Sporty AU
There has long been an argument that while Ford’s XR8 series has supplied plenty of brute force, it’s the XR6 which has tended to be a better balanced package. In any case, the straight sixes in normally-aspirated and turbo form gained plenty of fans across several years and generations.
In a feature on the V8s, Cliff Chambers said the following about the AU II platform: “Changes to the AU II’s body structure, suspension and brakes improved the range and produced a more viable platform for performance models. Most significant were new engine mounts and a laminated fire-wall that dramatically reduced vibration.
“The distinctive four-light front remained but with the AU II came a neat two-bar grille and scalloped bonnet. The bumper/air-dam was modified to include additional air-ducts, while a single-deck spoiler and reshaped tail-lights helped disguise a rear-end that had originally caused much controversy.”
This 2000 XR6 is running a four-speed auto with a relatively low 86,000km on the odo and is said to be in exceptional shape. It’s in Tasmania at $21,000.