Ford Falcon: Collectible Classic Car or Just a Necessary Mustang Predecessor?
The Ford Falcon paved the way for the most famous name in modern and classic car culture: the Mustang. However, the model is more than just a footnote in the book of Mustang. So, what’s the deal with the Ford Falcon, and did it truly disappear after the 1970 model?
Is the Ford Falcon a Mustang?
While the 1963 Ford Falcon Sprint was mechanically similar to the epically famous 1964 ½ Ford Mustang, the two aren’t the same car. However, the North American Falcon didn’t continue much further than the inception of the Mustang, ceasing in 1970.
Still, while there’s little mechanical difference between the Falcon Sprint and the Mustang, the Falcon was available as a four-door sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible. In that capacity, fans could argue that the Falcon was a more versatile vehicle than the beloved Mustang. However, the Mustang’s popularity was undeniable, and it overshadowed the sales performance of the Falcon.
Furthermore, unlike the Mustang’s relentless span over seven generations, the North American Falcon spanned just three generations over 10 years.
| First-generation Falcon | 1960-1963 |
| Second-generation Falcon | 1964-1965 |
| Third-generation Falcon | 1966-1970 |
Do they make Ford Falcons anymore?
While North American Ford Falcons haven’t been in steady production since 1970, the nameplate enjoyed a much longer and more recent presence in other markets. For instance, Ford Australia produced the Falcon in different body types from 1960 to 2016.
Moreover, while the North American Falcon never received the fastback muscle treatment like the big-body Mustang Mach 1 or Chevrolet Chevelle, the Australian Falcon stretched out and muscled up to rival the Holden Commodore.
How much is a Ford Falcon worth?
The North American 1960 to 1970 Ford Falcon has an average value of $24,860, per Classic.com. However, some meticulously restored or restomod examples can sell for over $100,000.
Moreover, the larger engine options often demand higher auction values, especially if the vehicle is numbers-matching. For instance, Hagerty reports that a 1970 Falcon with a 429 cubic-inch Super Cobra Jet V8 has a good-condition value of around $57,700. Still, a solid Falcon in decent shape could be a compliant classic car for a hot rod, cruiser, or restomod build.
Can you get a Ford Falcon in the US?
Beyond buying a classic pre-1970 Ford Falcon, fans can navigate import regulations to bring a right-hand drive Australian Falcon to American shores. Moreover, the FG Falcons packed V8 power, not unlike the Mustang GTs of the North American and post-2015 European markets.
What do you think of the Falcon? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
