DFB's Image Collection - Page 9

**DFB FGXR6** · 13-01-2024, 07:13 PM

BA MK II FPV continued.............

I have always loved this image, and it wasn't a CGI either, that very Ford GT was in Australia at the time, popping up at the FPV Open Day as well. No idea what happened with that car, probably sent back to Detroit. I also have no idea why it was in Australia to begin with.

The Super Pursuit arrived in June 2005 and was basically a GT-P Ute, using the same performance seats, Brembo brakes and 19-inch wheels. I also gained the hard lid and spoiler.

**DFB FGXR6** · 13-01-2024, 07:26 PM

These are the press release's I have on the BA MK II F6 models -

Friday, February 27, 2004
BLOWN FOR SIX

Ford Performance Vehicles will re-write the rules in the Australian high-performance car segment with its first turbo-charged production concept car - the F6 Typhoon.

Unveiled today at the Melbourne Motor Show, the F6 Typhoon is certain to establish FPV as the technical leaders in the tribal high-performance market and reinforce the six-cylinder engine as a worthy alternative to FPV's class-leading Boss 290 V8 engine.

The 4.0-litre turbo-charged and intercooled six-cylinder F6 270 Turbo engine will produce an amazing 270kW of power and a staggering 550Nm of torque - the highest torque output of any production engine ever built in Australia.
"This car is the next step in re-affirming Ford Performance Vehicles as the benchmark high-performance car manufacturer in Australia," says David Flint, Managing Director of Ford Performance Vehicles.

"It will broaden the appeal of the Ford Performance Vehicles brand and introduce a new range of owners to our family. But we believe it will also expand the boundaries of what our owners expect, and what they experience, from Ford Performance Vehicles as it delivers a completely unique and exciting driving experience.

The F6 Typhoon will join the GT, GT-P and Pursuit Ute as part of the FPV range with production scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2004.
It is expected to retail between $56,000 and $59,000 when it goes on sale, further emphasizing FPV's philosophy of providing outstanding value and performance. It is anticipated that all F6 Typhoon owners will also experience the benefits of the FPV Performance Driving Course. FPV is the only manufacturer in Australia to offer a defensive driver training course with every new vehicle purchased.

"The F6 Typhoon, we believe, has the potential to become one of Australia's next motoring icons," Flint added.

"The F6 Typhoon and the GT will sit alongside each other as the ultimate expressions of our Total Performance mantra. It is not just about us turning up the turbo boost, but comprehensively engineering a six-cylinder high-performance car that carries all the benchmarks FPV has been recognized for with the GT, GT-P and Pursuit."

The F6 Typhoon production concept is instantly recognizable as part of the FPV family with its standout styling. However, it has a range of unique styling cues, including pewter highlights on the front and rear bumpers, high-tech mesh grille inserts and a rear bootlid spoiler with FPV's trademark three-pillar design.

Inside the cockpit, the car has sports seats with a technical design, suede bolsters and FPV identification in the headrests. It also features aluminium pedals and interior highlights and the unique FPV dash-mounted starter button.

The F6 Typhoon production concept has 355mm front and 330mm rear cross-drilled and ventilated brake rotors with race-bred Brembo calipers and a five-speed manual gearbox.

Friday, February 27, 2004
TALK ABOUT TORQUE!

The Ford Performance Vehicles F6 Typhoon will be powered by one of the most exciting engines ever to be built in Australia.

The F6 270 Turbo is a turbo charged and intercooled 4.0-litre in-line six-cylinder powerplant with double overhead camshafts and a four-valve aluminium cylinder head. It produces its maximum power of 270kW at 5250rpm while its maximum torque of 550Nm is on tap from 2000rpm and remains constant all the way through to 4250rpm.

It produces more than 80 per cent of its maximum torque at 1500 rpm and over 98 per cent at 1750rpm, ensuring exhilarating performance while also providing an extremely flexible and relaxed nature for everyday city driving.
The F6 Typhoon will reinforce Ford Performance Vehicles as the leader in advanced engine technology amongst the high-performance car makers in Australia.

"This exciting engine follows the high-tech path we have already forged with the quad-cam Boss 290 - the only V8 engine to be produced in Australia," says David Flint, managing director of Ford Performance Vehicles.
"The fact that it produces the highest torque output of any production engine ever built in Australia is a clear signal that FPV is forging ahead as the powerhouse of Australian performance cars.

"Tickford established its credentials here in Australia with the original Ford Falcon XR6 in 1992. Now the time is right, with the outstanding BA Falcon platform, to reinforce our influence on the six-cylinder high-performance market in Australia - and take it to the next level."
The increase in power and torque over the Ford XR6 Turbo engine has been achieved through maximizing the efficiency of cooling and induction processes of the engine.

It features a 50 per cent larger air-to-air intercooler and a dual air intake system that significantly reduces intake pressure into the turbo's compressor, therefore allowing it work more effectively.

The electronic engine management system has also been modified to increase torque at low engine speeds while still maintaining the engine's ability to run on 95 RON octane fuel.

FPV's engineers have also fitted high-strength conrods, heavy-duty valve springs and an oil-to-water oil cooler to handle the increased loads offered by the extra power and torque.

Additional product information will be released closer to the final launch date.

Monday, August 2, 2004
SIX APPEAL TO BOOST FPV RANGE

Ford Performance Vehicles will introduce a high-tech new six-speed manual transmission to its line up when it launches the BA MkII range, including the exciting turbo-charged F6 Typhoon, in October.

Scheduled to be unveiled at the Sydney Motor Show on October 7, the final production version of the FPV F6 Typhoon will showcase the introduction of the new close-ratio Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission.
The six-speed manual gearbox will also become standard equipment in the updated MkII FPV GT, GT-P and Pursuit, all of which are powered by the high-tech quad cam Boss 290 - the only V8 engine to be built in Australia.

All Boss V8-powered FPV models will be available with the current four-speed automatic with sequential shift function as an option while the F6 Typhoon will be launched exclusively with the new six-speed manual transmission. The F6 Typhoon will be powered by a turbo-charged high-performance version of the 4.0-litre DOHC in-line six cylinder with 270kW of power and 550Nm of torque - the highest torque output of any Australian production engine.

"The introduction of a six-speed manual gearbox to the FPV lineup is the next phase in the evolution of our high-performance range," says David Flint, Managing Director of Ford Performance Vehicles.

"It will enhance the driving enjoyment of our vehicles and provide improvements in a number of areas, including acceleration."

FPV will release final details of its MkII lineup at the Sydney Motor Show on October 7.

Thursday, October 7, 2004
TYPHOON HITS!

Prepare to batten down the hatches as the awesome power of Ford Performance Vehicles' exciting new F6 Typhoon has finally hit town.
FPV has today blown the covers off the final production version of the exciting turbo-charged F6 Typhoon at the Sydney Motor Show.

Powered by the F6 270 Turbo engine with 270kW of power and 550Nm of torque, the F6 Typhoon is certain to create a storm and boost the appeal and presence of FPV in the Australian high-performance car segment.
Production of the F6 Typhoon is scheduled to commence in mid October with FPV dealerships currently taking orders for vehicles.

The F6 Typhoon will have a recommended retail price of $58,950, excluding dealer delivery and statutory charges, and is available exclusively with the new close-ratio Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission.

"The F6 Typhoon is the next vehicle to deliver on our promise of creating a family of high-performance vehicles that appeal to a broader community of sports car enthusiasts," Managing Director of Ford Performance Vehicles, David Flint, says.

"This car proves that FPV is a leader and not a follower. The F6 Typhoon is unrivalled in this marketplace and takes our commitment to the local high-performance car segment to a new level."

"We believe the F6 Typhoon fits in to our existing range perfectly. The F6 Typhoon and GT are our ultimate expressions of Total Performance for six-cylinder and V8 vehicles."

At the heart of the F6 Typhoon is its powerplant: the F6 270 Turbo. The engine is based on the award-winning turbo-charged and intercooled 4.0-litre DOHC inline six-cylinder from the Ford Falcon XR6 Turbo. It has been specifically tuned by Prodrive for use in the F6 Typhoon, increasing power from 240kW to 270kW at 5250rpm and boosting torque from 450Nm to a class-leading 550Nm at 2000-4000rpm.

The F6 270 Turbo produces the highest torque output of any production-based Australian-built high-performance engine.
The engine features a 50 per cent larger twelve-core intercooler and dual entry ram airbox to create a more efficient induction system which naturally increases turbo boost pressure by 50 per cent to 0.64bar.
The engine also features revised internal parts, including high-strength valve springs and heavy-duty conrods, as well as a unique FPV oil cooler to ensure consistent performance during enthusiastic driving.

Because of the benchmark torque output, the F6 Typhoon features a high-tech twin-plate clutch engineered and supplied by British-based AP Racing. This 240mm clutch system creates more precise power delivery and increased durability for sports driving but also reduces pedal effort, therefore providing a more user-friendly manual gearbox for everyday driving.
The F6 Typhoon is the only Australian-built vehicle with a twin-plate clutch.
It also comes exclusively with the new FPV-engineered version of the Tremec T56 close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. To enhance the launch feel and initial acceleration, the F6 Typhoon has a 3.73:1 final drive ratio and unique first gear ratio.

The F6 Typhoon has stunning new-design 18x8 alloy wheels with polished double spokes and black shadow rims with 235/40 ZR18 Dunlop SP9000 tyres. Behind the wheels are FPV performance brakes with twin-grooved 325mm ventilated front and 303mm solid rear discs with blue twin-piston front and single-piston rear calipers. FPV's premium Brembo brakes, with cross-drilled and ventilated 355mm front and 330mm rear rotors and four-piston red calipers, are optional. Both braking packages come with four-channel ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

Adding to the safety package, the F6 Typhoon has dual front and side front airbags and switchable traction control as standard equipment.
Visually, the F6 Typhoon is easily recognisable as part of the FPV range and features exclusive gun metal highlights in the front splitter, driving lights surrounds, side skirt flutes and rear valance.

The F6 Typhoon has a number of unique visual styling cues to separate it from the Boss-powered siblings, including exclusive high-tech design chrome grille mesh in the front bumper with an F6 badge in the top air intake and, at the other end of the vehicle, a low-rise rear spoiler with the traditional FPV three-pillar design.

Inside the cockpit, the F6 Typhoon is loaded with the latest high-tech features, including power windows, power adjustable driver's seat and the range-topping Interior Command Centre with dual-zone climate control air conditioning and Premium Sound, including of a 150 Watt amplifier, sub woofer and six-disc in-dash CD player. The F6 Typhoon also comes with twin-pod Sports Instrument gauges, exclusive to FPV, displaying turbo boost pressure and oil pressure.

The FPV Sports seats have suede-feel bolsters, a unique Technik trim fabric that matches the triangular design in the grille mesh and FPV logos embroided on the back rests. Leather trim featuring the same Technik design pattern is optional.

The F6 Typhoon also has the dash-mounted starter button that is a signature feature on all FPV models, and, as with all FPV models, each customer is entitled to a full-day Performance Driver Training course and exclusive owner gifts.

Thursday, October 7, 2004
FPV WHIPS UP A F6 TORNADO

Ford Performance Vehicles today confirmed it will add a high-performance turbo-charged six-cylinder Utility to its range in early 2005.

To be called the F6 Tornado and due for release in January 2005, this vehicle will expand the appeal of the FPV range and push the boundaries of the Australian performance utility segment.

The F6 Tornado is the workhorse sibling of the exciting F6 Typhoon sedan, powered by the same F6 270 Turbo six-cylinder engine with close-ratio six-speed manual transmission.

The F6 Tornado will become the entry ticket to the FPV family with a recommended retail price of $51,950 - excluding dealer delivery and statutory charges.

"The performance utility segment of the Australian market has experienced significant growth over the last few years," Managing Director of Ford Performance Vehicles, David Flint, says.

"The FPV F6 Tornado adds an exciting new dimension to the burgeoning ute culture, and will be a car that will literally blow our customers away with its performance, handling and value for money."

The turbo-charged and intercooled 4.0-litre DOHC six cylinder engine in the F6 Tornado delivers 270kW of power at 5250rpm and 550Nm from 2000-4000rpm.

It features all the upgraded mechanical elements of the F6 Typhoon sedan, including a 50 per cent larger twelve-core intercooler, dual entry ram airbox, heavy-duty conrods, high-strength valve springs and FPV oil cooler.
The F6 Tornado will be available exclusively with the FPV engineered version of the close-ratio Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 final drive ratio and AP Racing twin-plate clutch.

The F6 Tornado will come equipped with FPV Performance brakes with twin-grooved 325mm front and 303mm rear rotors with blue twin-piston front and single-piston rear calipers or the optional Brembo brakes with cross-drilled and ventilated 355mm front and 330mm rear rotors with four-piston calipers. Both packages have a three-channel ABS system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

It will follow the same exterior and interior design styling as the F6 Typhoon, including the stunning 18x8 double five-spoke alloy wheels, FPV front bumper with exclusive high-tech grille mesh and F6 badge, FPV Sports seats with Technik fabric trim and FPV logos, and signature dash-mounted starter button.

The F6 Tornado will come standard with air conditioning, power windows and Prestige Sound consisting of a 100 Watt system with a six-disc in-dash CD player. It will have a soft tonneau cover as standard fitment with an optional alloy Sports bar. A lockable hard tonneau cover featuring a rear wing can also be ordered.

And, as is the case with all FPV vehicles, each customer that purchases an F6 Tornado is entitled to a Performance Driver Training Course and exclusive owner gifts.

**DFB FGXR6** · 14-01-2024, 08:42 PM

Continuing the BA MK II topic, the XR8 Devil R and XR8 Enforcer.

After several years being completely embarrassed by Holden on the racetrack, for 2003 Ford got out the sledgehammer! The AU won a total of 23 races out of 125 in the 4 years it competed, nor did it win a championship or Bathurst 1000.

The BA racecar was highly anticipated by the teams and Ford fans alike. Finally, Ford teams were fighting with a (somewhat) level playing field, at least aerodynamically. Despite 2003 being the first year of Project Blueprint, this was also a time when there was less control parts and more freedom for teams to innovate. It's also worth noting that Ford's stronger presence in V8 Supercars during the 2000's was a direct result of then President Geoff Polites, who recognized racing as a vital tool for recruiting new blood and keeping existing customers interested in the brand, the Falcon in particular.

As has always been the case, there are one or two teams who sit above all else. Where HRT had the series by the throat for a number of years prior, the BA Falcon and Stone Brother's Racing shifted the balance. And as always, success in the category came down to a special blend of race car, race team and race driver. Marcos Ambrose was the star, while Russell Ingall brought maturity and determined grit to SBR, and to Ford in general. Also worth noting the stoutness of the SBR engines during those years, they held an edge that led to a number of teams having their engines supplied by SBR, 888 included.

SBR and the BA Falcon won on debut, Ingall winning the support races at that years Formula 1 Grand Prix. Ambrose then won the 2003 championship, backing that up again in 2004, while Ingall took out his first and only championship in 2005, celebrated by that iconic winning burnout!

To celebrate the success of Stone Brother's Racing, in 2005 Ford launched two special edition XR8's. The Shockwave Blue Devil R representing Ambrose, while the Envi Green Enforcer representing Ingall.

Both models shared 18-inch shadow chrome wheels, bonnet bulge decals (red for Devil R, black for Enforcer), sport leather trim with either blue or green stitching, sports steering wheel, while the carpet mats and headrests had Devil R or Enforcer lettering. Mechanically, the only change was the inclusion of premium brakes. Each vehicle was signed by the driver, which featured on the engine cover, owner's manual and a special racing print.

Representing $5000 of added value, a total of 250 of these special edition XR8's were made, 125 Devil R and 125 Enforcer. These are quite rare vehicles, I remember only ever seeing a couple on the roads over the years.

The Devil R would have been my choice, Marcos Ambrose was a hero to me in those years. As an underdog myself, seeing Ford and Ambrose come back with force and standing on the winner's step at the end of 2003 was monumental in my universe. Great times, ones that a long gone in the series these days.

**DFB FGXR6** · 15-01-2024, 05:50 PM

The FG-X Sprint – The End Of The Line

While the 2014 release of the FG-X Falcon represented the last model update in a long line of Falcon’s, the very last addition to the Falcon lineup was the XR6 Sprint and XR8 Sprint in 2016. With the Falcon GT having been given its final farewell two years earlier, Ford revived the historic Sprint nameplate for the final run of high-performance Falcon’s. Announced late in 2015 and entering production in early 2016, the Sprint editions were a passion project by Ford Australian engineers, and to me, a gift to the Falcon faithful.

(My note – while the Falcon sedan got a sendoff with the XR6 and XR8 Sprint, the Ute was pensioned off without a special release, in fact it ended production virtually unannounced. Considering Ford Australia pioneered the “Ute”, the lack of acknowledgement was pretty rude. I suspect Ford didn’t want to confuse the end of the Falcon “Ute” with the end of the Ford “Ute”, ie Ranger. Even so, the lack of recognition of the Falcon Ute and its contribution to both the local car industry, as well as the global car industry, was very sad.)

Stylistically, the Sprint models were all about subtle changes, with a focus on a “darkened” theme. The highlight for me were the sinister looking black bezel headlights, they looked amazing! The lights teamed with a black grill and grill surround, a new foglamp bezel design finished in black, unique fender feature with “Sprint” lettering, a black rear lip spoiler, black badging, and a body colour rear decklid trim (instead of chrome). There was also staggered 19-inch wheels finished in Panther Black, the same design used on the later GT-E and GT 5th Anniversary GT.

While both shared the same basic look, there were a couple of distinct differences between the XR6 and XR8. The XR6 Sprint had simple matte black stripes on the rear bumper, F6-style exhaust tip and body coloured side mirrors (instead of pewter) with side repeaters. The XR8 Sprint got a black painted roof, matte black stripes on the doors, black quad exhaust tips, and black painted side mirrors (instead of pewter).

XR6 and XR8 Sprint was offered with a choice of six colours: Winter White, Smoke, Aero Blue, Silhouette, Kinetic, Victory Gold. The ‘hero’ colours being Victory Gold for the XR8 and Smoke for the XR6.

**DFB FGXR6** · 15-01-2024, 05:52 PM

FG-X Sprint continued..............

On the inside, the darkened theme continued. Both models got unique Sprint leather seat trim, which Ford called Leather & Lux Suede, and included “Sprint” lettering on the backrest.

All Sprint’s got dual zone climate control and premium sound, dark ICC colouring with black buttons, an electro-chromatic rear vision mirror and overhead sunglasses holder, unique auto shifter assembly and surround (gloss black instead of satin aluminum), “Sprint” manual gear shifter (XR8 only), unique gauge cluster design with “Sprint” logo, “Sprint” scuff plates, and unique dash and door trim spears.

**DFB FGXR6** · 15-01-2024, 06:03 PM

FG-X Sprint continued..............

Ford could have stopped there, but thankfully, changes were made to the mechanical specifications too! Both XR6 and XR8 got a new S-Spec suspension tune with revised springs and dampers, which was a softer and more compliant calibration when compared to the R-Spec used previously on the XR8. The softer tune improved power-down and ride quality on the XR8, while offering superior body control for the XR6.

From the Sprint press release –

XR8 Sprint suspension improvements have:

– Improved ride
– Provided sharper handling
– Increased grip levels
– Improved braking performance and cornering stability
– Reduced understeer
– Increased body control
– Improved balance

XR6 Sprint suspension improvements have:

– Provided sportier ride
– Provided sharper handling
– Increased grip levels
– Improved braking performance and cornering stability
– Reduced understeer
– Increased body control
– Improved balance versus XR6 Turbo

To make the most of the S-Spec suspension, Ford specified new Pirelli tyres with 245/35/R19 on the front, and 265/35/R19 on the rear. Brakes were gold finished Brembo 6-Piston front, 4-piston rear calipers with 355mm front and 330mm rear rotors.

The icing on the Sprint cake was the revised powertrains, with both XR6 and XR8 seeing worthwhile power increases and superior engine control calibrations. Both engines benefitted from transient overboost functions, providing additional performance for up to 10 seconds under certain conditions. The I6 and V8 also got build number plaques on the rocker cover (I6) or intake plenum (V8).

Naturally, both engines got specific upgrades to boost performance -

XR6 Sprint –

Ford added the intercooler, larger turbo and injectors from the FPV F6 engine. There was also a new lower airbox with a specially designed carbon fibre intake snorkel, and the rocker cover was painted satin black. A unique powertrain and transmission calibration tied it all together. Only the 6-speed auto was offered due to a shortage of manual transmissions. The result was the most powerful Aussie made 6-cylinder of all time -

325 kW at 6000 rpm and 576 Nm at 2750 rpm
370 kW and 650 Nm (Overboost)

XR8 Sprint –

Changes to the Miami V8 were restricted to calibration improvements, in particular the boost-by-gear calibration that was implemented with the GT-F. There was also a launch control function and GT-F spec calibration for the 6-speed automatic. The V8 was largely hand assembled by a single technician, who also signed his initials under the supercharger snout. Not the most powerful V8 Falcon ever made, by not far of it -

345 kW at 5750 rpm and 575 Nm at 2220 - 6250 rpm
400 kW and 650 Nm (Overboost)

**DFB FGXR6** · 15-01-2024, 06:03 PM

FG-X Sprint continued, XR8..................

**DFB FGXR6** · 15-01-2024, 06:05 PM

FG-X Sprint continued, XR6...................

In total, Ford made 750 XR8 Sprint’s and 500 XR6 Sprint’s, with a further 100 XR8’s and 50 XR6’s for New Zealand. While you may think these were the last Falcon’s made, the actual last cars were a Winter White Territory Titanium and a Kinetic Blue XR6 sedan……………more on that in a later post.

**DJM83** · 15-01-2024, 06:28 PM

Sorry if i i overlooked it.
I know the auto/T6 was the ideal combo, but why was there never a manual/6T Sprint?

**DFB FGXR6** · 15-01-2024, 06:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DJM83

Sorry if i i overlooked it.
I know the auto/T6 was the ideal combo, but why was there never a manual/6T Sprint?

Ford underestimated how many transmissions they would need for the FG-X, in particular the Tremec manual. From memory, they didn't have sufficient supply of the 6-cylinfer version for the Sprint program. You also need to consider the cost saving they would have achieved by only delivering one rather than two powertrain calibrations for the Sprint 6. I would also think most would have chosen the auto anyway considering how it was better suited to the I6T.

**FTE217** · 15-01-2024, 07:52 PM

I placed my order to my local in 2015 as soon as I got some inside goss Sprint was in the making from some good friends in AFF close to the Ford team working on it.
Didn’t have a clue what was coming but I had to have the last V8 and in traditional manual.
Didn’t care of much else as long as I was confirmed I got one.
Come later in 2016 I had a heart attack upon hearing my baby was in the making But that it was a auto !
I jumped up and down at my sales guy asking wtf and the manager even said he had done all he could they couldn’t change it .
In the meantime another good TSeries Club friend who worked in the factory was sending my pics of the build and #.
So I reached out to my close AFF mafia mates down south and explained what is going on.
One did have some clout for I was advised the National Sales advisor was going to call me.
He was informed what had occurred and told me don’t worry you’ll get a manual he arranged shuffling the deck !
I went back to my dealer and they were flabbergasted saying I must know some in high places lol !
I couldn’t thanks that Sales guy enough in making sure my last V8 Falcon manual dream happened.
#255 will forever stay with me.
Funnily the day I picked it up was my wife’s bday haha - I’ll never forget that day 23rd Sept 2016 I went up to Garlicks with one of my you guys sons and daughter.
There was my name in lights in the showroom congrats picking up your Sprint XR8.
My kids pulled the light car cover off and we 3 just melted seeing it up front and centre in gleaming sillouette.
Finally staggered wheels, the gold calipers and 6pot fronts are superb.
They had waited over a year with me - going through the usual Salesman demos of the car was punishing we just wanted to get out of there and start the Miami up and get home and admire it next to the T3.
My luv hasn’t diminished - the Miami is intoxicating and in manual I feel like I’m back in my fandom Moff days in the ‘70’s when driving it - going Ford is a Good Thing feeling more so it’s a Falcon !
Stops on a dime - too much power for the back end but that’s typical.
My rear pirellis wore out in 10000k’s lol
Not from abuse but fast launch’s the rubber just peels off but same what fun !
With one son we had a AmG SUV want to give is a go once near home, I dropped the perfect launch avoided wheel spin the supercharger whined to redline and we blew him and come to the next set off lights - he looked wanted another run, we just lol’d at him he had his chance against the cheap poor mans Falcon haha
Luv this car and Thankyou FOA it’s the finest made imo.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

**Cav** · 15-01-2024, 10:35 PM

If I can be so bold as to inject my pearls of wisdom into this thread...

I bought an FGX XR6 ute with leather interior

It was to be my final car.

My wife and I used it to tow a caravan but to abide by state loading rules, the tray was basically empty and I was concerned about how an unladen ute would cope with a caravan in an emergency situation.

So I traded the ute to a diesel AWD Territory which was a fabulous tow car.

Years later I sold the caravan and bought an FGXR6 Ute in mint condition

Now for the fun part.

The FG had the French 5 speed auto and I dunno what the previous owner did to this car but out on the open road it was sensational. Overtaking was a cinch, get to 3,000 revs and the thing would take off, so much so that my wife used to grip her seat as we went into warp speed overtaking the other less mortals in our way.

This car was so much betterer than the FGX, how can that be?

My wife's grandson now has the ute and I drive around in a 2013 Fiat 500 :-( But I am doing up an AU.

What I am trying to say is that I believe the FG series one is the best Falcons and maybe one day I'll be cruising in an FG G6E picking up chicks.

FPV414 · 18-01-2024, 08:53 AM

The F6 was such a beautiful car when released. It's a shame pretty much all BA's are now in terrible condition, and parts to restore are impossible to find. I know a few people ended up wrecking perfectly good ones when they couldn't sell them complete, as they were worth more in parts.

^^ This image shows a 5 speed gearknob, suede console lid and a monochrome Fairmont spec ICC. None of which were correct for production cars lol.

**DFB FGXR6** · 19-01-2024, 07:27 PM

The LS Focus.

The original Focus was a huge success for Ford. The groundbreaking styling hooked buyers into showrooms, and the benchmark chassis tuning gave the car substance.

The original LR Focus landed in Australia at the same time as the BA Falcon went on sale, as such, it arrived too late in the model cycle and was shaded by the attention being directed at one of the most important updates to the Falcon in its history. Sound familiar to how things work today with Ranger and Everest vs the rest of the range.

Revealed at the 2004 Paris motor show and launched locally in 2005, the second-generation LS Focus series had very big shoes to fill, in Europe at least. For Australia, the LS Focus was about taking the nameplate to the next level of potential.

Some critique was leveled at Ford for going conservative with the interior and exterior styling of the second-generation Focus, I tend to agree with that. However, you need to consider how much a leap the original was compared to not only the outgoing Escort, but for the segment as a whole. This sort of revolution, evolution and then revolution has been a car industry theme that is common to all makes and models. Personally, I preferred the original Focus, but then I liked the AU Falcon too. Go figure.

Where the original LR models were made in Germany, the LS Focus was sourced from South Africa. Quality took a backward step, especially the interior material choice and fit and finish. For Australia, we got 5-door hatch and 4-door sedan, we missed out on the 3-door. The range continued with base CL, mid-spec LX, sporty Zetec and luxury Ghia sedan.

Mechanically, the LS Focus signaled the arrival of the C1 platform, which was also used by Mazda for the first generation 3, along with Volvo's new S40 sedan and V50 wagon. The control blade IRS continued, something that really set the Focus apart at the time, most competition were using strut or torsion beam rear suspension designs. Electro-hydraulic power steering was also included.

The biggest improvement for the LS Focus was the engine. The LR Focus was really let down by the ancient iron block 1.8 and 2.0 Zetec engines, unrefined and underpowered, they really didn't do the chassis justice. For the LS, the new all alloy 2.0 Duratec engine used across the range delivered benchmark numbers at the time, 107 kW at 6000 rpm and 185 Nm at 4000 rpm.

On a personal note, my sisters first car was a black 2005 Focus Zetec Hatch with the 4-speed auto. For someone like me who grew up driving big Falcon's, the Focus was a revelation! The Zetec had 17-inch wheels with sport suspension, making it agile and more entertaining to drive than the 107 kW would suggest. The steering was brilliant, perfectly weighted and with excellent feel. You could throw this car around with plenty in reserve. Overall, a very cohesive driving experience.

The only thing that really grated was the horrendous road noise, exaggerated by the wider tyres on the Zetec. This aspect was common to all vehicles on the C1 platform though. Combined with the buzzy engine, the Focus could be tiresome over longer distances. That car also had a failed fuel level sender, and the alternator failed and left my sister stranded in the middle of an intersection. Apart from that, she did about 100,000 km in the car, trading for a second-generation Mazda 6..........which also had terrible road noise.

This colour was called Blueprint, but certainly not the same Blueprint used on AU III and BA Falcon XR's. Zetec also got black bezel headlights and a body kit with side skirts, rear bumper extension and front bumper apron that made the lower grill appear bigger. Easily the pic of the LS Focus models prior to the XR5 / ST arriving.

**DFB FGXR6** · 19-01-2024, 07:31 PM

LS Focus continued.......................

While not the picture of svelte beauty, the LS Focus sedan was much better looking than the poorly integrated original. Even so, the sedan was comfortably outsold by the hatch.

**DFB FGXR6** · 21-01-2024, 05:03 PM

The AU II Falcon.

It’s safe to say that the AU Falcon fell on it face. Too different and too radical for its time. Combined with lazy specification and mechanical choices, the earliest AU Falcon’s certainly left a lot to be desired.

There were several running changes made between the September 1998 arrival and the AU Series II in April 2000 (May for Ute and LWB) –

April 1999 - Reduced ride height by 1-inch front and rear for all non-XR models. Bigger brake booster. New key and security system including panic alarm. Front seat belt height adjustment for Forte, Futura & XR6 HP. Power front windows for Forte. XR gains Falcon S/XLS wheels. Revised trim colours.

September 1999 - Vanity Mirror on Forte, Cargo blinds for all Wagons.

The AU II Falcon was a comprehensive update to address multiple complaints with the original. Considering the AU was only two years into its lifecycle, styling changes were limited to easily (cheaply) changed components –

-New front grill including high series bonnet for Forte, Futura and Falcon S

-New front grill for Fairmont models

-New front bumper design for XR models

-New (deeper) rear bumpers for all short wheelbase sedans (the design was the same, just deeper to reduce the egg shape)

-High series taillights for all models (sedan and wagon)

-New rear number plate appliques (with FALCON or FAIRMONT lettering) and badging (sedans only, except T-Series)

-New spoiler for XR & TE50 (straighter rather than following the curvature of the boot lid)

-Lip spoiler for Futura

-New optional body kit for all sedans (Tickford option)

-New exhaust tip for Forte & Futura sedans (chamfered steel sleeve)

- Chrome tip for Falcon S

- New 16'' wheels & wheel trims for Forte

- New wheels for Futura (now 16''), Fairmont (now 16''), Fairmont Ghia. XR8 now 17''

-Both XR6 & XR8 Utes now have 17'' alloys

-Model name badges now on TE/TS side skirts and engine cover as well as accent bumper sections

-New "Azzuro" 18" alloys optional on T-Series

Overall, it was still an AU Falcon, but the aim was to visually straighten out soften some of the controversial stylistic elements. It’s probably the XR models that had the most visual impact, with the straighter lines of the front bumper and crisper spoiler making it look less egg-shaped, more masculine and less petite. An AU XR6 or 8 with the Tickford body kit and 17-inch wheels looks fantastic to my eyes.

There was a raft of interior changes too –

-Redesigned center instrument panel in Onyx Pearl metallic finish including digital clock & nickel plate switch gear for Ute, Forte, Futura and XR.

-Warm charcoal now standard interior colour, Dark graphite replaces medium graphite. New trim for all models except S/XLS, including full cloth trim for
Forte & XL (rather than vinyl backings).

-New leather trim options with logo for TE50

-Leather trim now available on XR sedan and utes

-New dial faces and needles for all models. XR models gain blue dial faces

-Cruise control now standard on XR6 HP

-Forte and XL gain variable wipers

-New 100-watt CD/Cassette audio for Forte, Futura, S and XR6 HP, XL & XLS. Prestige audio for XR6 VCT and XR8, optional on XLS

-In-dash CD Stacker for Fairmont Ghia, Fairlane & LTD

-Fairmont Ghia & TS50 gain 6-way powered seat. LTD gain 10-way memory seat & mirrors

-Sunglasses holder for all sedans, utes & wagons

-Speed Alert now on Forte, Futura, S, XR and utes

-New boot carpet with logo for T-Series

Safety upgrades were also a focus -

-Passenger airbag now standard for Forte, Futura, S and XR

-New restraint control module

-Pyrotechnic seat belt pretensioners

-Fairmont sedan & wagon now have traction control

-Updated security system with panic alarm & flashing Smartlock symbol. Lock/Unlock button re-appear. Key-out courtesy light, ignition illumination

But it was the mechanical package that got the lions share of the updates –

-Upgraded NVH including laminated firewall & hydraulic engine mounts

-Upgraded brakes including larger & thicker rotors, enhanced booster, twin piston calipers & longer lasting pads

-XR6 VCT and XR8 now available with T-Series Premium brake system

-T-Series Premium brakes now have red coloured calipers

-Revised front spindle (to fit new brakes)

-Recalibrated suspension for all non-XR models..........

For IRS cars, changes were made to spring rates, jounce bumpers and shock absorber settings. The rear top suspension mount was also adjusted.

For the Watts Link set up, new shock settings. Both Watts Link and IRS versions have a new shock absorber valve design with improved low speed tunability and reduced friction

The front suspension was equipped with reduced friction ball joints.
There was also an improved front anti-roll bar, while a rear anti-roll bar was added to IRS versions.

LWB got new shocks, ball joints and mountings and new 225/60 low rolling resistance tyres

-200kW engine for XR8 sedan

-Revised 220kW engine with new camshaft standard on all T-series

-TS50 now available with (upgraded) Manual

-TE50 lost premium brakes

-Service intervals out to 15,000 km

-Free scheduled services to 60,000 km

Those last two points were all about winning back fleet customers with a lower total-cost-of-ownership figure, while the free servicing was to lure private customers to buy Falcon again. Geoff Polites was quoted as saying that Ford had “a sales marketing job to do”, in effect determining that they had to make the most of what they had until the new model arrived in a few years’ time. Offering free servicing, aggressive drive-away pricing and putting more focus on the XR models was all part of that.

Another fleet focus was the introduction of the Dedicated LPG engine. While the Tickford fitted LPG dual fuel option was still offered, the DLPG engine arrived in July 2000 and deleted the standard fuel tank for two LPG tanks. Offered on Forte and Futura sedans and wagons, Falcon S sedan, along with XL and XLS utes, the DLPG engine with its green painted rocker cover became a unique selling point for the Falcon.

No idea what the "Barby" Ute was in aid of though..........

**DFB FGXR6** · 21-01-2024, 05:49 PM

AU II continued...........

**kcodezd** · 21-01-2024, 05:56 PM

LPG=BBQ gas. Someone had a sense of humour.

Thanks for sharing D. Otherwise all lost to time.

**DFB FGXR6** · 21-01-2024, 06:03 PM

AU II continued.............

Over the following months, there were a number of running changes to the AU II –

July 2000 - Sat Nav became available on Fairmont & Fairlane models. Standard on LTD

March 2001 - Tickford Body Kit now available for XR utes

April 2001 - Air conditioning now standard on XR utes. 200kW engine now standard on XR8 ute. VCT engine now standard on XR6 ute. Re-worked Cast Iron heads and a higher compression replace alloy heads on 220 V8 (T-Series)

May 2001 - Manual gearbox now available on Forte sedan (why!?), 220kW engine (iron heads) standard on XR8 sedan. XR6 VCT now has 17-inch wheels. Body coloured mirrors and side skirts standard on XR sedans. LSD Std on XR6 HP.

There was also a several special edition models offered during the AU II run –

Futura and Fairmont Ghia 75th Anniversary -

The SR basically replaced the Falcon S. To be honest, I never understood the point of the Falcon S when Ford offered two versions of the XR6 during the AU run, from memory there the price difference between the two was minimal as well. The SR would return again for the run-out of the AU III, but lost the body colour grill in the process, which was no great loss in my opinion.

XL Tradesman, with the optional V8 no less -

XLS Marlin -

This XR8 Xplode was not a production car, rather a concept created with Sony, again another attempt to bring some interest to the Falcon. I always loved those Momo wheels they used on this car, and you can see the Premium brakes hiding behind those sexy spokes too.

The tasty XR8 Rebel with the 220 kW engine and new "Ford Racing Body Kit"..........

The XR8 Pursuit Ute signaled the arrival of the 200 kW engine for the XR8 ute, the earlier AU II models kept the 185 kW engine for some reason. After the run of Pursuit models, the 200 kW engine then became standard. No XR8 ute got the 220 kW engine. And course, the Pursuit name would pop up again in 2002 in the form of the Pursuit 250, the T-Series ute in other words. Then from BA onwards, the Pursuit name became a regular production model for FPV.

ToryMikey · 21-01-2024, 07:32 PM

I remember that era well - I was primary school aged at the time and my grandfather had just retired so he had the time to take me to the Ford dealerships to gawk at the new releases.

**DFB FGXR6** · 21-01-2024, 09:21 PM

The R5 Concept.

Developed with a $250,000 budget, the R5 Concept surfaced at the 2000 Sydney Motor Show and would go on to preview some important projects Ford Australia were working on.

"The basic brief for the R5 was very simple. We wanted to create a vehicle that built upon the recreational features of the highly successful AU Falcon ute," said Ford Australia president Geoff Polites.

"The ability to carry five people with a host of gear would create all sorts of travel and activity options for our customers. Our designers have taken the Falcon ute to another level."

Based on a Falcon ute platform, the cabin was extended rearward of the B-pillar and combined standard front doors with rear suicide doors. To do this, Ford also deleted the deleted the B-pillar. Behind the cabin was a shortened Falcon ute tub.

While clearly an AU derivative, there were some important clues towards some upcoming models. The first being the bold dual circular headlights, a preview of the BA Falcon. You can also see the rough outline of the BA XR lower air dam and foglamp arrangement, as well as the diamond pattern grill. On the inside, the BA and Territory influence would become very clear in the coming years. Although there are some unique elements like the steering wheel (from the Mondeo), air vents (from the KA!), and dial cluster, you can clearly see this previewed the BA and Territory ICC layout, door trims and center console design.

Both R5 concepts were powered by the 220kW 5.0-liter Windsor V8 mated to a T5 five-speed manual transmission. There was also the larger brakes from the BA and traction control.

There actually two versions of the R5 Concept. The earlier version that was shown in Sydney was 2WD, while the later variant with 4WD appeared in March 2001 at the Melbourne Motor Show.

R5 Specifics -

- ‘Ghost Gum Silver’ paint
- Unique front bumper
- Pumped wheel arch flares
- Integrated side skirts with twin port exhaust outlets
- 18-inch wheels with 245/50R18 tyres and a unique 'reptile' tread face
- A bumper mounted one-tonne electric winch
- An integrated sports bar
- Rear bumper with integrated 240v power socket and an outlet for a 50-litre on-board fresh water storage tank
- Seats with Eucalypt suede and charcoal nylon mesh inserts.
- Brushed aluminum highlights on the dash, gearshift and door trims.
- Controls for the in-car electronics which included telematics, climate control, satellite navigation and mobile equipment such as phone, fax and e-mail access.
- Folding rear seat for access to the load area

In addition to the above, the later 4WD version had the following -

- 'Uluru Sunset' paint
- 17-inch wheels with 235/65R17 F1 Wrangler tyres
- 70mm increased ride height over the 2WD
- Hella 'Comet FF100' high output lights mounted on the sports bar
- Integrated bull bar
- Unique decal graphics
- Unique adaptive four-wheel drive system with electronic distribution of power to each of the four wheels, and delivered a 60/40 between the rear and front wheels in normal driving.

I am almost certain that the reveal of the Ford R5 Concept prompted Holden to develop the Frankenstein 4-door Crewman Ute, which was ungainly looking and slapped together in the most hack job way. Next time you see one, check out all the panel joins used to mate several cut-n-shut panels together.

Of all the times Holden pulled the wool over Ford’s eyes and made them look silly, the R5 that paved the way for the highly regarded and successful Territory for once gave Ford the free kick. Where Holden went lazy and simply bolted driveshafts and taller springs to an existing body shell, Ford’s path proved to be much closer to what buyers were wanting. And the fact Ford offered and sold a higher ratio of 2WD variants proved it wasn’t necessarily the 4WD system buyers of SUV’s wanted.

Sprintey · 22-01-2024, 08:42 AM

Great thread, keep it coming, so much to learn!

**FTE217** · 22-01-2024, 09:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

The R5 Concept.

Developed with a $250,000 budget, the R5 Concept surfaced at the 2000 Sydney Motor Show and would go on to preview some important projects Ford Australia were working on.

"The basic brief for the R5 was very simple. We wanted to create a vehicle that built upon the recreational features of the highly successful AU Falcon ute," said Ford Australia president Geoff Polites.

"The ability to carry five people with a host of gear would create all sorts of travel and activity options for our customers. Our designers have taken the Falcon ute to another level."

Based on a Falcon ute platform, the cabin was extended rearward of the B-pillar and combined standard front doors with rear suicide doors. To do this, Ford also deleted the deleted the B-pillar. Behind the cabin was a shortened Falcon ute tub.

While clearly an AU derivative, there were some important clues towards some upcoming models. The first being the bold dual circular headlights, a preview of the BA Falcon. You can also see the rough outline of the BA XR lower air dam and foglamp arrangement, as well as the diamond pattern grill. On the inside, the BA and Territory influence would become very clear in the coming years. Although there are some unique elements like the steering wheel (from the Mondeo), air vents (from the KA!), and dial cluster, you can clearly see this previewed the BA and Territory ICC layout, door trims and center console design.

Both R5 concepts were powered by the 220kW 5.0-liter Windsor V8 mated to a T5 five-speed manual transmission. There was also the larger brakes from the BA and traction control.

There actually two versions of the R5 Concept. The earlier version that was shown in Sydney was 2WD, while the later variant with 4WD appeared in March 2001 at the Melbourne Motor Show.

R5 Specifics -

- ‘Ghost Gum Silver’ paint
- Unique front bumper
- Pumped wheel arch flares
- Integrated side skirts with twin port exhaust outlets
- 18-inch wheels with 245/50R18 tyres and a unique 'reptile' tread face
- A bumper mounted one-tonne electric winch
- An integrated sports bar
- Rear bumper with integrated 240v power socket and an outlet for a 50-litre on-board fresh water storage tank
- Seats with Eucalypt suede and charcoal nylon mesh inserts.
- Brushed aluminum highlights on the dash, gearshift and door trims.
- Controls for the in-car electronics which included telematics, climate control, satellite navigation and mobile equipment such as phone, fax and e-mail access.
- Folding rear seat for access to the load area

image

image

image

image

image

image

image

In addition to the above, the later 4WD version had the following -

- 'Uluru Sunset' paint
- 17-inch wheels with 235/65R17 F1 Wrangler tyres
- 70mm increased ride height over the 2WD
- Hella 'Comet FF100' high output lights mounted on the sports bar
- Integrated bull bar
- Unique decal graphics
- Unique adaptive four-wheel drive system with electronic distribution of power to each of the four wheels, and delivered a 60/40 between the rear and front wheels in normal driving.

image

image

image

image

image

image

I am almost certain that the reveal of the Ford R5 Concept prompted Holden to develop the Frankenstein 4-door Crewman Ute, which was ungainly looking and slapped together in the most hack job way. Next time you see one, check out all the panel joins used to mate several cut-n-shut panels together.

Of all the times Holden pulled the wool over Ford’s eyes and made them look silly, the R5 that paved the way for the highly regarded and successful Territory for once gave Ford the free kick. Where Holden went lazy and simply bolted driveshafts and taller springs to an existing body shell, Ford’s path proved to be much closer to what buyers were wanting. And the fact Ford offered and sold a higher ratio of 2WD variants proved it wasn’t necessarily the 4WD system buyers of SUV’s wanted.

Funny peoples tastes always vary.
I actually liked the Crewman - when I kept seeing one lowered and staggered wheels they looked fat.
I was jealous Ford didn't have and the Cross 8 might I add.
I've had/have no luv for the Terri as good as it is for the many who bought and rave about it, having the I6 was the winner but just saying I liked the Holden variants as mentioned.

**FTE217** · 22-01-2024, 09:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

AU II continued.............

Over the following months, there were a number of running changes to the AU II –

July 2000 - Sat Nav became available on Fairmont & Fairlane models. Standard on LTD

March 2001 - Tickford Body Kit now available for XR utes

April 2001 - Air conditioning now standard on XR utes. 200kW engine now standard on XR8 ute. VCT engine now standard on XR6 ute. Re-worked Cast Iron heads and a higher compression replace alloy heads on 220 V8 (T-Series)

May 2001 - Manual gearbox now available on Forte sedan (why!?), 220kW engine (iron heads) standard on XR8 sedan. XR6 VCT now has 17-inch wheels. Body coloured mirrors and side skirts standard on XR sedans. LSD Std on XR6 HP.

There was also a several special edition models offered during the AU II run –

image

image

Futura and Fairmont Ghia 75th Anniversary -

image

image

image

The SR basically replaced the Falcon S. To be honest, I never understood the point of the Falcon S when Ford offered two versions of the XR6 during the AU run, from memory there the price difference between the two was minimal as well. The SR would return again for the run-out of the AU III, but lost the body colour grill in the process, which was no great loss in my opinion.

image

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XL Tradesman, with the optional V8 no less -

image

XLS Marlin -

image

This XR8 Xplode was not a production car, rather a concept created with Sony, again another attempt to bring some interest to the Falcon. I always loved those Momo wheels they used on this car, and you can see the Premium brakes hiding behind those sexy spokes too.

image

image

The tasty XR8 Rebel with the 220 kW engine and new "Ford Racing Body Kit"..........

image

image

image

The XR8 Pursuit Ute signaled the arrival of the 200 kW engine for the XR8 ute, the earlier AU II models kept the 185 kW engine for some reason. After the run of Pursuit models, the 200 kW engine then became standard. No XR8 ute got the 220 kW engine. And course, the Pursuit name would pop up again in 2002 in the form of the Pursuit 250, the T-Series ute in other words. Then from BA onwards, the Pursuit name became a regular production model for FPV.

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Like most of us when we saw S1 Forte released we all just wanted to run and hide.
Real shame they screwed up big time considering it was a huge change in design/shape the market was so accustomed to.
I sat on the fence - annoyed more than anything for I wanted another new Falcon but I just couldn't bring myself to it.
The S1 XR8 actually looked pretty acceptable tarted up what they did but the it was damn gutless for me.
Thankfully FOA figured out how to improve the look and features for S2 realy started to get my eye.
I waited waited and once I saw the late S2/3 Racing kit and 220kw I jumped into my new XR8 in Meteorite.
Luved that XR8 so so much - who would have thought how damn reliable AU's ended up being, a stayer and keeper imo.

Sprintey · 22-01-2024, 10:07 AM

Bro had a Crewman SS, it was cool and tough, but wow the rain would come in through the top of the door seals at the windows!

**DFB FGXR6** · 22-01-2024, 02:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FTE217

Funny peoples tastes always vary.
I actually liked the Crewman - when I kept seeing one lowered and staggered wheels they looked fat.
I was jealous Ford didn't have and the Cross 8 might I add.
I've had/have no luv for the Terri as good as it is for the many who bought and rave about it, having the I6 was the winner but just saying I liked the Holden variants as mentioned.

See, I actually liked the concept of the Subaru Outback esq Adventra, and it was a V8! But that's my preference in cars, and it would seem most wanted that SUV look rather than the jacked-up wagon style Holden went with.

My issue with the Adventra was that it was Holden being lazy and thinking that the adoring public would cover that up by buying the thing. And it failed. The Crewman was also lazy and bodged together in a sloppy way.

I had an ex-Holden engineer tell me that you shouldn't by an Adventra, that they were terrible. And that says it all.

lra · 22-01-2024, 03:01 PM

Ref the R5 .............saw it at the Sydney Motor Show, and put it on a future shopping list.

Seemed to be better proportioned / sporty than the later Crewman, but I have no complaints about my AWD Crewman, which has taken us touring in many places and never been an abused tradie's car.

Stuffed if I know why Ford didn't build it ........... maybe others may know the ins and outs, like the US HQ masters giving it the thumbs down death sign.

**DFB FGXR6** · 22-01-2024, 03:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lra

Ref the R5 .............saw it at the Sydney Motor Show, and put it on a future shopping list.

Seemed to be better proportioned / sporty than the later Crewman, but I have no complaints about my AWD Crewman, which has taken us touring in many places and never been an abused tradie's car.

Stuffed if I know why Ford didn't build it ........... maybe others may know the ins and outs, like the US HQ masters giving it the thumbs down death sign.

That question answered by my next post...................

**DFB FGXR6** · 22-01-2024, 03:53 PM

The R7 Raptor Concept.

When I say Raptor these days, many assume I would be referencing the Ranger or F-150. And as you can imagine, researching this post was somewhat difficult because the search engines kept showing me information on Ranger’s and F-150’s. But in 2001, Ford had a very different Raptor sitting in the spotlight, the R7 Raptor Concept!

Debuted at the 2002 Melbourne Motor Show, I’m going to be honest in saying that I loved the R7 Raptor! I was 16 at the time and was certainly more interested in the upcoming BA Falcon, but the superbly executed styling of the Raptor was captivating. Having seen it in person at the show, I loved the crisp headlights, those massive wheels and brakes and the overall smooth, well-proportioned physique. And that colour! A colour that would become a theme that permeated the whole car in the coming years. Compared to the SUV’s on the market at the time, the Raptor was considerably more car-like in its detailing and overall look. And while the real Territory that would arrive two years later was not as sharp, the concept was the same.

But what was the R7 Raptor? Simplistically, it was the culmination of 4 years research and development by the talented local Ford team. In many ways, this was the next generation of family cars in the making. And what ultimately consumed the traditional Aussie large sedan.

"We announced in November 2001 that we are investing $500 million in the production of an all-new vehicle line," said Ford Australia President, Mr Geoff Polites.

"The R7 is the first design iteration of what that new vehicle line may offer to the Australian public."

“The R7 was developed out of research we began back in 1998," said Mr Polites.

"We wanted to know what Australian customers were really looking for in a vehicle. What they liked and disliked, what their trigger points were, and then obviously how we could best meet their needs.

"Out of that research we determined that there was a growing band of consumers who were looking for something that wasn't currently being offered by an Australian manufacturer. Our new vehicle line is designed to cater for those consumers and R7 gives them the first look at the sort of vehicle they can expect when we go on sale in 2004."

The design was originally headed by Scott Strong, who also did the BA Falcon, but was handed over to Simon Butterworth to provide the finishing touches. Apparently, the Raptor concept was 90% production ready.

"We purposefully designed a vehicle that would deliver a complete message about its capabilities," said Ford Australia Design Director, Simon Butterworth.

"We've only hinted at the excellent interior accommodation with this concept, but it is superbly matched by the vehicle's assertive appearance, which also gives a hint of the superior driving dynamics that will be such a big part of the final production vehicle.

"The R7 was designed by one of our young designers, Mark Richardson, and he really took the brief we gave him – which was to create an exciting concept vehicle that would showcase one area of our future design direction – and delivered on it in spades."

"It was imperative that this vehicle fit into the rest of the Ford range," said Mr Butterworth. "We're creating something new and exciting but we also want it to be easily recognised as a Ford."

And that colour? Well, it was called Blood Orange, a colour that would later appear on the XR and FPV Falcon’s.

"Everything about the vehicle is designed to grab your attention," said Mr Butterworth. "The blood orange colour definitely does that!"

And the R7 name? That was a thinly veiled reference to the seven-seat layout, as opposed to the R5 which referred to the five-seater ute.

I’ve read countless stories about the R7 Raptor and its role in gaining approval with Detroit. I will openly say that I see no value in reading Wheels magazine these days, but back then, the publication had real substance and worth. Stories of Geof Polites and Co traveling to the Detroit with a scale model of the Raptor/Territory and them blowing the brass away with the thoroughness of their presentation is nothing but impressive. I truly believe anyone but Polites and his vision would have failed.

Some heavy hitters here...................(check out the Nokia brick strapped to Butterworth's pocket!)

I also remember reading a quote from a Ford US executive predicting very early on that the Territory would become the Ford Australia volume seller, and me thinking NO WAY! Well, slowly but surely, that in fact happened. Initially, there was a set ratio favoring the Falcon in terms of production volume. As Falcon declined, that ratio would gradually change to reflect what buyers were wanting. Also consider Territory was selling at higher RRP’s, it was also more profitable.

I’ll be clear in saying the Territory was never on my radar as something I wanted to buy, but then I wasn’t the target audience. We openly bag Ford for all their misgivings, but the Territory was a bullseye move that paved the way for the locally developed Ranger, which is also the benchmark in its segment. Credit where credit is due!

**Raptor** · 22-01-2024, 04:07 PM

Thanks for reviving those memories.

Whilst you may have only been 16 in 2002, I was 39 with two young kids and very much the demographic this was targeting. My forum username is no accident and predates both the F150 Raptor and the Ranger Raptor. I'd been following the development of what become the Territory from the very earliest media leaks. Raptor was the internal Ford codename prior to that Detroit approval, it then became known by the internal code E265 (see number plate on the model), before becoming the Territory upon release. The R7 was the similarly, but more outrageously styled concept car (based on a Explorer platform) displayed in 2002, the production ready Territory made its debut at the MMS in 2003 before going on sale in 2004 - which is when I got mine.

Another Ford also debuted at the 2003 MMS - the RTV ute (but it didn't have that name then).

Special times to be a Ford fan