Ford Falcon XK-XP
The car that launched an Australian dynasty and nearly ended it just as quickly.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 18.7 s
- Top speed
- 85 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$20k
About the Ford Falcon XK-XP
The XK Falcon was the first Australian-built Ford Falcon, launched in 1960 to challenge the dominant Holden FB. Based closely on the American Falcon, it featured modern styling and a more powerful engine than its rivals, but its US-spec suspension proved fragile on harsh Australian roads. Frequent ball-joint failures and transmission issues initially tarnished its reputation, forcing Ford to implement rapid engineering upgrades. Despite these early setbacks, the XK established the Falcon nameplate, which would remain a cornerstone of Australian motoring for over five decades.
Ford Falcon XK-XP specs
The Ford Falcon XK-XP produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 187 Nm (138 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 18.7 seconds and has a top speed of 85 mph (137 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Falcon |
| Generation | XK-XP |
| Trim | XK |
| Years | 1960–1966 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Australia |
| Production | About 68,413 built |
| Engine | 2.4-litre inline-6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,365 cc (2.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 4,200 rpm |
| Torque | 187 Nm (138 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 18.7 s |
| Top speed | 85 mph (137 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,103 kg (2,432 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 82 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Falcon XK-XP worth?
A typical Ford Falcon XK-XP is estimated to be worth $5,300 – $20,000 (about £4,000 – £15,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Falcon XK-XP rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Falcon XK-XP is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 37 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Falcon XK-XP fun facts
- The XK Falcon was the first Australian-made car to offer an automatic transmission, debuting a year before Holden.
- Ford Australia's managing director Charles Smith famously cabled 'Cancel Zephyr' after seeing the Falcon prototype in the US, shifting the brand's local future to American designs.
- Early reliability issues were so severe that Ford had to introduce heavy-duty suspension components just seven months after the car's launch.
