1980 Ford XD Falcon Sundowner 302 Panel Van (Project)

Description

Ford replacement for the XA-XC range of Falcons was launched in 1979 and unlike Holden, who downsized with the Commodore in response to the fuel crisis, the new XD remained a traditional large Australian sedan.  This proved a wise decision, with the XD-XF family of Falcons easily outselling the Commodore for most of the 1980s.  The XD was available in three different trim levels, the base GL, the Fairmont and Fairmont Ghia and could be ordered with two different six-cylinder (3.3 and 4.1-litre) and two V8 (4.9 and 5.8-litre) engines under the bonnet.  A new alloy cylinder head was jointly developed for the sixes with Honda and found its way into production in June 1980, resulting in improved fuel economy and better low down torque.  The restyled body, clearly influenced by Ford's European arm, was a considerable improvement over the outgoing XC, with more glass and weight-saving plastics, particularly the bumper bars.  A station wagon was available on a stretched wheelbase, also used for the luxury Fairlane and LTD derivatives, the latter boasting American-influenced styling, rear window louvres, rear headrests, plenty of electric gadgets and the option of full leather seats.  A large part of Ford's success was due to the full range of commercials offered - while rival Holden soldiered on with the ageing WB Kingswood, Ford's new utilities and panel vans proved hugely popular with tradies.  Right at the tail end of the panel van craze, Ford offered the limited edition Sundowner, with a dressed up interior, sports wheels, driving lights, alloy wheels, spoilers and special graphics.