1964 Ford Falcon Sprint V8 convertible (LHD)

Ford based the legendary Mustang on the little-known Falcon Sprint, a compact sold in either hardtop or convertible guise between 1963 and 1965, with plenty of performance on tap thanks to the introduction of a powerful new small-block V8. The 260-cid engine was the only power option for the 1964 Sprint although buyers could choose from three different transmissions, including a three-speed column-shift manual, four-speed floor-mounted manual or two-speed auto. Built on a Falcon platform revised to handle the extra power, there was also heavy-duty suspension, beefed-up 10-inch drums along with additional exterior brightwork and unique ‘Sprint’ lettering. The interior featured a centre-mounted 6000 rpm tacho, unique 16-inch woodgrain steering wheel, deluxe bucket seats up front along with a centre console housing a neat storage compartment. A team of Falcon Sprints were sent to Europe, prepared for rallying by Alan Mann’s shop in England and put on a fine showing during the 1963 season much to the surprise of the local opposition. In fact, if it hadn’t been for the introduction of the Mustang mid-way through 1964, to bolster sales, the Falcon Sprint would enjoy a much higher profile today. It is nonetheless regarded as genuinely collectible in Ford circles, partly due to the small production run.