The 1971 Ford Falcon GTHO Phase III was an Australian muscle car inspired by American muscle cars of the late 60s and early 70s. It was one of the most powerful and iconic cars to be produced in Australia, and is still revered by car enthusiasts today. In this 1971 Ford Falcon GTHO Phase III review, we will delve into the history of the car, its unique features and design elements, its impact on the Australian motoring industry, and its lasting legacy in the automotive world.
History:
The Ford Falcon was first introduced in Australia in 1960 and was designed to be a family car that would meet the demands of Australian families. However, in the late 60s and early 70s, there was a growing demand for high-performance vehicles that could compete with American muscle cars. In response to this demand, Ford Australia introduced the Falcon GTHO in 1969, which was a high-performance version of the Falcon.
The Phase III GTHO was introduced in 1971, and was the most powerful Australian muscle car ever produced. It was powered by a 5.8-liter V8 engine that produced 380 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, which was mated to a four-speed manual transmission. The car could accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds and had a top speed of 142 mph. It was also fitted with improved suspension, brakes, and aerodynamics, which made it one of the best handling cars of its time.
Design:
The design of the Phase III GTHO was inspired by American muscle cars of the late 60s and early 70s. It featured a long hood and a short rear deck, which gave it a sporty and aggressive look. The car was available in several colours, including the iconic Wild Violet, which has become synonymous with the GTHO. It also had a black-out bonnet treatment, rear deck spoiler, and unique stripes that ran along the side of the car.
The interior of the car was also unique, and featured a wood-rimmed steering wheel, sports instrumentation, and high-back bucket seats. The car also had improved sound insulation, which made it more comfortable for long drives.
Impact:
The Phase III GTHO had a significant impact on the Australian motoring industry, and is still revered today as one of the most iconic Australian cars of all time. It was a symbol of Australia’s ability to produce world-class high-performance vehicles, and it paved the way for other Australian muscle cars that would follow.
The GTHO also had a cultural impact, and it became a symbol of Australian identity and pride. It was often seen in Australian movies and television shows, and it was even featured on an Australian postage stamp in 2010.
Legacy:
The legacy of the Phase III GTHO is still felt today, and it is considered one of the most valuable and sought-after Australian cars in the world. Only 300 GTHO Phase III’s were produced, and they are now worth around $500,000 AUD,with the record Lloyds auction sale of a “as new” vehicle going under the hammer for $1.4m in 2021.
The GTHO also inspired other Australian muscle cars, such as the Holden Monaro and the Chrysler Valiant Charger, and it helped to establish Australia as a producer of high-performance vehicles.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the 1971 Ford Falcon GTHO Phase III was an iconic Australian muscle car that had a significant impact on the Australian motoring industry and on Australian culture. Its unique features and design elements set it apart from other cars of its time, and its performance capabilities were unmatched in Australia. The GTHO’s legacy is still felt today, and it has inspired generations of Australian car enthusiasts and collectors.
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