>>Ford BA Falcon

Ford BA Falcon

Ford BA Falcon

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company of Australia
Production	September 2002 – October 2005
Assembly	Campbellfield, Victoria, Australia
Predecessor	Ford AU Falcon
Successor	Ford BF Falcon
Class	Full-size car
Body style	2-door ute 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Platform	Ford EA169
Engine	Straight-6 4.0 L Barra E-Gas 4.0 L Barra 182 4.0 L Barra 245T V8 5.4 L Barra 220 5.4 L Boss 260
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 6-speed manual
Wheelbase	2,829 mm (111.4 in)
Length	4,916 mm (193.5 in)–5,053 mm (198.9 in)
Width	1,864 mm (73.4 in)
Height	1,444 mm (56.9 in)
Curb weight	1,620 kg (3,600 lb)–1,740 kg (3,800 lb)
Related	Ford Fairlane Ford Fairmont Ford Territory

The Ford BA Falcon is a full-size car, produced by the Ford Motor Company of Australia between September 2002 and October 2005. The exterior styling of the BA was a substantial revision of that used for the preceding AU model, every panel except the 4 door skins was newly designed. A new independent rear suspension setup was fitted to all sedan derivatives, and the engine and transmission received extensive upgrades. In late 2004, Ford introduced a Mark II update, bringing subtle styling and mechanical changes,and twelve months after that, replaced the BA with the BF. The model's market share briefly topped that of its chief competitor, the Holden Commodore on two occasions, but have failed to match those of the record-breaking EL Falcon.In the final months of 2002, the BA model received the influential Wheels Car of the Year award,breaking a 36-year drought.The BA also won four consecutive Australia's Best Cars awards, spanning three years.

Development and design

The BA model represented a A$ 500 million investment, and 24,000 hours of engine and durability testing. Germany’s Nürburgring test track was used for some suspension testing. The anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control were calibrated in Sweden, as well as Australia.

XR8 (MkII) interior fitted with the premium sound package and optional "Luxury Pack".

Exterior design

Exterior styling was led by design director Scott Hamilton, then chief designer for Ford Australia. After Scott departed from operations at Ford in 2001, Simon Overland took over this role.Ford Australia's intention was to create a European influence for the vehicle, whereby most aspects of the AU's "New Edge" design would be revised. The result was a significant update of the existing AU body shell, rather than a completely new design.The BA model introduced an integrated aerial in the car’s rear window, instead of the conventional retractable antenna. The aerial placement improved the vehicle's aerodynamics and ended the breakage issues that had plagued the retractable type found on previous models. Interestingly, interference from the engine did not affect the radio reception.

Interior design

From the inside, the "New Edge" interior of the AU was discarded in favour of a contemporary style, based upon European designs. Marcus Hotblack, the director of interior design, focused on improving user friendliness. The resulting design was an ergonomically-correct interior command centre, highlighted by the satin-finish centre console. The theme was further extended by the audio and cruise control switches' location on the steering wheel.

2002–2004 Ford BA Falcon Futura sedan

A prominent feature of the new command centre was a large liquid crystal display which displayed information regarding the air conditioning unit and sound system. Buyers could opt for a premium sound package, standard on the Fairmont Ghia, which included a full-colour screen.Ventilation outlets were larger than those of previous models, resulting in a cabin that could be more effectively and efficiently heated or cooled. Another change was the headlamp switch, which was now located on the end of the turn signal stalk for easier reach.

Interior colour schemes varied from model to model, but shared a common design approach. The entry-level XT featured a black plastic panel for the upper half of the dashboard, with either a black, charcoal, or beige panel for the lower half. Not all variants offered the distinctive colour palette; the sports variants could not be optioned with the two-tone interior.

Engine and mechanicals

Powerplants consisted of both straight-sixes and V8s, with the entry-level Barra 182 six-cylinder being a significant improvement over the AU Falcon's six, with a gain of 25 kilowatts (34 hp) of power for a total of 182 kilowatts (244 hp). The Barra 182 can also take advantage of higher octane fuels, where a small increase of torque can be achieved. The 156-kilowatt (209 hp) LPG-only Barra E-Gas engine was offered as an option on lower specification models.

LPG-powered variants of the BA range are commonly used as taxis throughout Australia.

A turbocharged variant of the Barra engine was introduced in a new XR6 Turbo model and produced 240 kilowatts (320 hp) of power.A 5.4 litre V8 replaced the Windsor engine of the AU. The new V8 was a modified version of Ford's North American Modular V8 available in two variants: the Barra 220 generating 220 kilowatts (300 hp) and a 260 kilowatts (350 hp) Boss 260.The new engine was smoother, more fuel efficient, and quieter than the engine it replaced.

Engine

Engine	Power	Torque
4.0 L Barra 182 I6	182 kW (244 hp)	380 N·m (280 lb·ft)
4.0 L Barra E-Gas I6	156 kW (209 hp)	372 N·m (274 lb·ft)
4.0 L Barra 240T I6	240 kW (320 hp)	450 N·m (330 lb·ft)
5.4 L Barra 220 V8	220 kW (300 hp)	470 N·m (350 lb·ft)
5.4 L Boss 260 V8	260 kW (350 hp)	500 N·m (370 lb·ft)

Two transmissions were available for the BA—a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual, both floor-mounted. The automatic unit featured Sequential Sports Shift, a first for the Falcon nameplate in Australia. Utility body styles were also available with an optional column-mounted automatic shifter (without Sequential Sports Shift) in lieu of the floor-mounted system also offered. The new Control-Blade independent rear suspension (IRS) fitted to all sedans—first used in development of the Ford Focus and the Jaguar X-Type— was superior to the optional double wishbone IRS suspension used on AU sedans, and was cheaper. However, it was heavier than the previous live rear axle used for base models, and the change contributed to the base model XT sedan's 130 kilogram (287 lb) weight increase from the previous model. The wagons and utilities retained the leaf spring live axle rear suspension of the AU wagon and utility; consequently, they did not gain as much weight as the sedan.

The BA Falcon was also smoother on the road, with increased towing capabilities from previous models. Fuel consumption in the Barra 182 was measured at 12.5 L/100 km (18.8 mpg_-US) for city driving and 8.2 L/100 km (29 mpg_-US) for highway driving. These numbers were government figures, measured indoors using a dynamometer. Real-world testing has shown that an extra 12% is actually consumed.

Safety

Passenger safety was a key design aspect for the Ford engineers. Anti-lock brakes were standard on all models; electronic brakeforce distribution was also standard on most variants. The addition of traction control for higher trim levels helped to prevent loss of traction. On top of this, dual front airbags were a standard fitment across the range; with side-impact airbags being equipped on higher luxury levels such as the Fairmont. In a crash safety assessment conducted by ANCAP, the BA model scored 27.27 out of a possible 37 points, giving a rating of four out of five stars.

Specification levels

Australian sales

Year	Units sold
2002 (October–December)	17,500
2003	73,172
2004	65,384
2005 (January–September)	39,967
Total	196,023

Falcon XT

Marketed largely towards the fleet industry, the entry-level Falcon XT sold in the most numbers.Featuring the base Barra 182 six-cylinder engine, air conditioning, front power windows, and five-speed manual, with the choice of a four-speed automatic, the XT was sold in sedan and station wagon body types.Judges of the Australia's Best Cars awards crowned the XT Best Family Car in 2002, and again in 2004,with the Futura receiving the award in 2003.

Futura

The semi-luxury Futura variant was heavily based on the XT, and marketed towards families. Futura models gained cruise control, 16 inch alloy wheels, rear power windows and full body-coloured side-view mirrors and side-protection moldings. But, side-impact airbags and power adjustable pedals were only available as options.

Falcon XR6

The eight-cylinder XR8 muscle sedan, produces 260 kilowatts (350 hp) of power.

2004–2005 Ford BA II Falcon RTV utility

Building on the features of the XT, the sports orientated Falcon XR6 was at one point considered not to be released. This was because of the new XR6 Turbo model, however, Ford overturned this decision before production. A specifically designed body kit distinguished the XR6 from other variants, except for the XR6 Turbo and XR8 which shared the sports bodywork. The naturally aspirated engine was identical to the engine used on the XT and Futura, and the five-speed manual transmission came as standard.

The newly introduced Falcon XR6 Turbo (XR6T) received critical acclaim at launch, and the Australia's Best Car's judges even awarded it the Best Sports car under $57,000 in 2002.At heart visually identical to the XR6, the turbocharged derivative gained extra features, with the additional turbocharger boosting the car's total power output to 240 kilowatts (320 hp). The turbocharger is a Garrett GT35/40 unit.

Falcon XR8

Being the flagship sports variant, the XR8 credited specially tuned sports suspension, seating trim displaying the "XR" insignia, 17 inch wheels and the new 5.4 litre Boss 260 engine, outputting 30 percent more power the previous model.

Fairmont

The Fairmont model opened up the luxury sector for the Falcon nameplate. Externally, the Fairmont could be distinguished from the other BA models with its 16-inch alloy wheelsand grey mesh grille with chrome surround. Some of the standard features included traction control and dual-zone climate control air conditioning, an analogue clock on the top centre console stack, wood grain highlights,and velour upholstery.AutoLamp automatic headlights, which turn off or on depending on surrounding environmental conditions, were now standard on the Fairmont model.In addition to this, the Fairmont also received illuminated footwells. The basic mechanical setup carried over from the XT, although buyers could opt for the Barra 220 V8 engine.

Fairmont Ghia

By far the most expensive variant in the BA range, the Fairmont Ghia featured leather upholstery, wood grain highlights, full power options and a unique suspension assembly. The premium sound system, which incorporated a full-colour LCD screen, was standard, and the centre console stack was characterised by an analogue clock.Reverse parking sensors were available for the first time in the BA, standard on the Ghia. The sensors feature an automatic turn-off function for use when towing a boat or trailer for example.

Falcon Ute

2002–2004 Ford BA Falcon XR6 utility

The BA series Falcon utility was introduced in October 2002 in six models guises.

• XL Cab Chassis
• XL Styleside
• XLS Cab Chassis
• XLS Styleside
• XR6 Styleside
• XR6 Turbo
• XR8: re-introduced to the range early in 2003 (last seen in the previous AU III series).
• RTV: was released in September 2003. The name "RTV" stood for "Rugged Terrain Vehicle" and featured an increased ride height, additional underbody protection, a lockable rear differential, a unique grille, flared guards and 16 inch alloy wheels. Originally dubbed "Hi-Ride" prior to release, in early 2003 Ford Australia held a competition to find a name for this variant, with "RTV" announced as the winning entrant in July.

Mk II

Ford released the Mk II (BAII) Falcon in October 2004 to maintain sales interest until the 2005 introduction of the BF update. Modifications included some cosmetic changes and a new six-speed Tremec T56 manual transmission replacing the five-speeder on XR6 Turbo and XR8 models. The Futura model gained power adjustable pedals, and side airbags, with a DVD entertainment system being offered on upmarket trim levels. The XR8 sedan variant also received the premium audio system.

Issues and criticism

Critics in the media noted BA's build quality faults, such as inconsistent gaps between trim sections and joints,although other commentators praised the interior design and craftsmanship. In the used car market, BA Falcons tend to suffer from poor depreciation rates, due to influxes of ex-fleet models entering the second-hand market and because of the cost of fuel.

>>Ford AU Falcon

Ford AU Falcon

Ford AU Falcon

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company of Australia
Also called	Ford AU Fairmont FTE TE50 FTE TS50
Production	September 1998 – September 2002
Assembly	Campbellfield, Victoria, Australia
Predecessor	Ford EL Falcon
Successor	Ford BA Falcon
Class	Full-size car
Body style	2-door utility 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon
Layout	FR layout
Platform	EA169
Engine	4.0 L Intech I6 4.0 L Intech Dedicated LPG I6 4.0 L Intech VCT  I6 5.0 L Windsor  V8 5.6 L Windsor V8
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Wheelbase	2,793 mm (110.0 in)–3,096 mm (121.9 in)
Length	4,907 mm (193.2 in)–5,077 mm (199.9 in)
Width	1,870 mm (74 in)–1,871 mm (73.7 in)
Height	1,870 mm (74 in)–1,871 mm (73.7 in)
Curb weight	1,437 kg (3,170 lb)–1,645 kg (3,630 lb)
Related	Ford AU Fairlane Ford AU LTD FTE TL50

The Ford AU Falcon and Fairmont are the first of the sixth generation series of the Ford Falcon, a full-size car produced by Ford Australia. Replacing the EL Falcon, the last of the fifth generation Falcons, the AU series launch in September 1998, being replaced in September 2002 by the BA range of Fords.

The AU sported a radically different design that was dubbed "New Edge", to attract the younger generation with its "out there" looks. Other changes included a 35 kg (77 lb) reduction in weight for the base car, 17.5 per cent stiffer bodyshell, and an eight per cent improvement in fuel consumption.

History of development

1998–2000 Ford AU Falcon Futura sedan

The AU Falcon was developed after considering proposals to replace the Falcon platform with one derived from an overseas model, such as the American Ford Taurus, European Ford Scorpio, or the Japanese Mazda 929. These were eliminated in favour of a substantial redesign of the Australian platform, due to concerns about towing, interior size, and local employment. Design started in 1994 and the program cost 700 million Australian Dollars before product launch. It was launched under the slogan "You've come a long way baby".The AU featured Ford's New Edge design style, and an optional IRS, for the first time on a Falcon. The IRS was a double wishbone design on an isolated subframe, standard fitment on the XR6 VCT, XR8 and Fairmont Ghia, and was an option on most other sedan models (although not with limited slip differential - this combination was reserved for IRS XR models).

Sales of the AU did not match those of the previous model, the EL Falcon, partly due to a lack of enthusiasm by customers for the New Edge styling, alteration of fleet sale pricing, and the long term decline in the market for large cars.

2000-2001 Ford AUII Falcon Futura

Series II and III

Many of these issues were addressed with the AU Series II (April 2000) and Series III (November 2001) updates, which brought with them minor styling changes that gave the cheaper models styling features from the Fairmont, a laminated firewall to reduce NVH and incremental power upgrades for the V8, among other things.

During this period the Windsor was phased out of production with the last being sent to Australia. These Windsors were then hand assembled by Tickford Engineering and turned into the most powerful normally aspirated EFI Windsor V8 made in the world. It was stroked to 5.6 litres and boasted 250 kW (335 hp) and 500 N·m (369 lb·ft) of torque. The six cylinder engine was not forgotten during this period, with the XR6 version receiving VCT, making 172 kW (231 hp) . The same engine, detuned to 168 kW (225 hp) through the use of a quieter exhaust system, was fitted to the Fairmont Ghia.

Specification levels

Ford AU Falcon XR6

Ford AU Falcon XR6

The base model AU Falcon was called the Forte, which was the replacement of the old GLi and was marketed to fleets and families. When new the car was priced at $30,690 AUD. Automatic transmission was standard.

The more 'up-spec' model was called the Falcon Futura and was also marketed to families. The Futura differed from the Forte in having a body coloured grille, ABS, cruise control, alloy wheels and a digital clock fitted in the centre console (Series I Only). The price of the car when new was $34,990.

A limited edition Falcon Classic model was released in June 1999. It was an independent model from the Forte and Futura which featured the AU Falcon Utility Vehicle's grille painted body colour, 'Classic' badging, alloy wheels, a low level spoiler, and a 'warm charcoal' interior. The price when new was $30,690.

The Ford Falcon S, for Sports, was designed as an entry-level sports edition, with added features such as a painted grille, alloy wheels, S decals on the rear quarters and bootlid, and a high level spoiler. The colour choices were limited to Hot Chilli Red, Liquid Silver, Dynamic White, Galaxy (Metallic Blue) and Silhouette (Black) and the car was a sedan only model.

The Fairmont was the entry level luxury model of the AU range. It had all of the qualities of the Futura but included extra features such as a honeycomb grille, a 80 second headlamp off delay, wood grain inserts, unique 15" wheels, dual horns, Fairmont badging on the boot lid, and an analogue clock. The Fairmont was offered in sedan and station wagon bodystyles. Above the Fairmont was the Fairmont Ghia, which was the highest non-performance specification model in the range. It had additional features that included unique wheels and more wood grain inserts. Fairmont & Fairmont Ghia models were not badged as Falcons.

The XR Series was the performance end of the range, comprising the XR6, XR6 VCT, XR6 VCT Sprint, and the XR8, which was the "hero" car of the range. All had the standard body kit that the XRs always have.

Utility

The AU Falcon utility vehicles range was launched in June 1999. It offered Falcon XL, XLS, XR6 and XR8 style side utility models, a cab-chassis model and a cab-chassis with factory fitted drop-side tray. The latter was the first tray utility vehicle that Ford Australia had produced for several years.

The body of the AU Falcon utility differed in design from the competing Holden Ute in that the cargo tray was separate from the cab, whereas the tray was an integral part of the body shell in the Holden. As a result, this allowed the rear to accept different after market body types, including tray decks, service bodies, and camper van shells. Unlike the sedan, the AU Falcon utility vehicles were very popular.

1999–2000 Ford AU Falcon XL Supercab utility

Ford AUII Falcon XR8 Ute

FTE T Series

2001–2002 FTE TE50 (T3) sedan

Towards the top end of the market were the T-Series models, the Falcon XR8 based TE50, the Fairmont Ghia based TS50 and the Fairlane based TL50. These were marketed under the FTE name,FTE being an acronym for Ford Tickford Experience, a joint venture between Ford Australia and Tickford. The FTE T Series models, which were produced from 1999 to 2002, featured hand-built engines with an engraved plaque bearing the name of the engine builder.

Motorsports

Paul Radisich and Glenn Seton, each driving a racing-modified XR8, came 4th and 5th in the 2000 V8 Supercar Championship Series. The car was runner up in the 2000 FAI 1000. Marcos Ambrose finished 3rd in the 2002 V8 Supercar Championship Series.

>>Ford Zephyr

Ford Zephyr

Ford Zephyr

Ford Zephyr Mark II Saloon
Manufacturer	Ford of Britain
Production	1950–1972
Assembly	Australia Dagenham, United Kingdom New Zealand Salisbury, Rhodesia (FMCR) South Africa
Predecessor	Ford Pilot
Successor	Ford Consul Ford Granada
Class	Full-size

The Ford Zephyr was a car manufactured by the Ford Motor Company in the United Kingdom. Between 1951 and 1972, it was sold as a more powerful six-cylinder saloon to complement the four-cylinder Ford Consul. From 1962 the Zephyr itself was offered in both four- and six-cylinder versions.

The Zephyr and its luxury variant, the Ford Zodiac which appeared in 1953, were the largest passenger cars in the British Ford range from 1951 till they were replaced in 1962 by a larger mk2 Ford Consul, Zephyr, and Zodiac.

History

The Mark I Ford Consul and Zephyr models were first displayed at the Earl's Court Motor Show in 1950. They were the first to use in mass production the MacPherson strut independent front suspension which is widely used today. Production began with the Consul on January 1, 1951. The Mark I model ran until 1956. From April 1956 the Mark II Consul, Zephyr, and Zodiac went on sale and were known as the Three Graces. The Mark II range was popular and finished its run in 1962, when from April that year the Mark III Zephyr 4, Zephyr 6 and Zodiac went on sale. The Consul name was dropped, the car's place in the Ford UK line-up being filled by the first four-cylinder Ford Zephyr. While the Mark II Zephyr and Zodiacs had shared the same body (the Consul had shorter front guards and bulkhead), the new Zodiac and Zephyrs launched in 1962 shared few body panels. With the Mark III, Ford finally sorted out problems that had beset previous models (Mark I axles and Mark II gearboxes were particular weaknesses) and the Mark III proved to be popular and durable of the range. The model sold at a rate equal to or better than the Mark II both in the UK and overseas, but was in production for a shorter time. During the last months of production, an up-market Executive version was added to the Mark III range. The Mk III range was discontinued in January 1966 and the completely new Zephyr / Zodiac Mark IV range was released in April 1966. This car's design anticipated the later Consul/Granada range with V-engines and independent rear suspension, but the development of the model was rushed and this reflected in its durability.

Although the Ford Zephyr never saw American production, a very limited amount were imported into the U.S. and the name itself has appeared on other American Ford-related cars. The first use of the Zephyr moniker was in 1936 with the Lincoln-Zephyr a smaller companion to the full sized Lincoln sedan sold at the time, followed in the early 1980s with the Mercury Zephyr, an upscale version of the Ford Fairmont, and the Lincoln Zephyr was resurrected began its second production run in 2006 with the name changed to the Lincoln MKZ.

Mark I

Zephyr Six (or Zephyr Mark I)

Ford Zephyr Six

Production	1951-1956 148,629 saloons and 4048 convertibles made.
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door estate (conversion) 2-door convertible (conversion)
Engine	2,262 cc (138 cu in) straight-6 ohv
Wheelbase	107 in (2,718 mm)
Length	172 in (4,369 mm)
Width	64 in (1,626 mm)
Height	60 in (1,524 mm)
Curb weight	2,464 lb (1,118 kg)
Related	Ford Consul I

Model number EOTA

The first of the Zephyr range was a lengthened version of the four-cylinder 1,508 cc (92 cu in) Consul, with a 2,262 cc (138 cu in) six-cylinder engine producing 68 bhp (51 kW). Like the Consul, the Zephyr came with a three speed gear box, controlled using a column mounted lever.The front suspension design, based on that first seen in the Ford Vedette, employed what would later come to be known as MacPherson struts while a more conventional configuration for the rear suspension used a live axle with half-elliptic springs. The car could reach just over 80 mph (130 km/h) and 23 mpg.

The Ford Zephyr Six was available with 4-door saloon,estate and 2-door convertible bodies. The convertible version was made by Carbodies and had a power-operated hood; the estate car was by Abbotts of Farnham and was sold as the Farnham.

The Consul and Zephyr were assembled at Ford New Zealand's Seaview factory in Lower Hutt from CKD kits. The large Fords competed with the also locally built Vauxhall Wyvern and Velox and, later the Australian Holden. When the newly crowned Queen Elizabeth II visited New Zealand as part of a Commonwealth tour in the early 1950s, she was pictured watching Zephyrs being built at the local Ford plant.

In 1953, a Ford Zephyr Six driven by Maurice Gatsonides won the Monte Carlo rally, pushing a Jaguar Mark VII into second place in the process. Two years later a Ford Zephyr Six driven by Vic Preston with D P Marwaha won the East African Safari Rally.

A saloon tested by The Motor magazine in 1951 had a top speed of 79.8 mph (128.4 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in just 20.2 seconds. A fuel consumption of 23.7 miles per imperial gallon (11.9 L/100 km; 19.7 mpg_-US) was recorded. The test car cost £842 including taxes but was fitted with optional leather trim, heater and radio (the basic car cost £842).

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  Ford Zephyr Mark I
 
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  Ford Zephyr Convertible (Mark I)

Zephyr Zodiac (or Zodiac Mark I)

Ford Zephyr Zodiac

Production	1954-1956 22,634 made.
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door estate (conversion)
Engine	2,262 cc (138 cu in) straight-6

Model number EOTTA

The Zephyr Zodiac (or Zodiac Mark I) was an upmarket version of the Zephyr launched at the London Motor Show in autumn 1953. It had two-tone paintwork, leather trim, a heater, windscreen washers, whitewall tyres, and spot lights. The engine had a higher compression ratio - 7.5:1 instead of 6.8:1 - increasing the maximum power to 71 bhp (53 kW).

A car tested by The Motor magazine in 1955 had a top speed of 80 mph (130 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 20.2 seconds. A fuel consumption of 22.2 miles per imperial gallon (12.7 L/100 km; 18.5 mpg_-US) was recorded. The test car cost £851 including taxes.

There are no official records of Zephyr Zodiac convertibles being produced, but there were a few estate cars.

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  Ford Zodiac Mark I
 
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  Zodiac ornament

Mark II

Zephyr Mark II

Ford Zephyr Mark II

Ford Zephyr Mark II Saloon
Production	1956-1962 294,506 (including the Zodiac Mark II) and 6911 Convertibles made.
Body style	4-door saloon ("sedan" in Australia) 5-door station wagon (Australia) 2-door coupe utility (Australia) 5-door estate (conversion) 2-door convertible (conversion)
Engine	2,553 cc (156 cu in) straight-6 ohv
Wheelbase	107 in (2,718 mm)
Length	178.5 in (4,534 mm)
Width	67 in (1,702 mm)
Curb weight	2,576 lb (1,168 kg)
Related	Ford Consul II

Model number 206E

In 1956 the Consul, Zephyr and Zodiac were all restyled. The 6-cylinder cars' engines were enlarged to 2,553 cc (156 cu in), with power output correspondingly raised to 86 bhp (64 kW).The wheelbase was increased by 3 inches (76 mm) to 107 inches (2,700 mm) and the width increased to 69 inches (1,800 mm). The weight distribution and turning circle were also improved. Top speed increased to 88 mph (142 km/h) and the fuel consumption was also improved at 28 mpg_-imp(10 L/100 km; 23 mpg_-US).

The Zodiac and Zephyr were also offered in two body styles these being the "Highline" and "Lowline", depending on the year of manufacture — the difference being 1.75 in (44 mm) being cut from the height of the roof panel. The "Highline" variant featured a hemispherical instrument cluster, whereas the "Lowline" had a more rectangular panel.

As well as a 3-speed manual gearbox there was an optional overdrive and from 1956 (1959 in Australia) a Borg Warner DG automatic transmission. At first drum brakes were fitted all round (with a larger lining area of 147 sq in/950 cm²) but front discs became optional in 1960 and standard from mid 1961 (in Australia only 4-wheel drum brakes were available; some dealers fitted servo-assistance from 1961).

A two-door convertible version was offered with power-operated hood. Because of the structural weaknesses inherent in the construction of convertibles, few convertibles are known to survive.

A convertible with overdrive tested by The Motor magazine in 1961 had a top speed of 88.3 mph (142.1 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 17.0 seconds. A fuel consumption of 24.5 miles per imperial gallon (11.5 L/100 km; 20.4 mpg_-US) was recorded. The test car cost £1193 including taxes.

Australian production

In Australia, the Mark II Consul, Zephyr and Zodiac were built at Ford Australia's factory in Geelong. Sedan, coupe utility, and station wagon versions were produced. The Australian developed Mark II Station Wagon differed from its English Estate Car counterpart in having a wind up rear window, and a straight, rather than curved C pillar. Mark II manufacture continued until 1962, in which year production reverted to assembly of Mark IIIs from imported Completely knocked down kits.

New Zealand assembly of the Mark II, also from CKD kits, now included the Zodiac. The big Fords from England were now offered alongside the Australian-sourced Ford Falcon and also competed with the Vauxhall Victor and Velox, Holden, and Australia's Chrysler Valiant. Supplies were restricted due to strict import licensing and demand always exceeded availability; it was not uncommon for buyers to wait two to three years for their new big Ford.

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  Zephyr Mark II "Lowline"
 
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  Carbodies Convertible Zephyr
 
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  Australian Ford Zephyr Mark II Station Wagon
 
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  Ford Zephyr Mark II Coupe Utility

Zodiac Mark II

Ford Zodiac Mark II

Production	1956-1962 294,506 (including the Zodiac Mark II) and 6911 Convertibles made
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door estate (conversion) 2-door convertible (conversion)
Engine	2,553 cc (156 cu in) straight-6

Model number 206E

The Mark II Zodiac was slightly altered to distinguish it from the lesser variants, having more elaborate tail-end styling and at the front a different grille. The auxiliary lamps and wing mirrors were deleted from the Zodiac range but it retained two-tone paint, whitewall tyres, chrome wheel-trim embellishers and gold plated badges.

A car tested by the British magazine The Motor in 1956 had a top speed of 87.9 mph (141.5 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 17.1 seconds. A fuel consumption of 21.5 miles per imperial gallon (13.1 L/100 km; 17.9 mpg_-US) was recorded. The test car cost £968 including taxes.

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  Zodiac Mark II
 
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  Convertible Zodiac

Abbott Estates

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  Zodiac Mark II 206E Abbott estate
 
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Mark III

Zephyr 4 Mark III

Ford Zephyr 4 Mark III

Production	1962-1966 106,810 made.
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door estate (conversion)
Engine	1,703 cc (104 cu in) straight-4
Wheelbase	107 in (2,718 mm)
Length	180.75 in (4,591 mm) (saloon & estate)
Width	69.25 in (1,759 mm)
Height	57.25 in (1,454 mm) (saloon) 57.75 in (1,467 mm) (estate)
Curb weight	2,576 lb (1,168 kg) (Saloon) 2,912 lb (1,321 kg) (estate)
Related	Ford Zephyr 6 Mark III
Designer(s)	Roy Brown

Model 211E

Rather than call the smaller-engined model the Consul as before, Ford UK called it a Zephyr 4 — the 4 to indicate that it had the four-cylinder 1,703 cc (104 cu in) engine from old Consul. A four-speed manual gearbox, now with synchromesh on all ratios, was standard, with overdrive or automatic transmission available as options.

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  Zephyr 4
 
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Zephyr 6 Mark III

Ford Zephyr 6 Mark III

Production	1962-1966 105,256 made.
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door estate (conversion)
Engine	2,553 cc (156 cu in) straight-6(a small block Ford was available in The Australian Market)

Model numbers 213E, 214E (right- and left-hand drive)

The Zephyr / Zodiac Mark III shared some of its mechanical components, as well as the basic chassis design, with the Mark II, but had a stronger overall body construction. The exterior was designed by Canadian Roy Brown who also designed the Edsel and the Cortina, though the rear of the body was inspired by a design proposal by Frua. Unlike the Zephyr 4, the Zephyr 6 had a full width grille including the headlight surrounds: overall body length and width were the same for both Zephyr III versions. With the same 2,553 cc (156 cu in) displacement as before, the Mark III model had higher compression ratio resulting in some 20 hp (15 kW) higher output as well as a broader torque range.

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  Ford Zephyr 6
 
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Only saloons and estate cars were made, the estate being a conversion by Abbotts of Farnham.

Abbott Estates

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  Zephyr 6 Abbott estate
 
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Zodiac Mark III

Ford Zodiac Mark III

Production	1962-1966 77,323 made.
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door estate (conversion)
Engine	2,553 cc (156 cu in) straight-6
Wheelbase	107 in (2,718 mm)
Length	182.75 in (4,642 mm)
Width	69 in (1,753 mm)
Height	56.75 in (1,441 mm)
Curb weight	2,828 lb (1,283 kg)

Model numbers 213E, 214E

The Zodiac was an upmarket version of the Zephyr 6, but differed considerably from that model by the limousine-type rear doors, sharper roofline (with narrower C-pillar) and tail, unique grille (four headlights instead of two), exclusive bumper bars, plusher seating, and up-market upholstery, dashboard and interior fittings. A choice of individual or bench front seat was available trimmed in leather or cloth. The front doors and bonnet panels were shared with the Zephyr 6. The Executive version had extra luxury fittings again. The 2553 cc single-carburettor six-cylinder engine was improved internally to increase the power output to 109 bhp and a new four-speed all synchromesh transmission with column change was fitted. The brakes, servo assisted, use discs at the front and drum at the rear.

A Mk III saloon tested by the British The Motor magazine in 1962 had a top speed of 100.7 mph (162.1 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 13.4 seconds. A touring fuel consumption of 22.6 miles per imperial gallon (12.5 L/100 km; 18.8 mpg_-US) was recorded. The test car cost £1070 including taxes on the UK market.

Ford New Zealand built the Zephyr 4 and 6 as well as the Zodiac locally from CKD kits, offering only the bench front seat option finished in vinyl. Automatic transmission, introduced late in the life of the Mk II, was again available but was a rare factory option as most buyers chose manual. As well as the 'Zephyr 6', Ford NZ built a six-cylinder 'Zephyr Special' with a lower equipment level and deletion of the boot lid trim strip and other exterior brightwork which was sold to fleet operators such as the government. The big Fords were unusual in having four-speed manual gearboxes when rivals, including Ford's own Falcon, had only three speeds. Building the top luxury Zodiac model locally again also gave Ford a supply advantage over key rivals such as Vauxhall whose upmarket Cresta was only ever sold fully imported and much harder to obtain than the locally assembled Velox.

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  Ford Zodiac Mark III (213E)
 
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Mark IV

Zephyr Mark IV

Ford Zephyr Mark IV

Production	1966-1972 102,417 made.
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door estate (conversion)
Engine	1,996 cc (122 cu in) V4 2,495 cc (152 cu in) V6
Wheelbase	115 in (2,921 mm)
Length	185 in (4,699 mm)
Width	71.25 in (1,810 mm)
Height	58.5 in (1,486 mm)
Curb weight	2,716 lb (1,232 kg) (Zephyr 4) 2,884 lb (1,308 kg) (Zephyr 6)

Models 3008 / 3010E

In 1961, Ford began a complete redesign on the Zephyr, under the title of "Project Panda". As the car used the new V-series engines, the then traditional long bonnet concept created a problem until design engineer Harley Copp required that the car was both larger and had more internal space, and came up with the idea of placing the spare wheel ahead of the radiator on an angle.The result was a vehicle of similar dimensions to the North American Ford Fairlane.

The Mk IV range was launched, not at an October motorshow, but in the Spring of 1966 with new V format engines, the 4 having a 1,996 cc (122 cu in) V4 and the 6 a 2,495 cc (152 cu in) V6 unit. The independent suspension was aided by servo-assisted disc brakes on all wheels.

In November 1966 the manufacturers announced a plan to introduce an "export special" version of the Zephyr Mk IV combining the 3-litre engine of the Zodiac with other specifications largely following those of the existing Zephyr. This 3-litre Zephyr was not offered by Ford on the domestic (UK) market.

This three-litre model was quickly adopted by Ford New Zealand which had originally launched the Mk IV Zephyr assembled locally from CKD kits with the 2.5-litre V6 (no Zephyr 4 this time) and received complaints it was underpowered for a country where towing boats and caravans was common. Ford NZ also introduced optional floor shift and bucket seats as an alternative to the standard column shift and bench front seat and a large number of Zephyrs were built in this form, with other modifications, for New Zealand's traffic police.

The Zodiac was also again assembled in New Zealand with both bench and bucket front seats. Automatic transmission was optional with both the Zephyr and Zodiac. The Kiwi Mark IV line did not include the Zephyr Deluxe version available in the UK, was not as popular as the Mark III and was outsold by the now much wider locally built Australian Falcon range. Production ended in 1972 and the Consul and Granada replacements introduced in the UK were never officially imported into New Zealand.

Criticism of the handling of early examples in the UK led to the fitting as standard of radial-ply tyres on the larger-engined version in place of the more conventional (in the UK at that time) cross-ply tyres with which all versions were shod at the 1966 launch, and the retro-fitting of radial-ply tyres to early examples addressed the tendency of the rear wheels to slide uncontrollably in wet weather, justifying in the process Ford's investment in a new and relatively sophisticated rear suspension arrangement for the Mark IVs.Even after that a contemporary nevertheless opined that the ride involved a certain amount of 'float', and reported that the nose-heavy handling called for a 'strong driver', a problem which the more expensive Zodiac and Executive versions mitigated through the fitting as a standard feature of power assisted steering. Cost constraints precluded adding power assisted steering for the Zephyr, but during its production run the steering ratio was lowered which reduced the strength needed to change direction by increasing the number of turns between locks from 5.5 to an even higher 6.4.Another production modification for the 4-cylinder Zephyr involved redesigning the valve gear in order to eliminate the need on the early Mk IVs for frequent tappet adjustments.

The size of the bonnet was emphasized by square cut styling of the wings. A practical use was found for some of the extra space in front of the driver: the spare wheel was stored, ahead of the engine, under the bonnet, freeing up space at the other end of the car for more luggage.

Although large, the car, at least in its Zephyr form, was not particularly luxurious. Individual front seats were available at extra cost, but the standard front bench-seat was described by one commentator who ran the car on a long-term test as being intended for people no taller than 5 ft 8 in (1.72 m) who have the right leg 3 inches (8 cm) shorter than the left.

An estate version of the Zephyr Mark IV was announced just in time for the London Motor Show in October 1966, though deliveries commenced only in January 1967. As with the earlier Zephyrs, volumes did not justify tooling up for estate production at the Dagenham plant, and the cars were instead built by E.D. Abbott Ltd of Farnham, based on part finished saloons received from Ford.The Mark IV Zephyr estates (like their more expensive Zodiac siblings) came with black vinyl covered roof, a fashionable distinguishing feature of upmarket vehicles at the time: retention unchanged of the saloon's rear light clusters attracted criticism, however, because of the way it narrowed the rear hatch opening at floor level when compared to the arrangements on the cheaper Ford Cortina estates.

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  Ford Zephyr 4 Mark IV
 
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  Ford Zephyr 4 Mark IV: the short tailed long nosed profile recalled Ford's iconic Mustang
 
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  Ford Zephyr 6 Mark IV: the deluxe version gained a dummy grille between the headlights

Zodiac and Executive Mark IV

Ford Zodiac Mark IV

Production	1966-1972 48,846 made.
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door estate car (conversion)
Engine	2,994 cc (183 cu in) V6

Models 3012E / 3022E

The Zodiac Mark IV and "Executive" had four headlights and an uprated 2,994 cc (183 cu in) V6 engine. Claimed output was 136 bhp 'net' at 4,750 rpm, with 181.5 lb·ft (246.1 N·m) of torque at 3,000 rpm.The Zodiac featured an alternator instead of a dynamo on the Zephyr, an adjustable steering column, a spare wheel in the engine compartment, a heater and Aeroflow ventilation, electric window washers, 2-speed wipers, a cigar lighter, rev counter, clock, ammeter, and reversing lights as standard.

The Zephyr/Zodiac Mark IVs with their complex independent rear suspension design represented a considerable step up when compared to the Mark III big Fords which they replaced. Ford also determined to widen the price gap between the Zephyr and Zodiac version. In January 1967, less than a year after the car's introduction, it was announced that production of the Mark IVs was being cut back in response to poor sales. The announcement was accompanied by several pieces of more upbeat news about Cortina sales, and it was stressed that workers taken off Zephyr/Zodiac production would all be redeployed on the Cortina production lines.

Ford Zodiac Mark IV estate conversion

An estate version of the Zodiac Mk IV was announced at the same time as the Zephyr equivalent, and built alongside it at Farnham.There was no "Executive" estate.

The "Executive" was an upmarket version and had the highest specification offered by Ford to UK customers in the 1960s. Automatic transmission (the Zodiac's four-speed manual box with overdrive being also available as a 'no cost' option) along with power steering and a sunroof were standard equipment. Other standard features included; fully reclining front seats, Walnut fascia, full instrumentation, carpeting throughout, reversing lights, fog lamps, front inertia reel safety belts, and a radio. The Executive was distinguishable from other models by exterior trim and name badges on the front and rear.

An automatic transmission Ford Executive was tested by Britain's Autocar magazine in 1967. It had a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 13.1 seconds. An overall fuel consumption of 17.2 miles per imperial gallon (16.4 L/100 km; 14.3 mpg_-US) was recorded.By these performance criteria, the Ford betrayed its weight, but nevertheless usefully bettered the similarly sized 3.3-litre-engined Vauxhall Viscount. The Ford's recommended retail price of £1,567 exceeded the £1,483 sticker price on the Viscount.