Cost of a new Ford XT Falcon
- Base sedan models started at approximately $3,200–$3,500
- Deluxe and GT models ranged from $3,800–$4,500 depending on specification
- The XT featured minor styling updates, improved interiors, and performance refinements to the GT.
Cost of a Ford ZB Fairlane
- Base ZB Fairlane sedan started at around $5,500–$5,800
- Higher-spec Fairlane models could exceed $6,500–$7,000
- The Fairlane was marketed as Ford’s luxury alternative to the Falcon, aimed at executives and families wanting premium features.
Average wage
- Average weekly wage: about $60–$65 per week
- Average annual wage: about $3,100–$3,400
Average house price
- Around $12,000–$13,500
Price of petrol
- Around 10–11 cents per litre
Prime Minister
- John Gorton (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
- About 12.3 million people
Top-grossing movie
- 2001: A Space Odyssey was one of the top films internationally.
- Other major releases included Planet of the Apes and Funny Girl.
Top song
- Hey Jude by The Beatles topped Australian charts.
Significant world event
- The Vietnam War continued, with growing Australian involvement.
- The space race continued to captivate global audiences.
Popular TV / radio in Australia
- Homicide, Division 4, and Bellbird were widely watched.
- Bandstand remained the most influential music program for youth.
- Radio Top‑40 stations remained central to pop culture.
Significant Australian news story
- Increasing debate over conscription and Australia’s role in Vietnam.
- Suburban expansion and car ownership growth continued to shape society.
Interesting comparisons
These comparisons help place the XT Falcon and ZB Fairlane into everyday Australian life:
- The XT Falcon cost roughly one year’s average wage, while the ZB Fairlane cost around 1.8–2 years’ average wage
- The average house cost about 4 times annual income
- Filling the ~55L tank in a Falcon cost about $6, while a Fairlane’s larger V8 could push it slightly higher
- A week’s wages could buy roughly 550–600 litres of petrol
- The XT GT continued Australia’s muscle car legacy, while the Fairlane represented luxury and comfort for executives