The XT Ford Falcon was released in 1968. Here is a bit of a snapshot of what things were like and what things costs in Australia at that time. The landscape has changed a lot since the XT was first released and it is interesting to see where things were back then vs how they are today. Where were you when the XT Falcon was first released?
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