1997 Ford Falcon gli 4.0litre from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

A cheap and reliable ex-taxi

Faults:

The coil went on me at around 610000kms.

It has a rough idle.

Replaced ball joints, shockers, drivers window winder a couple of times.

Interior is OK, but shows signs of ware due to being a taxi.

Wheel alignments and brake pad changes.

General Comments:

A great reliable ex-taxi that drives very well.

Very cheap to run on gas.

Loves the open roads and freeways.

Acceleration is great.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th March, 2005

1997 Ford Falcon EL FUTURA 4.0 In-line six from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

A great value friendly giant

Faults:

Nothing was really wrong, just a bit of wheel alignment, but that's expected.

General Comments:

It was very powerful, fun to drive. Very safe as well.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th May, 2003

1997 Ford Falcon XR6 4.0 from South Africa

Summary:

I would love a new one, but the price here is way too high

Faults:

The clutch failed at 120,000km due to a faulty release bearing.

A baffle from the filler spout fell into the fuel tank at about 150,000km which stopped the gauge working. The agents told me I needed a new, expensive, instrument cluster, so I eventually sorted the problem myself.

The original radiator hoses have all burst due to severe cracking on the inside, but the replacements have lasted to date.

The front seat has sagged slightly now which is surprising because I'm not very heavy, 65kg.

General Comments:

A very good and comfortable long distance car, but in town first gear is a bit high to do fast pull-offs from traffic lights.

Not as blindingly fast as I was given to think it would be, but very little catches me up hills due to the huge torque.

Fuel consumption is excellent: average about 7.7 km/litre in town and about 9.8 km/litre on long trips, several times I've got over 10.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th February, 2002

28th Jul 2009, 09:43

Bluey-Sydney Aust. I am an owner of 2 ELXR6 Tickford Fords, & if you know your Fords these are 1 of the best models made. Auto is the way to go, they say 160k replace. I have 220k&205k, both cars are still very strong. As for performance, like all XR6 INCL, BA MKII, you have to get them over 3,000RPM if you want it to go. Try driving in 3rd gear, economy off, you will be surprised. (I also have a BA MKII, but still drive the EL's.

26th Nov 2010, 21:40

Unfortunately, in South Africa we only got the XR6 in manual. I wanna turbo a Fairmont version for powerful luxury.