1997 Ford Falcon EL review from Australia and New Zealand

The most potentially damaging problem was a leaking heater tap, which led to the radiator losing fluid. Replacement tap was $15. Replaced by myself.

Steering knuckles replaced at 155000kms. Steering improved dramatically after replacement by mechanic. ($100).

Small transmission housing weep. Apparently common and not dangerous, but still requires top up of transmission fluid every 6-7 months.

City fuel consumption is as heavy as to be expected from a 1.6 tonne car with 4 litres under the bonnet, however on the highway with a very full load I travelled from Sydney to Seymour (100km north of Melbourne) on one tank of fuel.

If you're looking for sportscar performance, try elsewhere. My previous ride, a 306 XSi Peugeot was a lot of fun in that respect. This is not to say that the Falcon is a slug. It's a lot of fun being a rear wheel drive car and there is a nice punch under the bonnet, but don't be trying anything too fancy in the wet or you might just end up on the footpath.

On the highway is where this car comes into it's own. You have the power to cruise at a very nice speed, and overtaking is never an effort.

I think if this car was a manual I would have a lot more fun in it, being in control of that 4 litre to the instant, without that auto lag.

The interior is what you would expect of a base model. Not too hard to dress up with some carpet mats etc. It's a blank canvas for all budding upholsterers. It's comfortable though.

The sound system is a real sleeper. I'm not talking about $6000 systems, but the standard 4x 6" Pioneer speakers really do sound good if you put a decent head unit in. If you want the whole world to listen then theres also a nice big boot to dump your hard earned cash into in the form of subs etc.

Potential for sports mods is VERY high. I'm considering installing a 2.5" Exhaust, Extractors, Hi-Flo Pod filter air intake and lowering slightly.

This is a great all-rounder. It has a LOT of room, is great for highway trips, drives comfortably in all conditions (as long as you take it easy in the wet, but that should go without saying for ANY car) and has cost me very little to service.