Ford XA Falcon RPO83 Coupe Yellow Fire

Early in 1972 Ford released the XA GT Falcon in sedan and hardtop versions. It was the first Falcon to be totally designed by Australians, as production of the Falcon in the US had ceased some 18 months earlier. The XA was the biggest Falcon yet, with the boldest styling, designed for wider appeal with its less aggressive look and creature comforts.
Ford built 891 hardtops between July 1972 and September 1973, including the construction of 129 RPO83 coupes. The GT Specials - that’s their official title - were Regular Production Option 83 on Ford’s options list for Falcon GTs.
The biggest change on the RPO83 to the normal GT was the fitting of a huge 780cfm (cubic feet per minute) four barrel Holley carburettor and (hidden away under the V-banks) fabricated exhaust extractors. These added 30-40bhp to the existing 300bhp for much improved performance. Other changes included a modified sump with additional baffles and a manual choke. They used most of the bolt-on engine components intended for the Phase IV GT-HO - the “Supercar” killed by political and public pressure before it went into production in 1972. The new model could run the quarter in the high 14s and had a top speed of around 140mph (225kph).

Features

The comprehensive front end features engraved headlights and indicators, as well as the finely moulded front grille with GT badge.

Argent painted steel 12 slot rims with GT centres are an outstanding feature on this model with their chrome trim rings together with the red wall tyres.

Interior includes XA sports steering wheel, full dash instrumentation and components.

Fully-reclining high-backed bucket seats with fabric seat belts and individual buckles for that realistic appearance.

The heart of the beast is the 5.8L V8. Sitting on top is the air cleaner with high performance sticker. The bonnet hinges are etched metal for realism and smooth operation.

The boot interior looks just like the original, with rubber floor mat, filler pipe, boot hinging plates and jack instruction decal on the inside of the boot lid.

Superb chassis detail with working front suspension and steering. The springs, sway-bar, wheel rims and brake discs feature nicely.

The working leaf spring rear suspension is well engineered and operates smoothly. The suspension bolts and finned rear brake drums are well detailed.

Item includes certificate with individual production number.