By EWAN KENNEDY
30 April 2007

Fairlane and LTD are long-wheelbase versions of the Ford Falcon. They make excellent family cars if you’ve got some hulking teenagers to transport as all the extra length goes into rear-seat legroom. Note that these limo-sized Fords are better suited to four occupants than five as the centre-rear seat’s foot-space is compromised by the transmission tunnel.

Boot space is about the same as that of the Falcon. Meaning it’s quite large, but on the shallow side.

Not only do these big Fords provide additional interior space, but also hold a more upmarket image.

Many began their lives as government or hire cars and have generally led a pampered life, having been serviced strictly according to the book and carefully maintained by drivers who took pride in them.

Fairlane and LTD models being examined start from the heavily revised version of the 1988 model that was released here in March 1995. New bodies were introduced with the AU series in March 1999 and it got a major update with the BA series in 2002.

These latter BA models can be difficult to pick from the Falcon at a quick glance as they share most front and rear components. Which has led to a marked downturn in sales as people forking out the extra purchase money want to be seen in something relatively exclusive.

Indeed, new sales have slumped to the extent that there is speculation the big Fords may be discontinued. If this does happen, and hopefully it won’t because Fairlane has been a major part of the Australian automotive market for decades, it’s unlikely there will be any real affect on resale values of older models.

Though they are very large cars the Fords are reasonably easy to drive. However, they can be out of place on inner city streets and in tight parking stations.

Sixes and V8s are offered in both models with the V8 being common in the LTD. The big V8 engine scores in its heavy towing ability, though the six isn't as far behind as you might expect. Many drivers just love the lazy, easy-going travel only a V8 can provide and aren't particularly interested in the latest and greatest in technology.

The six-cylinder powerplant is often the better bet unless you are a revhead as it has been significantly upgraded over the years and doesn’t lag all that far behind the V8. Expect to use about 10 to 15 percent less petrol in the six than the V8.

Engine capacity on the six-cylinder is 4.0 litres, with the engine being revised many times over the years. The powerplant from the AU series onwards is the one to aspire to if your budget can handle it.

The V8 had a capacity of 5.0 litres until the launch of the BA series in 2003, when an all-new design went up to 5.4 litres. The newer engine is far superior to its predecessor.

A four-speed automatic transmission was used in Fairlanes and LTDs until the BF facelift of 2005 introduced a six-speed unit. The latter is a far more modern design and combines good acceleration with a lazy, mile-eating high-ratio sixth gear.

The big Fords are relatively easy for the knowledgeable amateur to work on, though some of the luxury extras will need a professional operator. Spare parts are reasonable in price and there are dealers in virtually all areas of the continent.

Insurance costs are low, very low if you remember the high-class company this car keeps on the market.

We have seen some Fairlanes dressed up to look like LTDs, particularly in the older models. If you are in doubt get in touch with your Ford dealer and quote the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for a confirmation.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Check the body for signs of rust and/or previous crash damage. Rust is not usual but can get into the lower corners of the doors and bootlid, the boot floor and the rear windscreen surround.

Engines should start within a couple of seconds even when cold and should have a smooth idle straight away. Watch for smoke from the exhaust - at its most obvious when the accelerator is floored quickly, and feel for any hesitation under acceleration.

Check the automatic transmission isn't hesitant about going into gear from Park or Neutral and doesn't make unnecessary changes.

Listen for a whine from the differential at moderate urban speeds and when cruising at about 100km/h to 120km/h. It’s usually most obvious when you lift gently on and off the throttle a few times.

Earlier Fairlanes and LTDs weren't as well-built as they should have been. Check for parts that don't fit correctly, or rattle and squeak on bumpy roads. Later cars are much better, but can still have had a hard life so don't back off on your inspection.

CAR BUYING TIP
The more upmarket the car, the more important it is to look for one with a full service record from an authorised dealer.

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