1972 FORD FALCON XY PANELVAN
MODEL OVERVIEW:
The Ford Falcon XY Panelvan, produced between 1970 and 1972 with just 4,955 examples built, was the workhorse of Ford’s celebrated XY range and today is one of the rarest survivors, for that exact reason. Based on the tough Falcon platform, it featured a windowless rear cargo area with flat side panels, long roof, making it ideal for tradesmen, surfers and young adventurers alike. Buyers could specify everything from humble six-cylinder engines through to V8 power, with manual or automatic transmissions, giving the van both practicality and performance. With its rugged reliability, Aussie character and cheeky reputation, the XY Panelvan has become a cult classic and an increasingly collectible part of Ford’s muscle-car era.
AUCTION CAR:
On offer is a rare windowless 1972 Ford Falcon XY Panelvan. This example has undergone a no-expense-spared nut-and-bolt rebuild of the entire driveline and running gear, stripped to a bare shell and mounted on a rotisserie so that every mechanical component could be renewed by renowned XY Panelvan restoration expert John Parker, as his own car. Completed in 2023 and travelled just 118 miles since completion, it presents as a mechanically brand-new van beneath its original, time-worn exterior. Leave as is or paint with your own color or style.
DRIVE - LINE:
The entire driveline has been rebuilt to as-new standard. Upgraded power comes from a fully reconditioned 302ci Windsor V8 with reconditioned heads, mild camshaft, Holley Dominator manifold, restored rocker covers, a reconditioned Holley 600 carburettor and new electronic ignition. Exhaust gases exit via brand-new Pacemaker headers into a completely new twin system, giving it a tough note. Behind the engine, the 4-speed gearbox and differential were fully rebuilt, while the suspension, brakes, steering, fuel and brake lines, and wiring loom were all replaced with new components. In short, every nut, bolt and wearing part under the skin has been renewed — leaving a Panelvan that drives, handles and stops like it did fresh off the line, with all the reliability of new mechanicals.
EXTERIOR:
The rare windowless exterior remains untouched, wearing honest imperfections earned over five decades. This patina tells the story of a cared for working Falcon van and adds to its character, giving the buyer the choice to preserve its survivor appeal or respray it into a show-quality finish. As part of the full drive-line restoration, the Floor pans were paint coated as per factory. Very few windowless XY Panelvans remain in such unmolested straight and dry form, making this an extremely rare opportunity.
INTERIOR:
The cabin has only been mildly restored to complement the new driveline. The dash was refurbished by Mark Goode, while an original GT steering wheel was sourced and fitted. The bucket seats were professionally rebuilt by Mickz Trimming, with frames repaired, foams replaced and new covers installed. All dash wiring and gauges were renewed for reliability. Headlining is left bare for the next owner to style in the color and style of his choice.
Funnily, the rear walls of the van still bear the evidence of good times past — with “Michelle loves Dave” scratched into the inner wall and “Cathy” also making sure she left her mark aswell. If only Panelvan walls could talk.
SUMMARY:
This 1972 Ford Falcon XY Panelvan represents the very best of both worlds — a survivor body with patina, combined with a completely nut-and-bolt rebuilt driveline and running gear that is virtually brand new. Completed in 2023 and driven just 118 miles since, it’s offered as a ready-to-enjoy V8 Panelvan, sold unregistered but with its desirable Victorian plates “XY V8 PV” available separately. With so few XY Panelvans surviving in complete, windowless form, this mechanically new yet cosmetically original example is a standout opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Chassis: JG42MG73106C
Engine: JG34LT98704K
AUCTION DETAILS:
Estimate Price Guide: $45,000 - $65,000 +