1973 ford falcon xa gt rpo83 hardtop

Chicane Auctions is proud to offer one of the most revered Australian muscle cars ever built – the 1973 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO83 Hardtop.

This example retains its original matching numbers drivetrain, has been restored to factory specification and is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of its kind.

A previous GT Nationals award winner for Best Overall Restored, it stands as a critically acclaimed benchmark for quality, provenance, and collectability.

MODEL OVERVIEW:
The 1973 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO83 Hardtop is an ultra-rare and highly significant piece of Australian muscle car history, born from Ford’s motorsport ambitions during the early Group C era.

Developed as a homologation special, the RPO83 combined Phase IV spec performance upgrades, such as the Holley 780 CFM carburetor and HM (Head Mod) GT HO PHASE extractor manifolds on a standard GT platform, with no external badging to reveal its true capability.

Its legacy is underscored by the domination of Mount Panorama by Moffatt and Goss in 1973 - 1974 respectively, behind the wheel of the RPO83 based Falcons, as was built to specifically support.

With just 120 Hardtops produced, the RPO83 stands as one of the rarest, most potent and most collectible Homologation Falcon GTs ever built.

FACTORY SPECIFICATION:
VIN: JG66NG17202K
Model Code: 18218 – Falcon XA GT RPO83 Hardtop
Engine Code: T – 351C CID V8 4V
Trans Code: L - 4sp Manual Floor Shift
Paint Code: 7 - Walnut Glow
Trim Code: P - Parchment Vinyl
Compliance Date: 08/73

FACTORY OPTIONS:
03 - Seat Belts (Mandatory)

04 - Protection Pack

11 - Laminated Tintband Windscreen

16 - Black Vinyl Roof

55 - Bonnet Black

61 - Dual Mirrors

83 - Performance Pack

87 - Tinted Side and Rear Glass

90 - Delete Predelivery Wax

FACTORY PERFORMANCE: (RPO 83)
Power: 330 bhp (246 kW) at 5400 rpm 
Torque: 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) at 3800 rpm

DRIVELINE:
Beneath the bonnet lies the original matching-numbers 351ci Cleveland V8 4V engine, fully rebuilt by renowned GT specialist, late Neil Thompson of Grand Tourer.

The engine retains its correct RPO83-spec Holley 780CFM carburetor and features factory HM (Head Mod) GT HO Phase header-style extractors, originally developed by Ford and HM Headers for ATCC homologation.

The engine was rebuilt with a solid camshaft and roller rockers, providing both exceptional performance and long-term reliability.

The driveline and suspension were completely renewed as part of the comprehensive restoration completed in 2005.

The factory Top Loader 4-speed manual gearbox was stripped, inspected, and reassembled with new seals, while the 9-inch differential was rebuilt with a solid spacer, new seals, LSD clutch packs, and fresh bearings.

The entire undercarriage, suspension, and mechanical components remain in fantastic condition, having travelled just 9,000 careful miles since the restoration was completed.

EXTERIOR:
This GT is an absolute marvel in its factory-correct Walnut Glow Metallic paintwork, offset by its black vinyl roof and matching black-out bonnet.

Every external detail has been restored to brilliant accuracy, with great attention paid to correct fittings, trim and panel alignment.

The bare-metal restoration was completed in 2005, and the car still presents beautifully with a deep, quality finish. However, some minor paint preparation imperfections and blemishes are now visible upon closer inspection with a reserve price guide set to reflect this.

Remaining as a visual masterpiece that captures the essence of early '70s muscle, this all time Ford GT style icon will never be repeated.

INTERIOR:
Inside, the car features a fully restored and near flawless Parchment interior, highlighted by its crisp original instrumentation.

While much of the interior is factory original, reproduction trim materials matched exactly to original specifications were used during restoration process bringing it to this level.

The only upgrade being the fitment of AM/FM internals to the original radio.

The attention to detail mirrors the quality seen throughout the car—nothing has been overlooked.

Hard to fault.

HISTORY:
Delivered new through Bethel Ford in Horsham Victoria, this RPO83 has been owned by the Vendor since 1998.

This example is presented with a Ford Letter of Authenticity, a full ACCHS report, a comprehensive restoration receipt file from Grand Tourer Restorations and its original numbered Vic. Black & White plates.

Its nut-and-bolt, bare metal concourse rebuild was undertaken by the late Neil Thompson of Grand Tourer - an authority in Ford GT restorations nationwide.

The car has earned accolades and awards in the 2005 GT Nationals as Best Restored Overall along with many other awards.

This car is known within GT circles as one of the best examples of the rare RPO83 Hardtop in existence.

SUMMARY:
A matching numbers example with national provenance as a proven correct RPO83.

A full concourse restoration was completed in 2005 by one of the most trusted names in Falcon GT restoration and originality.

With its rarity, factory specification, presentation and provenance, it offers a unique opportunity to own a known piece of Australian motoring royalty.

OVER 100 PHOTOS, FULL VIDEOS & DETAILED INFORMATION - AVAILABLE SOON...

AUCTION DETAILS:
This XA GT will be sold with a Reserve Price Guide of $250,000 - $280,000

Inspections are available by Appointment at Chicane Auctions Showroom in Melbourne.

The Auction will be held Online, ensuring all collectors across Australia have the opportunity to bid and own.

AUCTION STARTS: 6th MAY 2025.

AUCTION CLOSES: MAY 15th from 8:30pm (AEST).

For more information, inspection bookings, or to register for the auction, visit www.chicaneauctions.com.au or contact Chicane Auctions directly on 03 9580 7369 or email - [email protected]

About Chicane Auctions:
Based in Melbourne Australia, Chicane Auctions specialise in Collector, Performance & Rare Cars.

With an experienced background, Chicane are passionate in exceptional collector cars.