Ford LTD (Australia)
| Company type | Subsidiary product line |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Ford Fairlane (US) |
| Founded | 1959 |
| Headquarters | Broadmeadows, Victoria and Eagle Farm, Queensland , Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Products | Full-size luxury cars (Ford Fairlane, Ford LTD) |
| Parent | Ford Australia |
The Ford Fairlane and LTD represent full-size luxury vehicles manufactured by Ford Australia from 1959, with the LTD model introduced in 1973, continuing production until 2007.
Between 1959 and 1964, the Fairlane was essentially a locally produced version of the American Ford Fairlane, its name derived from Henry Ford's estate, Fair Lane. It held the position of Ford Australia's premier model until it was succeeded by an Australian-assembled full-size American Ford Galaxie. In 1967, Ford Australia brought back the Fairlane as a locally engineered luxury long-wheelbase variant based on its primary Falcon/Fairmont range, positioned between the Falcon and Galaxie models. The Galaxie later transformed into the LTD, which in 1973 was replaced in Australia by a domestically developed Fairlane-derived vehicle also named Ford LTD. Unlike its North American counterpart, where LTD was not regarded as a luxury designation, in Australia "LTD" initially stood for "Lincoln Type Design," and was subsequently promoted as "Limited."
The Fairlane and LTD models competed against vehicles such as the Holden Brougham (1968–1971), the Statesman (1971–1984), and eventually the Holden Statesman and Caprice (1990–2007).
Manufacturing began at the Broadmeadows Assembly Plant and at Eagle Farm, Queensland. By March/April 1978, coinciding with the launch of the XD Falcon, production of Falcons was consolidated at Campbellfield, while assembly of the Fairlane/LTD shifted to Eagle Farm. Around the time of the EA Falcon release in 1988, Eagle Farm ended car production to focus on heavy truck manufacturing until its closure in 1998.
Full-size Fairlane (1959–1962)
In September 1959, Ford Australia introduced three locally assembled variants: the Fairlane 500, the entry-level Custom 300, and the Ranch Wagon. These models were sourced from Ford of Canada but closely mirrored their 1959 US Ford equivalents. Establishing local tooling took nearly two years and involved an investment of approximately £1.5 million Australian.
Compared to the Ford Customline models they replaced, these sedans were extended by 9½ inches in length and lowered by 5 inches in height, all powered by a 204 bhp (152 kW) 332 cubic inch V8. The Custom 300 and Ranch Wagon came equipped with a three-speed manual gearbox, whereas the Fairlane 500 featured a fully automatic transmission. The wheelbase measured 118 inches.
In 1960, updates included adopting grille and trim designs from the 1959 Canadian Meteor, along with an increase in engine power to 220 bhp (164 kW).
FB (1962)
May 1962 saw Ford Australia unveil the FB model, a smaller version based on the 1962 US Fairlane 500 sedan. This iteration was fitted with a Windsor V8 replacing the earlier 332 engine. Although categorized as an intermediate-sized car in the United States, it was marketed within Australia as a "compact" Fairlane. Assembled at Ford Australia's Homebush facility in Sydney, it was priced £200 lower than its predecessor at £2,000, with total production reaching 1,632 units.
FC (1963)
In November 1962, Ford Australia commenced assembly of the 1963 US Fairlane 500 sedan, designated as the FC model. This version showcased revised bonnet, front fenders, grille, headlights, and taillights, while featuring the "Ford-O-Matic" automatic transmission as standard equipment. An optional Windsor V8 engine was also available. The total number of units produced domestically reached 1,771.
FD (1964)
Starting in December 1963, Ford Australia assembled the 1964 US Fairlane 500 sedan under the FD model name, officially released in April 1964. The design eliminated tail fins and introduced a new grille with seven vertical bars. Powertrain choices included a Windsor V8 paired with either the Ford-O-Matic or Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmissions. Production ceased in 1965 to accommodate the introduction of the larger Ford Galaxie, with local output totaling 1,344 vehicles.
ZA (1967–1968)
The ZA Fairlane, launched in March 1967, marked a model designed and manufactured in Australia. Its front styling bore similarity to that year’s American Ford Falcon sedan but incorporated body elements from the 1966–67 US Fairlane. Available as both the Fairlane and Fairlane 500 variants, it was based on the Australian XR Falcon, featuring an extended wheelbase of . The design integrated rear quarter panels and boot lid from the US Fairlane, replacing the Falcon’s circular taillights with square units inspired by the 1966 US model.
A six-cylinder engine was standard across the range, with an optional V8 available; the Fairlane 500 came equipped with the V8 as standard. Manual and automatic transmissions were offered for six-cylinder versions, while V8 models were limited to automatic gearboxes. Production volume for the ZA reached 8,814 units.
ZB (1968–1969)
The ZB update introduced in March 1968 increased engine capacities: the 200 cubic inch six-cylinder grew to , and the 289 V8 expanded to . The Fairlane 500 remained positioned as the flagship variant equipped with the larger engine. The rear guard badges transitioned from uppercase lettering to script style. A significant exterior modification included redesigned taillights influenced by the 1967 US Fairlane, harmonizing with Falcon styling cues seen on models such as the XT. The base trim was rebranded as Fairlane Custom.
| Year | Engines | HP | Transmission | Wheelbase | length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 | 3.6L six-cylinder;302CID V-8 | 210(V8) | Cruise-O-Matic | 116" | 196.1" |
ZC (1969–1970)
The ZC series debuted in July 1969 featuring a refreshed front end with vertically stacked headlights reminiscent of the 1966–67 US Fairlane models. Taillights maintained a similar design to those on the ZB but incorporated wrap-around styling and amber lenses. Offered in Fairlane Custom and Fairlane 500 trims, the Custom came standard with a 221 cu in (3.6L) straight-six engine, whereas the Fairlane 500 was equipped as standard with a 302 cu in (4.9L) V8; this larger V8 was also optional on the Custom variant. Both trims had an optional upgrade to a 351 cu in (5.8L) V8 matching specifications of the XW GT model. Notably, air conditioning became available as an option for the first time in this generation. Total production for ZC Fairlanes reached 12,513 units.
ZD (1970–1972)
Introduced in November 1970 for the 1971 model year, the ZD series retained a base six-cylinder engine alongside options for both 302 and 351 V8 engines—the latter reserved exclusively for the Fairlane 500 trim. Exterior enhancements included redesigned taillights inspired by those on the XY Falcon, a new plastic grille framed by metal reminiscent of the 1966 Galaxie 500, and updated boot garnish detailing. Interior updates featured revised door trim panels and replaced the former silver speedometer background with a black backing.
Continuing its practice of extending Falcon platforms (with ZA through ZD corresponding to XR through XY Falcons), this series increased rear passenger legroom by lengthening the body behind the rear doors.
ZF (1972–1973)
The ZF series, designed in Australia, was introduced in April 1972, showcasing a more refined exterior design, though it drew some criticism for its resemblance to the four-headlamp XA Falcon. The range continued to offer Custom and 500 trim levels along with the existing engine choices. In August 1973, the premium LTD model was added, distinguished by concealed headlamps and vinyl roof options. Importantly, the ZF marked the final Fairlane to provide a manual gearbox; later versions transitioned exclusively to automatic transmissions.
Although the Falcon was phased out in South Africa and replaced by the European Ford Granada, the ZF Fairlane persisted there under the Fairlane 500 name. This version featured seating for six, a column-mounted shifter, and was powered by a Cleveland 351 V8 engine.
ZG / P5 (1973–1976)
In November 1973, the ZG iteration of the Fairlane underwent primarily cosmetic revisions, including a grille with four horizontal bars and updated taillight lenses. The 1975 anniversary edition came standard with a 302 engine, while the remainder of the lineup largely mirrored the 1974 models. The Fairlane-based P5 series Ford LTD debuted in August 1973 shortly before the ZG Fairlane, offered solely as a four-door sedan with an extended wheelbase compared to the Fairlane. Simultaneously, Ford introduced the luxury two-door Landau (P5), derived from the Falcon Hardtop but featuring a shorter wheelbase. Both models incorporated hidden vacuum-operated headlamps reminiscent of earlier American Ford Thunderbird designs. Standard features on LTD and Landau included factory-installed air conditioning, automatic transmission, power windows, and a 351ci (5.8L) V8 engine.
To celebrate Ford’s 50th anniversary in Australia in July 1975, limited-edition Town Cars were produced—250 units each for LTD and Fairlane variants. Fairlanes adopted components typically found on LTDs such as 15-inch wheels, leather upholstery, and power windows; most were equipped with 302 engines, though some customers specially ordered the 351 V8. The LTD Town Car exclusively came with the larger 351 engine.
Since the P5 was introduced during the ZF production period, it retained numerous ZF elements; for example, it continued using the older style turn signal stalk rather than switching to the multifunction column stalk introduced with the ZG Fairlane. Some late-production P5 vehicles also incorporated minor parts from the subsequent ZH model due to overlapping manufacturing timelines.
ZH / P6 (1976–1979)
The May 1976 launch of the ZH series sought to differentiate the Fairlane from its Falcon counterpart by preserving the central section of the XC Falcon but extending both front and rear sections to enhance its luxury presence. Its design drew inspiration from the 1968 Mercury Marquis. The high-end LTD featured a grille influenced by Rolls-Royce aesthetics similar to that of the Lincoln Continental Mark V. The previous Custom trim was discontinued; instead, the base model was renamed as the 500, while a new top-tier Fairlane Marquis was introduced to compete with rivals such as the Statesman Caprice. Engine capacities were now expressed in metric terms: a base 4.9 L unit and an optional 5.8 L variant. Beginning in January 1979, ZH Marquises adopted Borg-Warner differentials replacing Ford’s traditional nine-inch units.
The P6 Series LTD appeared in September 1976 with an even more distinctive front grille featuring four round headlamps inspired by Rolls-Royce luxury cues. At this time, production of the Landau ceased. In 1977, Ford released a special "Silver Monarch" LTD edition celebrating Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee; this model was uniquely available in Stardust Silver paint paired with a special vinyl roof and Cranberry red velour interior. Following this, a limited-edition LTD Town Car was launched in 1978.
ZJ / FC (1979–1982)
In May 1979, Ford released the Fairlane ZJ Series, characterized by its boxy design and a six-window body style that set it apart from the XD Falcon. The model featured classic quad headlights and vertically striped taillights, emphasizing its upscale nature. Trim options were streamlined into a single Fairlane variant, available with either a or V8 engine. Later in October, in response to the fuel shortage, Ford introduced a Fairlane model equipped with a Falcon-sourced inline-six engine.
The LTD variant, launched as the FC Series in October 1979, shared the same wheelbase and body panels as the Fairlane. By mid-1980, the Falcon’s 4.1-litre six-cylinder engine with an alloy head became an optional power unit for the LTD, marking its debut six-cylinder offering.
ZK / FD (1982–1984)
The ZK series debuted in March 1982 and saw the discontinuation of the 5.8 L V8 engine, reflecting Ford’s shift away from V8s in the domestic market. Exterior alterations were subtle, limited to minor changes in grille and taillight design. By March 1983, the 4.9 L V8 was also phased out and replaced by a fuel-injected six-cylinder engine that matched the V8’s acceleration performance.
A notable technical improvement was the adoption of a coil-sprung rear axle with a Watts linkage, considered one of the most sophisticated live rear-axle systems of its era.
The LTD FC series was updated to the FD series in March 1982, with V8 engines removed by 1983.
ZL / FE (1984–1988)
Introduced in October 1984, the ZL series continued to offer two six-cylinder engines; however, the carburetted variant was discontinued by late 1986. While retaining existing body panels, the ZL incorporated integrated headlights with clear turn indicators, full wrap-around bumpers, and taillights inspired by the XF Falcon. Inside, it featured a fully digital instrument cluster with push-button controls for enhanced driver interaction. The FE series LTD also launched alongside this update in October 1984.
NA / DA (1988–1991)
In June 1988, Ford unveiled a significant redesign of the Fairlane, moving away from angular styling towards more fluid contours based on the EA26-platform EA Falcon. This long-wheelbase Falcon variant preserved the six-window design. The previous 4.1 L six-cylinder engine was extensively reworked into a smaller 3.9 L unit to improve both fuel efficiency and power output. Although officially designated as EA26 models, enthusiasts commonly refer to them as NA series.
The corresponding LTD models were introduced as the DA series in June 1988. Both N-series Fairlanes and D-series LTDs utilized the Falcon/Fairmont wagon platform, resulting in notably narrow rear wagon doors despite generous rear seating space and legroom. These large sedans were often converted into stretch limousines by Australian coachbuilders, highlighting their suitability for limousine applications.
A major update arrived in November 1989 for the 1990 model year with the NA II and DA II iterations featuring a four-speed automatic transmission replacing the earlier three-speed unit.
Although no official NB series Fairlane was produced, an early 1989 prototype equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission carried an "NB" compliance plate and was registered accordingly. Ford also released parts catalogs mentioning an "NB Sportsman Fairlane," and some aftermarket suppliers reference "NB" variants, contributing to ongoing confusion about this designation. The Department of Transport and Regional Services has no record of authorizing an "NB Fairlane" compliance plate for production vehicles, which may explain why Ford has not formally recognized this label.
NC / DC (1991–1995)
In August 1991, Ford brought back the V8 engine to the NC Fairlane and DC-series LTD models, responding to consumer demand after its absence during the 1980s. This 5.0 L V8 was a Canadian-built Windsor engine originally designed for North American light trucks and four-wheel drives, adapted with a reversed intake manifold and repositioned serpentine belt-driven accessories to suit right-hand drive configurations. These modifications meant it was incompatible with North American Ford Racing/SVO performance components. The inline-six engine option continued to be offered. Additionally, the NC series introduced the upscale Fairlane Ghia, which also provided the V8 as an option.
The 1992 NC II and DC II updates rebranded the 3.9 L engine as a "4.0-litre" without making changes to trim levels. To attract a younger demographic, Ford briefly released the Fairlane Sportsman Ghia in 1993, equipped with a "Tickford"-enhanced 4.0 L six-cylinder engine derived from the Falcon XR6. The NC III update arrived in August 1993, coinciding with the ED Falcon series launch, featuring R134a refrigerant for air conditioning and discontinuing the base Fairlane model, leaving only the Fairlane Ghia variant available.
Starting in March 1994, the NC series received several upgrades including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, body-matched bumpers and side protection strips, redesigned alloy wheels, and a new bonnet ornament.
Although plans existed in the late 1980s to create a Fairlane wagon by combining the Falcon wagon body with Fairlane front styling, this concept never reached production. Similarly, an EB Falcon utility prototype featuring Fairlane front-end design was developed in the early 1990s but did not proceed to manufacturing.
NF / DF (1995–1996)
In March 1995, Ford introduced major redesigns for both front and rear sections of the Fairlane and LTD (EA77), aligning these models with the EF Falcon platform. The NF Fairlanes and DF LTDs showcased longer and more rounded body shapes that concealed their 1980s origins, accompanied by more elaborate exterior trim compared to previous versions. The Fairlane Sportsman made a return in 1996, powered by the 4.0 L six-cylinder engine.
NL / DL (1996–1999)
The updated NL Fairlanes and DL LTDs were launched in September 1996, with the introduction of a premium Fairlane Concorde trim in 1997 offering both 4.0 and 5.0 L engine choices. The Sportsman model was discontinued at this time.
To cater to customers seeking luxury combined with enhanced performance, five dealer-modified NL Fairlanes from Sydney and Melbourne incorporated components from the 5.0-litre Mustang Cobra alongside Australian SVO parts, reflecting Tickford’s limited edition influence. The design adopted smooth body contours reminiscent of the US Ford Taurus, featuring front-end styling similar to that of the Lincoln Town Car.
In 1998, Ford expanded the Fairlane lineup to include Ghia, basic Concorde (six-cylinder), Concorde Ghia (V8), and a Tickford-enhanced version equipped with the larger engine. The NL and DL series marked the final models fitted with automatic self-leveling rear suspension.
The New Zealand Government selected the NL Fairlane Ghia as official Crown Limousines, predominantly finished in Amaretto paint with silver "Concorde" 16-inch wheels, six-disc CD changers, electrically adjustable driver seats, and flag mounts. These vehicles utilized factory-fitted 4.0 L six-cylinder engines producing 165 kW. Some LTD Crown Cars were equipped with V8 engines and came in colors such as Dynamic White, Argon Silver, Mocha Foam, and Amaretto.
Between 1997 and 1998, government Crown cars bore special license plates ranging from CR404 to CR437; most were retired after approximately three years of service. The Fairlane and LTD remained part of New Zealand government fleets from the 1970s until replaced by BMW 7-Series vehicles during the 2010s. The government still employs CR registration plates on current Crown Cars.
Notably, Harry Hutton (son of Mark Hutton) is recognized for driving a 1999 Ford Fairlane GHIA.
AU (1999–2003)
In February 1999, Ford introduced the AU series Fairlane, showcasing the "New Edge" design language. The EA169 platform did not meet expectations, resulting in Holden overtaking Ford in sales of full-size vehicles. The AU LTD model was subsequently launched in May.
These AU Fairlane and LTD variants marked the first long-wheelbase sedans to carry the same model designation as the AU Falcon, with styling cues inspired by the Lincoln Town Car, particularly evident near the C-pillar. The lineup was simplified to just two models: the Fairlane Ghia and the LTD. Additionally, a limited-edition Fairlane Millennium Ghia was released in January 2000. The top-tier LTD found export markets in Fiji and New Zealand, with a small number also shipped to the UK for use as hearses and limousines.
In 1999, Ford introduced the performance-oriented FTE TL50 model; however, it did not achieve strong market acceptance. Consequently, an updated AU II range appeared in July 2000 featuring improved specifications. Special editions such as the 75th Anniversary Ghia (October 2001) and a revived Sportsman Ghia (March 2001) extended availability through 2002. The Sportsman Ghia offered premium leather upholstery akin to the LTD but without branding insignias.
BA (2003–2005)
Ford launched the BA series in July 2003 to more effectively challenge Holden’s market position. The BA Fairlane and LTD adopted design elements closer to the BA Falcon, including shared taillight assemblies. The previous 5.0-litre engine was replaced by a larger 5.4-litre three-valve Modular V8, locally known as the Barra 220. From this generation onward, six-cylinder engines were no longer offered in the LTD.
Aiming to attract a younger demographic, Ford introduced the Fairlane G220 to succeed the Sportsman model. It featured an engine producing 220 kW of power and 420 Nm of torque, paired with a sequential automatic transmission. Distinctive features included 17-inch Elegance alloy wheels, ebony-colored headlight bezels, and redline leather seats with charcoal perforated inserts.
The Fairlane Ghia served as the six-cylinder base trim but came with enhanced standard equipment such as an ICC screen, six-disc CD changer, premium audio system, seven-way adjustable leather seats, and woodgrain interior accents. From late 2003 onwards, cornering lights were added.
The LTD stood out with its 5.4-litre V8 engine, Webasto Hollandia 700 sunroof, satellite navigation system, electrochromic auto-dimming rearview mirror, a unique vertical bar grille design, and exclusive badging and interior details including ten-way adjustable front seats and bolstered rear seating.
Production numbers for the BA Series I LTD ranged between 332 and 347 units.
Following the October 2004 debut of the BA II Falcon, refreshed versions of the Fairlane Ghia, G220, and LTD were released in March 2005 featuring enhanced chrome detailing and updated alloy wheel designs. Interior revisions included China Beige leather replacing previous black trim, eight-way power driver's seats with memory function for Ghia and G220 trims, and leather-wrapped steering wheels varying by model.
Mechanical updates were minimal; however, Sports Control Blade rear suspension tuning was introduced for base Ghia and LTD variants. The REX DVD entertainment system became standard on the LTD, either replacing or supplementing the sunroof option.
Approximately 121 units of the BA II LTD were produced.
Interior enhancements carried forward into the BF series included brushed silver instrument dials, piano black fascia surrounds replacing earlier silver accents on controls, plus additional chrome detailing on door handles and air vents. Original woodgrain trim remained until BF's release.
BF (2005–2007)
The BF series Fairlane and LTD were introduced in October 2005, with the Fairlane G220 being rebranded as the Fairlane G8. Although the exterior closely resembled the BA Mark II, the BF incorporated enhancements in steering, suspension, sound insulation, and chassis design, which contributed to better fuel efficiency. Across the lineup, taillight lenses received subtle redesigns, and the Ghia model was upgraded to come standard with 17-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the BF Fairlane models replaced previous woodgrain accents with "satin chrome" trim. Both the BF Ghia and LTD featured leather upholstery available in black or China beige, with the driver's seat offering eight-way power adjustments and the passenger seat six-way adjustments.
The G8's V8 powertrain was improved with an upgraded exhaust system and the addition of a knock sensor, producing at 5,350 rpm and torque at 3,500 rpm. It was paired with a six-speed ZF sports automatic transmission and a 2.53:1 final drive ratio without limited slip. Notable details included 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension with lower-profile 225/50 tires, 'Redline' leather seats accented by charcoal perforated inserts, a perforated leather steering wheel and gearshift lever featuring satin/brushed aluminum-style highlights, along with blacked-out headlight surrounds.
The LTD variant, also powered by a V8 engine, added 17-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels, satellite navigation system, ten-way power-adjustable front seats with driver memory function, enhanced rear seats with bolstering, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, front fog lamps, power sunroof, electrochromic rearview mirror, Stone Maple woodgrain trim combined with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, embroidered floor mats, woodgrain gear selector surround, and Rabbit Rose woodgrain detailing.
In May 2007, Ford declared that production of the Fairlane and LTD would cease due to shrinking demand within the large luxury car market. The last Fairlane was assembled on 13 December 2007. Overall, Ford produced 153 units of the BF LTD model.
Australian sales figures
| Variant | 1990 | 1991 | 1992 | 1993 | 1994 | 1995 | 1996 | 1997 | 1998 | 1999 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairlane | 3,762 | 3,908 | 4,206 | 3,219 | 5,144 | 4,145 | 4,100 | 3,097 | 4,487 | |
| LTD | 459 | 533 | 544 | 376 | 816 | 568 | 419 | 330 | 320 | |
| Variant | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 |
| Fairlane | 2,779 | 2,306 | 2,001 | 2,389 | 2,016 | 1,829 | 1,105 | 1,703 | 114 | 13 |
| LTD | 297 | 149 | 100 | 146 | 174 | 151 | 53 | 77 | 2 |