth suspension, ideal for Australian roads
• Stable highway handling
• Strong torque delivery
• Spacious cabin and practical boot
• Comfortable long-distance driving

V8 models delivered more power and better passing performance, especially on highways.

XD Falcon Reliability

XD Falcons are generally robust and mechanically simple:

• Durable inline six and V8 engines
• Minimal electronics
• Easy to maintain drivetrain
• Strong chassis for fleet use
• Readily available spare parts

Many XD Falcons are still operational today, though condition depends heavily on age and maintenance.

Common XD Falcon Problems

Age-related wear dominates issues today:

Suspension Wear

• Bushes, ball joints, shock absorbers
• Steering component deterioration

Cooling System

• Radiator leaks
• Hose and thermostat failures

Electrical

• Dashboard aging
• Window regulator faults
• Central locking issues

Engine/Transmission

• Oil leaks
• Automatic transmission wear on high km cars

Preventative maintenance is essential to avoid major repairs.

XD Falcon Running Costs

The XD is affordable to own today due to:

• Low purchase price
• Cheap parts
• Simple servicing
• Moderate fuel consumption

Condition dictates ongoing costs for older vehicles.

Is the XD Falcon a Good Used Car Today?

The XD is primarily of interest to:

• Classic car enthusiasts
• Collectors
• RWD Falcon restoration projects
• Budget project cars

Good choice if you want:

• Classic Australian RWD sedan
• Simple mechanical design
• DIY maintenance potential

Less ideal if you want:

• Modern safety or comfort
• Fuel efficiency
• Daily reliability without attention
• Reliable door handles

What To Check When Buying an XD Falcon

• Suspension components
• Cooling system and radiator
• Engine oil leaks
• Transmission performance
• Rust (chassis, sills, floors)
• Electrical system function
• Interior condition

XD Falcon Market Value Trends

• Base GL models: affordable
• Fairmont and Ghia: higher collector interest
• V8 performance models: rising slowly in value
• Low km, well-maintained examples are rare

XD Falcon Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Durable inline six and V8 engines
• Simple mechanical systems
• Comfortable ride
• Easy maintenance
• RWD driving experience

Weaknesses

• Dated styling today
• Limited safety features
• Fuel consumption
• Age-related mechanical wear and rust

XD vs XC Falcon

XD improvements over XC:

• Wider track
• Suspension tuning
• Interior refinements
• Braking upgrades
• Smoother ride quality

XD advantages:

• Fleet durability
• Improved comfort
• Better handling than XC
• More refined styling

Why the XD Falcon Still Matters

The XD Falcon is historically significant because:

• It represents the last major 1970s–early 1980s Falcon refinement
• Set the stage for XE/Fairmont improvements
• Popular with families, fleets, and enthusiasts
• Mechanical simplicity makes it a classic restoration project

Conclusion

The XD Falcon remains an important classic Australian Falcon. Its robust mechanical design, comfortable ride, and RWD layout make it a sought-after vehicle for collectors and enthusiasts interested in early 1980s Falcons. While mostly retired from daily driving, the XD continues to be respected for reliability and simplicity.