The Ford Falcon (XK) is a mid-sized car that was produced by Ford Australia between 1960 and 1962. It was the first of four models in the first of seven generations of the Australian Falcon produced until 2016, outlasting its North American namesake by several decades.
Overview
The first Falcon sold in Australia was the XK series, which was introduced in September 1960. It was initially offered only as a four-door sedan, in both Falcon and Falcon Deluxe trim levels; the Deluxe offered two-colour seat and door upholstery in vinyl. The XK was essentially a right-hand drive version of the North American 1960 model, although local rural dealers often included modifications such as heavy-duty rear suspension (five leaves) and larger 6.50 x 13 tyres. Front seat belts were optional.[3]
The steering was light and the ride surprisingly good, on well-paved roads. Whereas the North American model used an 'economy' 3.10:1 rear axle ratio, the Australian Falcon was built with a 3.56:1 ratio which better complemented the torque characteristics of the engine. It had a 38 ft turning circle.[4]