Ford Falcon (EL)

Ford Falcon (EL)
Company type	Automobile model
Industry	Automotive
Predecessor	Ford Falcon (EF)
Founded	1996
Defunct	1998
Successor	Ford Falcon (AU)
Headquarters	Australia, Australia
Products	Full-size car

The Ford Falcon (EL) is a full-size car manufactured by Ford Australia between 1996 and 1998. Serving as the last version of the fifth generation "E-series" Falcon lineup, which commenced with the EA in 1988, it also included the upscale Ford Fairmont (EL) variant.

This EL series represented the final chapter of the fifth-generation platform prior to the introduction of the Ford AU Falcon. It maintained a strong foothold within Australian police and taxi sectors, securing its status as one of the most iconic Falcons ever produced.

Development

The EL was essentially an updated version of its predecessor, the EF Falcon, which had been in production since 1994. The "E-series" platform originated with the EA model in 1988. Ford allocated million towards the EL’s development, focusing on enhancements that prolonged the lifespan of the "E-series" body while preparations for the AU Falcon were underway. Addressing previous handling and steering shortcomings found in the EF, the EL delivered considerably improved responsiveness by refining suspension geometry. It is noteworthy that the forthcoming AU model would be pioneering in featuring an independent rear suspension setup.

At its debut, the EL stood out as the sole Australian-manufactured vehicle equipped with a standard driver’s airbag, while a passenger airbag remained an optional feature.

Facelift and upgrades

In comparison to the EF, the EL reintroduced a front grille on GLi and Futura trims; this grille adopted an elliptical form consistent with Ford’s then-current design trends. This modification gave the vehicle’s front end a softer, more rounded aesthetic, moving away from the sharper aero styling previously seen. Base sedan models were fitted with amber rear indicators, whereas premium and station wagon versions utilized white lenses. Performance-oriented models like the XR6 and XR8 received updated quad headlight assemblies.

Inside, improvements included redesigned seats and headrests, refreshed color palettes, and new control switches. Station wagon variants offered optional third-row seating, cargo barriers, and factory-installed mobile phone wiring harnesses. Every model incorporated Smart Tint window film that provided SPF15-level UV protection. Additional enhancements such as thicker glass and increased dashboard insulation contributed to a quieter cabin environment.

Engine

The EL brought only slight modifications to its base straight-six engine compared to the EF’s earlier revision. The coil-pack ignition system used in the EF was replaced by a more dependable distributor-style ignition unit derived from the ED Falcon. Additionally, a single wider air induction pipe took the place of the previous divided design. Power output remained steady at 157 kilowatts (211 hp) and torque at 357 newton metres (263 ft·lbf). In October 1997, the XR8 sports variant saw its V8 engine upgraded from 170 kilowatts (228 hp) to 185 kilowatts (248 hp), with torque increasing marginally from 398 newton metres (294 ft·lbf) to 402 newton metres (296 ft·lbf).

Braking and Handling Improvements

With the EL, Ford enhanced both braking performance and handling dynamics. The Fairmont Ghia model introduced speed-sensitive power steering, which eased parking maneuvers while maintaining control at high speeds. Buyers could choose standard anti-lock braking systems on most models, with the GLi offering ABS as an option, utilizing Bosch’s advanced 5.3 control module. A key focus was resolving the EF Falcon’s handling shortcomings through upgraded suspension components and steering refinements.

Engineers at Tickford addressed the EF’s tendency for roll oversteer by lowering the rear suspension Watt's linkage pivot point by 20 millimetres. This adjustment eliminated the unpredictable cornering behavior that had only been partially mitigated in the EFII update. The EL became the first base model Falcon to feature rear suspension geometry that complemented the rack and pinion steering system introduced with the EA Falcon eight years prior. This allowed Ford to soften spring stiffness both front and rear, resulting in a smoother ride without compromising vehicle stability.

Model Lineup

The EL Falcon was available in ten distinct versions. Six-cylinder variants came standard with a five-speed manual gearbox, while a four-speed automatic transmission was offered as an alternative. In contrast, all V8-powered models were equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission except for the XR8, which retained a five-speed manual option.

Entry-Level Models

The GLi remained the base Falcon model, favored by fleet operators. It continued to feature Ford’s reliable straight-six engine, with an optional upgrade to the Windsor V8. The Futura added several enhancements such as ABS brakes, front power windows, cruise control, rear headrests, and an improved audio system. Additionally, it replaced black plastic exterior parts with body-coloured panels and offered an optional dual fuel tank capable of running on both autogas and petrol.

Special Editions

To rival the September 1997 release of the Holden VT Commodore, Ford launched the Sapphire limited edition based on either the GLi or Futura trims. These Sapphire models featured alloy wheels and metallic paint finishes as standard. Other limited editions created in response to the VT Commodore included the Classic and Falcon S variants, also built upon GLi or Futura bases. The Falcon S incorporated a six-stack CD player, air conditioning, and alloy wheels previously seen on XR6 and XR8 models. In March 1998, just six months before introducing the AU Falcon, Ford released the Sapphire II edition.

Performance Models

The "XR series" performance Falcons were distinguished primarily by their engines: the XR6 housed a six-cylinder unit, while the XR8 was equipped with a V8 that received an upgrade to 185 kW in October 1997. Exclusive features across the XR lineup included enhanced transmissions, upgraded exhaust systems, distinctive quad headlamps, limited slip differentials, specially tuned suspensions, and aerodynamic body kits that improved both style and function. The initial 824 XR8 units had a 170 kW engine paired with a 3.23:1 differential ratio and 15-inch alloy wheels; later production of 784 cars featured a more powerful 185 kW engine, a shorter 3.45:1 diff ratio, larger 16-inch alloys, big bore exhaust headers, and an updated Explorer inlet manifold.

GT Model

The EL GT was powered by Tickford Vehicle Engineering’s Ford SVO GT40 5.0-litre V8 producing 200 kW (268 hp). This output was achieved through specialized cylinder heads, a high compression ratio, enlarged valves, heavy-duty valve springs, roller cam followers, fuel injection with a large throttle body, and exhaust extractors. Manual transmission versions featured reinforced clutches and strengthened gears for durability. Handling improvements included larger anti-roll bars, urethane bushings, firmer springs, and retuned shock absorbers. The GT used a live axle differential with a 3.45 ratio and could reach approximately .

Contrary to common belief, the 30th anniversary EL GT was based on the Fairmont Ghia platform rather than any XR model. Production was limited to just 250 units for Australia—135 automatics and 115 manuals—with an additional 15 built for New Zealand (two of which were exported to South Africa).

Luxury Variants

Ford offered two upscale trims: the Fairmont and Fairmont Ghia. The Fairmont shared its six-cylinder engine with the Futura and GLi but added features such as automatic climate control, trip computer, power rear windows, oil pressure and battery gauges, illuminated footwells, electric antennae, full velour upholstery, chrome grille and side mouldings, larger bonnet bulge, unique headlamps, and 15-inch twelve-spoke alloy wheels.

The Fairmont Ghia blended luxury appointments with performance by incorporating the XR6 six-cylinder engine; while V8 options remained available but produced slightly less power due to quieter exhaust systems. It included a limited slip differential for enhanced handling alongside variable ratio power steering improvements. Additional upgrades encompassed a nine-speaker stereo system, passenger airbag, thicker side glass for noise reduction, wood-grain interior trim, chrome door handles and accents, leather-wrapped steering wheel and handbrake lever, plus leather seating surfaces. The Ghia's front grille featured a center bar painted to match exterior colors and sat on distinctive 15-inch eight-spoke alloy wheels differentiating it from the standard Fairmont.

Motorsport

The 1998 Bathurst 1000 classic was won by Stone Brothers Racing with an EL Falcon piloted by Jason Bright and Steven Richards. This particular 1998 EL Falcon stands out as the sole Falcon to achieve victory at Bathurst 1000 during the period from 1995 to 2005.

In the 1997 Australian Touring Car Championship, Glenn Seton Racing secured the championship title with Glenn Seton behind the wheel of an EL Falcon.