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1997 Ford EL Falcon GT review (video)

The 1997 Ford EL Falcon GT is part of a lineage synonymous with Australian motoring heritage, and also remains as a testament to the glory days of Ford’s local manufacturing capability.

It was introduced as a celebration of Ford’s 75th anniversary in Australia back in 1996, as a strictly limited-build muscle sedan that not only carries the legacy of its GT predecessors but also brings to the table a unique blend of raw power, comforting luxury and flamboyant aesthetics.

As a halo model, the EL GT had big shoes to fill, bridging the gap between the performance-focused Falcon XR6 and XR8 of the day, and the more luxurious Fairmont and Fairmont Ghia on which it is based, while carrying the weight of the GT badge. The EL GT also had to fend off its fierce key rivals; the HSV GTS and legendary GTS-R.

Did it succeed? Well, prices started from around $69,500 back in the day. That, according to an online inflation calculator, is about $140,000 in today’s money – a lot for a vehicle that shares platforms with a taxi. However, all examples were sold. That’s a win as far as we’re concerned.

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT-taillights

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT: Specifications

Engine: 4.9-litre V8
Output: 200kW@4700rpm / 420Nm@3700rpm
Gearbox: Four-speed auto
Drive type: Rear-wheel drive, Hydratrak LSD
Wheels: F & R: 17×8.5, 245/40
ANCAP: N/A
Tare weight: 1683kg
Power-to-weight: 8.41:1 (kg:kW)
Fuel tank/Fuel type: 68L/95 RON
0-60km/h: 4.03 seconds*
0-100km/h: 7.99 seconds*
60-110km/h: 5.29 seconds*
1/4 mile: 15.90 seconds at 146.9km/h*
Max acceleration: 0.873g*
Decibel at idle: 48*
Peak decibel at 60-100km/h: 88*
Starting price when new: $69,500

*Figures as tested by Driving Enthusiast on the day. Manufacturers’ claims may be different

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT: Interior & packaging

Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a cabin that exudes a sense of purpose and exclusivity. The leather-trimmed seats, embossed with the GT logo, provide a cradled yet comfortable seating position that hints at the performance capabilities lurking beneath the bonnet.

Ford was quite bold with this interior package, actually. Because before this came along, Falcon interiors were pretty conservative. Sporty for the XR models, but not outrageous. This was outrageous in its day, with exotic (at the time) Alcantara trimmings, two-tone leather, and huge bolsters for the seats.

Of course, it is very comfortable as well. The back seat has the appeal of a big cushy lounge; you just want to fall into it at the end of a long, hard day. Special sculpting for the rear bench inspired by the front bucket seats really sets it apart from any other Falcon as well.

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT-auto interior

The dashboard layout is a straightforward, button-filled, driver-centric affair. Having a small climate control panel right next to the steering wheel is genius – modern cars should take note. There is very little distraction once you get used to where each button and function is positioned, allowing you to keep your eyes up and on/near the road.

Classic analog gauges provide clear and concise information, while the centre console is home to the power window switches and a handy storage box with an Alcantara-wrapped arm rest.

The materials used throughout the cabin, from the soft-touch plastics to the leather accents, speak of a quality build that was ahead of its time in the late ’90s for an Aussie-made car. Ford’s decision to include features such as climate control, an electric antenna, and a premium Alpine audio system with a six-stacker in the boot highlight Ford’s commitment to blending luxury with performance.

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT-seats

Despite its performance pedigree, the EL GT doesn’t compromise on practicality. The boot space is generous, easily accommodating the needs of a weekend getaway or a spirited drive through the countryside.

The attention to detail extends to a fully-carpeted boot area, as well as small touches such as the GT-branded floor mats and the subtle woodgrain inserts on the door panels. All of which add an air of elegance to the overall package.

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT-rear seats

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT: Powertrain & handling

At the heart of the 1997 Ford EL Falcon GT lies the venerable 4.9-litre (4942cc) Windsor V8 engine. However, Ford, with the help of Tickford, retuned and rebuilt the engine to maximise performance. It uses SVO GT40 heads, head-duty valve springs, a bigger intake system and throttle body, and proper extractors contributing to a bellowing V8 soundtrack.

Output is rated at 200kW and 420Nm, which was quite high in its day. The V8’s burble is an unmistakable, deep, throaty rumble that turns heads and stirs the soul. Paired with the no-cost optional four-speed automatic transmission, the GT offers an adaptive shift pattern and excellent long-legged, highway-eating capability.

The suspension setup, featuring a combination of MacPherson struts at the front and a Watts linkage at the rear, provides a balanced ride that manages to be both firm and comfortable. Falcons were typically pretty soft, and this does lean more on the soft side rather than hardcore rigidity. But it suits the ‘GT’ character. After all, it is a Grand Tourer.

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT-wheels

The steering is precise, with just the right amount of weight to give the driver confidence, and of course it feels totally mechanical and provides real-time feedback unlike the modern artificial setups of today’s cars.

It tackles corners with aplomb, maintaining composure even when pushed hard. It does weigh 1683kg, but it feels like it weighs around 1400kg, partly due to clean steering feel. The inclusion of ABS as standard further enhances the driving experience, providing an added layer of safety without compromising unfiltered feedback. There is no traction control or stability control here.

Acceleration is brisk, but it needs time to build momentum. And when it does, it’s like a train, just steaming forward relentlessly. On a private road with the Vbox, we clocked this immaculate auto example across 0-100km/h in 7.99 seconds, and the quarter mile in 15.90 seconds at 146.9km/h.

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT-engine

While this might not seem blisteringly fast by today’s standards, it was more than respectable in the late 1990s. The real magic, however, lies in the mid-range torque, where the V8 engine truly shines. Overtaking manoeuvres are dispatched with ease, accompanied by an intimidating, thunderous note. Kick-down is very impressive, instantly bolting back a gear and powering forward. It’s lots of fun.

Overall, the combination of power, handling, and styling wow-factor makes the EL Falcon GT a well-rounded performance sedan. It is sad that these friendly giants are no longer made, let alone here in Australia. Let’s just hope fans and enthusiasts continue to collect and cherish the remaining examples well into the future.

Special thanks goes out to the owner of this example for lending us a drive.

1997 Ford EL Falcon GT: Video

Brett Davis

Brett started out as a motor mechanic but eventually became frustrated working on cars that weren't his. He then earned a degree in journalism and scored a job at Top Gear Australia back in 2008, and then worked at Zoom/Extreme Performance magazines, CarAdvice, and started PerformanceDrive/PDriveTV in 2011 with Josh Bennis, and ran it for 12 years. He's now the owner and managing editor here at Driving Enthusiast.

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