The XT Falcon was produced by Ford Australia between 1968 and 1969 as the replacement to the XR Falcon. It retained the “round-edged” styling of the 1960s Falcons while introducing improved suspension, brakes, and comfort.
The XT Falcon served as a reliable family and fleet car while also offering optional V8 power that would become a hallmark of the performance Falcons in the 1970s.
XT Overview
Production years: 1968–1969
Platform: XR/XT Falcon platform
Body styles:
- Sedan
- Wagon
- Ute
- Panelvan
Major updates over XR Falcon:
- Refined front and rear styling
- Improved suspension for ride comfort
- Braking upgrades
- Interior trim and comfort improvements
- New V8 engines introduced
The XT laid the groundwork for the XW/XY Falcon generations and early Australian GT lineage.
XT Series Updates
The XT was produced as a single series with minor revisions:
- Styling tweaks: new grille, bumpers, and trim
- Suspension tuning and brake improvements
- Interior dashboard refinements
- Minor engine upgrades for durability
XT Model Range
Ford offered several trims:
Falcon Standard – Base sedan and fleet models
Falcon Futura – Mid-level family sedan
Falcon Fairmont – Luxury trim
Falcon Fairmont Ghia – Premium luxury
Falcon Ute and Wagon – Commercial/family variants
Performance options:
- Optional 5.0L V8 introduced in higher trims, paving the way for future GT models
XT Falcon Engines
The XT featured inline six and optional V8 engines:
Inline Six Engines
- 3.3L Inline Six: ~85–90 kW, ~210–220 Nm
- 4.1L Inline Six: ~100–104 kW, ~270–280 Nm
Reliable and smooth for family and fleet vehicles.
V8 Engines
- 4.9L Windsor V8: ~140 kW, ~350 Nm
Optional V8s provided more torque and highway performance, particularly for Fairmont and GLi buyers.
XT Falcon Transmissions
- 4-speed manual – Base and GLi models
- 3-speed automatic – Most common, reliable
XT Key Specifications
Typical XT GLi:
- Engine: 4.1L inline six
- Power: 104 kW
- Torque: 280 Nm
- Fuel consumption: 12–14 L/100 km
- Drivetrain: RWD
V8 option (4.9L):
- Power: 165 kW
- Torque: 420 Nm
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, live rear axle, tuned for comfort and stability.
XT Driving Experience
- Smooth and comfortable ride for families and fleets
- Predictable RWD handling
- Inline six: reliable and economical
- V8: improved torque and highway passing performance
- Cabin spacious enough for daily driving
XT Falcons were durable, easy to maintain, and practical for Australian conditions.
XT Falcon Reliability
- Durable inline six and V8 engines
- Minimal electronics
- Proven fleet and family reliability
- Mechanically simple and easy to service
- Parts still available for standard components
Common XT Problems
- Suspension wear: bushes, shocks, ball joints
- Cooling system: radiator leaks, hoses, thermostat
- Electrical issues: dashboard instruments, window regulators
- Engine/transmission: oil leaks, automatic wear on high km examples
- Rust: floor pans, sills, chassis
XT Falcon Running Costs
- Purchase price: affordable for standard trims
- Parts: moderate cost
- Servicing: straightforward for inline six and V8
- Fuel consumption: moderate for six, higher for V8s
Is the XT Falcon a Good Used Car Today?
XT Falcons are primarily of interest to:
- Classic Australian car enthusiasts
- Early Falcon collectors
- Restoration and DIY project owners
Good choice if you want:
- Classic late-1960s RWD Falcon
- Simple, reliable mechanicals
- Entry-level classic Falcon ownership
Less ideal if you want modern safety, fuel economy, or daily convenience without maintenance.
What To Check When Buying an XT Falcon
- Suspension components
- Cooling system: radiator, hoses, thermostat
- Engine and transmission leaks
- Rust: sills, floor pans, chassis
- Electrical function
- Interior condition
- V8 authenticity in higher trims
XT Falcon Market Value Trends
- Base/Standard: not very affordable
- Futura: moderate collector interest
- V8-equipped models: higher value, increasingly sought after
- Well-maintained low km examples: rare and desirable
XT Falcon Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Robust inline six and V8 engines
- Simple, reliable mechanicals
- Comfortable ride
- Easy maintenance
- RWD driving experience
Weaknesses
- Dated styling
- Limited safety features
- Fuel consumption (V8)
- Age-related mechanical and rust issues
XT vs XR Falcon
- XT improvements: suspension tuning, updated styling, interior upgrades, V8 options
- XT advantages: smoother ride, better handling, mechanical reliability
Why the XT Falcon Still Matters
- Late-1960s Falcon bridging classic design to XW/XY muscle era
- Introduced optional V8 that paved the way for GT and GTHO Falcons
- Popular with families, fleets, and early enthusiasts
- Key model in understanding the evolution of Falcons into the 1970s
Conclusion
The XT Falcon is a historically significant Falcon, offering reliable mechanics, a smooth RWD ride that would define future performance Falcons. It remains a sought-after classic for enthusiasts and collectors.