1970 Ford Falcon XW GT-HO Phase II Review

By: Cliff Chambers, Guy Allen, Photography by: Alistair Brook

Date: 31.08.2018

Acknowledged even by owners as the least tractable of the ‘Phase’ Falcons, it’s reasonable to guess that Phase IIs bought as regular transport didn’t fulfill that role for very long.

Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase II 

The Phase II did boast a decent competition pedigree though, being the first 351-engined Fords to record consistent race wins and a Bathurst victory. Those achievements alone plus their status as the least common of the XW-XY HOs should have exerted a greater influence on value and sent them considerably closer to Phase III money. Buyer reluctance until quite recently to spend up big on a Phase II is inexplicable.

Then came 2017 and two reported sales of exceptional cars in unique colours. Both sold at or above $500,000 which sets a new but not indelible benchmark for cars in superior condition. Those of lesser quality will still sell at $150-180,000 less.

THE FACTS

By the time the Phase II rolled into production, the HO series had already been through two iterations: the Phase I with the Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase II Windsor engine, and the ‘Phase I.5’ with a Cleveland. There were however significant differences between a 1.5 and II cars and their Cleveland powerplants.

For the Phase II, Ford opted for a giant 750cfm Holley carburettor, twin ignition points, solid lifters, stronger conrods - it’s a long list of upgrades.

Matched to that was a comprehensive strengthening of the driveline, all the way through to the diff.

Brakes too were upgraded, while the entire chassis was reviewed. Ford’s power claims for this and its successor were modest, but it was clear the Phase II was a more race-oriented piece of kit than its predecessor. Thanks to musclecarsales.com.au

GT-HO PHASE II TIMELINE

Average values

1985 $13,400
1990 $22,600
1995 $25,000

2000 $34,500
2007 $175,000
2012 $170,000
2017 $330,000

(1985 & 1990 Values From 'Making Money From Collectable Cars' Marque Publishing Company, 1995-2017 Values From the Unique Cars Value Guide & Unique Cars Muscle Car Guide)

TOTAL BUILT: 287

1970 Ford XW Falcon Phase II specs

Engine Cleveland 5752cc pushrod V8
Power 225kW+ @ 5400rpm
Torque 515Nm @ 3400rpm
Gearbox 4-speed all synchro or 3-speed auto
Brakes Discs (f), drum (r)
Suspension Independant coil springs(f), live axle, leaf springs (r)
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h – 6.4sec
Top Speed – 220km/h

Unique Cars magazine Value Guides

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