The 1968 XT GT is one of the most underrated Ford Falcon GTs ever produced.
Not the first, nor the most famous, it nevertheless played a crucial role in the evolution of Ford Australia’s high-performance lineage. Better equipped, more refined, and globally tested, the XT GT marked a transition point—from raw power to serious long-distance capability.
A beautifully presented example of this rare GT will feature in Chicane Auctions’ upcoming July Classic Car Auction, and stands as a timely reminder of this model’s enduring appeal.
THE ICONIC FACTORY SHOWDOWN BEGINS
The 1968 Hardie-Ferodo 500 at Bathurst was the first time factory-supported teams from Ford and General Motors went head-to-head at Mount Panorama, both fielding V8-powered weapons. Ford brought the XT GT; Holden the 327ci Monaro GTS.
The race would be a turning point—but not in Ford’s favour. Holden filled the top three positions. Ford’s factory Firth-prepared factory XT GT driven by Fred Gibson and Bo Seton was performing very strongly and dominating in the lead for most of the race, before a rock pierced the radiator, overheating the engine and ending their race… and as they say, that’s racing.
A little known fact is Ford also entered an Automatic version of the XT GT, driven by Jim McKeown / Barry Martin – entry 7D, to show the public how strong the transmission was. Sadly, it also suffered mechanical failure. (not the transmission)
FALCONS TAKE ON THE WORLD
The XT GT’s most impressive result came not at Bathurst, but on the global stage. In the 1968 London to Sydney Marathon, a gruelling 16,000km rally across Europe, Asia and Australia, Ford entered three XT GTs. All three finished in the top ten—third, sixth and eighth outright—and claimed the prestigious Teams Prize. No other Falcon GT or HO model ever matched this level of endurance rally success.
This result proved the XT GT’s strength and durability beyond Australian circuits and established the Falcon as a world-class performance platform.
AUSTRALIA’S GRAND TOURER
The XT GT debuted in March 1968 as a refinement of the XR GT that preceded it.
The GT was distinguished by GT driving lights, black rear panel, new full-width grille, rectangular indicators mounted inside round tail lights, 14×6-inch wheels, heavier suspension, and a front anti-roll bar. A limited-slip differential was standard, and for the first time, buyers could select an optional three-speed automatic transmission alongside the four-speed manual.
While retaining the Falcon’s signature silhouette, the XT GT was the only GT model powered by the 302ci Windsor V8. This engine produced 230 horsepower (172kW) and 310 lb-ft of torque (420Nm) a small but notable increase over the XR’s 289ci unit.
The XT GT could reach 200 km/h, sprint from 0–100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, and cover the quarter mile in 15.8 seconds.
BALANCED PERFORMANCE AND REFINEMENT
The XT GT’s interior combined sporting intent with subtle luxury, featuring reclining bucket seats, GT-specific door trims, and faux woodgrain and GT badge on the dashboard. Quality instrumentation included a 140mph speedometer, 6000rpm tachometer, and auxiliary gauges to monitor engine vitals. Seat belts were standard, and insulation was improved for quieter highway cruising, making the XT GT more refined than its predecessor.
Ford marketed the XT GT heavily, linking it to the Mustang and highlighting its increased power and touring ability. Many period advertisements featured wild horses and bold performance claims, anchoring the GT as both a family car and a high-speed tourer.
LEGACY AND COLLECTABILITY
Just 1,480 XT GTs were produced—1,163 manuals and 317 automatic. While it didn’t enjoy outright Bathurst success, it remains the only Falcon GT model to finish top ten in the London to Sydney Marathon and claim international endurance honours.
Compared to the raw XR or more aggressive Phase models that followed, the XT GT is known for its balanced ride, comfortable cruising, and mature driving feel. Many collectors today regard it as one of the most usable and best-driving early GTs.
OFFERED FOR SALE – CHICANE AUCTIONS JULY AUCTION
A striking example of the XT GT will feature in the Chicane Auctions July 2025 Classic Car Auction. Finished in its original factory hue, restored with care and precision, and showcasing all the correct period details, this car stands as one of the most desirable surviving examples of this pivotal model.
More details, photography, and inspection bookings are available at www.chicaneauctions.com.au or call the Showroom Office on (03) 9580 7369.