Ford’s Australian division is working on a facelift for its Falcon rear-wheel-drive sedan before production ceases in 2016, ending an almost 60-year run. However, production of the GT-badged performance Falcons is ending much sooner, with the last example due to roll off the line just prior to the arrival of the facelifted Falcon in the third quarter of the year.
MUST WATCH: McLaren 12C And Lamborghini Aventador Flame Battle: Video
Today, Ford Motor Company [NYSE:F] confirmed that it will launch a special edition model to mark the end of its GT-badged Falcons, which are currently produced by the FPV performance division and in the past have included some iconic models such as the GT-HO homologation specials.
The new special edition will be called the Falcon GT F, and is expected to feature a supercharged version of Ford’s 5.0-liter ‘Coyote’ V-8 tuned to deliver close to 470 horsepower. The current Falcon GT models already feature this engine, but with output tuned to 450 horsepower. A six-speed manual will be standard with a six-speed automatic offered as an option.
The Falcon GT F will also benefit from the sporty suspension of the recent Falcon GT R-Spec model, which featured stiffer springs, bushes and strut mounts than the regular Falcon GT models, as well as returned dampers and thicker anti-roll bars. Other features will include 19-inch wheels with 275/35 Dunlop Sports Maxx tires and Brembo brakes.
DON'T MISS: Teen Drives Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Into Texas Pool: Video
Ford promises the cars will also feature styling that traces some of its visual cues to past Falcon GTs; a new front bumper design is expected in addition to a ‘stealth’ stripe design package evocative of the blacked-out highlights from Ford muscle cars of the 1970s. Buyers will be able to choose from five exterior colors: Winter White, Kinetic (blue), Silhouette (black), Octane (orange) and Smoke (dark gray).
Full specifications for the Falcon GT F will be announced closer to launch later this year. Only 550 examples will be built, 500 for the Australian market and the remainder headed to New Zealand. Pricing will start at 77,990 Aussie dollars, which at current rates works out to be about $72,520.
_______________________________________
