About the Ford Falcon
D S Rowan purchased this Ford Falcon used for $8,000 (including all on-road costs) in 2012. D S Rowan would buy this car again because: “Can’t beat that Falcon Wagon versatility for work and play. It’s been the all Aussie driveway favourite for 50+ years before the SUV domination. Reliability and ease of service and repair makes it a perfect daily driver. 110 litre LPG tank yields decent range between servo visits and still quite cost effective. “
How reliable has your car been? Tell us about any issues.
It hasn’t been without the typical B-Series Falcon dramas. We’re all aware of the dreaded ‘milkshake’. So the RTOC has been replaced and luckily the transmission flushed and saved.
Apart from that a few wheel bearings, ball joints and an LPG convertor. Cannot complain too much over 220k of ownership (360,000km on the current odometer).
What do you think of the ownership experience with your car?
At first it was purely an economical decision. LPG was still cheap 10 years ago.
Now with prices rising and LPG availability becoming more scarce it’s a battle to the end. I plan to keep representing the Falcon brotherhood in a world of diesel cab-chassis domination.
Are you happy with the price and features of your car?
I must admit Ford really did the bare minimum on the wagon platform toward the end. There was Fairmont after the AU.
It’s very basic with only cruise control, auto headlamps and front power windows for some luxury. Asides from that it’s basically a 79 Series LandCruiser.
What do you think of the performance and economy of your car?
Performance is acceptable. It’ll tow most things comfortably as long as the ball weight is considered. Economy on an open road is great with many trips between Geelong and Sydney being done over the years. 10.0L/100km is easily achievable on the open highway.
About town and towing the economy suffers but that cost has been offset all these years for cheap pump prices.
What do you think of the technology in your car?
Look it’s basic. I’ve done some basic upgrades over the years to a larger XR series colour screen, and eBay-sourced AUX Bluetooth integration since streaming services have taken over CDs.
Also an aftermarket rear camera which was never an option for the low series Falcons. Vision is good so I’ve never felt the lack of parking sensors an issue.
What do you think of the ride comfort and handling of your car?
In standard guise they were a very compliant ride. Handled surprisingly well despite being raked high at the rear.
Presumably to handle the LPG tanks and expected wagon payload also rated to 2300kg towing with the correct hitch. Steering and braking were always solid Falcon traits and it performs well in all conditions.
Do you have any additional comments about your car?
It’s at that stage now Falcon owners recognise each other on the road amongst all the SUVs, micro cars, and small runabouts. It’s our little tribute to the Aussie car industry to keep these on the road as long as we can for cheapish hassle-free motoring.