Cost of a new Ford XE Falcon
- Base sedan models started at approximately $8,000–$8,500
- Deluxe, GL, and GXL models ranged from $9,000–$10,000 depending on options
- The XE featured more aerodynamic styling, improved suspension, and fuel efficiency enhancements, reflecting the shift from classic muscle cars to practical family sedans.
Cost of a Ford ZK Fairlane
- Base ZK Fairlane sedan started at around $11,500–$12,000
- Higher-spec models could exceed $13,500, offering luxury features such as power windows, air conditioning, premium trim, and advanced audio systems.
Cost of a Ford FD LTD
- Base FD LTD models started at approximately $15,000–$16,000
- The LTD continued to be Ford Australia’s flagship luxury sedan, targeting executives and families seeking top-tier comfort, ride quality, and features.
Average wage
- Average weekly wage: about $250–$260 per week
- Average annual wage: about $13,000–$13,500
Average house price
- Around $65,000–$70,000
Price of petrol
- Around 70–75 cents per litre, reflecting the continued impact of global fuel pricing and the aftermath of the 1970s oil crises
Prime Minister
- Malcolm Fraser (Liberal Party) until March 1983
- Bob Hawke (Labor Party) won the election in March 1983, beginning a new era of Australian politics
Population of Australia
- About 15.3 million people
Top-grossing movie
- E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) was a worldwide phenomenon.
- Other popular films included Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back and An Officer and a Gentleman.
Top song
- Eye of the Tiger by Survivor was a chart-topper in Australia.
Significant world event
- The Falklands War between the UK and Argentina captured global attention.
- Economic recession and inflation were major concerns in Australia and worldwide.
Popular TV / radio in Australia
- Countdown and radio Top‑40 stations continued to shape youth music culture.
- Popular dramas included Cop Shop, Kingswood Country, and A Country Practice (1981–1993).
Significant Australian news story
- The transition from Fraser to Hawke government in 1983 marked major political and economic shifts.
- Economic pressures, fuel pricing, and consumer confidence shaped car purchasing decisions.
Interesting comparisons
- The XE Falcon cost roughly 0.6–0.7 of a year’s average wage, the ZK Fairlane about 0.9–1 year’s average wage, and the FD LTD about 1.2 years’ average wage
- The average house cost about 5 times a yearly wage
- Filling the ~60L tank in an XE Falcon cost about $45, while the larger Fairlane and LTD V8s could push it to $50–$55
- A week’s wages could buy roughly 330–340 litres of petrol
- The XE Falcon represented the shift to fuel-conscious and aerodynamic design, while Fairlane and LTD models offered luxury and executive comfort