THE STORY Introduced in September 1959, the Ford Falcon was a front-engine, rear-wheel drive compact car produced that was produced through to 1970 across three generations. A sales success for Ford initially, the Falcon outsold contemporary rivals from Chrysler and General Motors.
There were several body styles and trim levels to select from. It was available as a 2 and 4-door sedan, hardtop coupe, sport hardtop, convertible, Sprint hardtop coupe, Sprint Convertible, and station wagon.
The Sprint included the first V8 engine ever to appear in a Falcon. The sweet 260ci Challenger Ford engine pushed out 164 horsepower which was impressive for a car of its size at the time.
The engine was mated to either a 3-speed automatic transmission or an optional close ratio 4-speed manual. The car accelerated from 0-100kmph in just over 8 seconds.
The Sprint had stiffened front end suspension and rear leaf springs as well as larger front brakes which enhanced handling and reduced body roll – it was a popular choice for amateur racers. There was also an eye-level dash-mounted tachometer, bucket seats, long hood, short deck lid and distinctive badging.
These cars became the base for the 1964 ½ Mustang with the Mustang’s mechanicals being almost identical to those of the Falcon.
THE CAR Finished in glossy “Powder Blue” with matching blue vinyl interior, this impressive and very tidy Sprint was imported into Australia in March 2002.
This car has the rare optional 4-speed manual gearbox and power steering for improved handling.
This car has undergone a comprehensive restoration in Australia under its current ownership including paint, interior, clutch, distributor, heater core, fuel pump, radiator, steering shaft, power steering pump (a Saginaw steering box was also installed), speedo cable and ignition coil.
In addition the car’s exhaust manifolds were replaced as were the front springs, crush tubes and suspension work was undertaken.
The gearbox was also overhauled as was the tail shaft and carburettor. The car had new carpets installed in 2015 with Dynamat underlay and the trim and headlining were re-fitted. Australian compliant lap-sash seatbelts were also installed.
All receipts for work done are to hand and the car has a replacement owner’s manual.
New tyres were fitted to the spectacular cast alloy wheels in late 2020 and have done very little work since then.
This is a fantastic example of a timeless Ford classic.
