Ford Falcon (XL)
| Company type | Automobile model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Ford Falcon (XK) |
| Founded | August 1962 |
| Defunct | February 1964 |
| Successor | Ford Falcon (XM) |
Area served | Australia |
| Products | Mid-size cars, station wagons, utility vehicles, panel vans |
The Ford Falcon (XL) represents a mid-size car manufactured by Ford Australia between 1962 and 1964. It served as the second version within the initial generation of the Falcon series.
Overview
Launched in August 1962, the Falcon XL succeeded the Falcon XK, introducing a redesigned convex grille, park/turn signals mounted on the bumper, refreshed taillight designs, and a distinct squared-off sedan roofline promoted as the “Thunderbird roofline”. Key mechanical enhancements encompassed a newly developed three-speed manual transmission, improved clutch, starter motor, air cleaner, suspension components, and carburettor.
The engine lineup remained consistent with that of the XK model, offering a Falcon Six inline-six engine producing , alongside an optional variant rated at . The starting price for the base Falcon was £1,070 ($2,140 AUD).
Model range
The XL series included four-door sedans and five-door station wagons. Notably introduced with this iteration were the upscale Futura Sedan and Squire Wagon trims, with the latter featuring imitation woodgrain panels on the sides and rear. Commercial options consisted of two-door coupe utility and two-door panel van configurations, the latter sold under the name Falcon Sedan Delivery.
The available models were:
- Falcon Sedan
- Falcon Deluxe Sedan
- Falcon Futura Sedan
- Falcon Station Wagon
- Falcon Deluxe Wagon
- Falcon Squire Wagon
- Falcon Utility
- Falcon Deluxe Utility
- Falcon Sedan Delivery
Production
Production of the Falcon XL concluded in February 1964 when it was replaced by the Ford Falcon (XM), with an overall output tallying 75,765 vehicles.
Motorsport
A Falcon XL piloted by Bob Jane and Harry Firth finished "first across the line" during the 1962 Armstrong 500, with Falcon XL models occupying the top four spots in Class B.