1973 FORD FALCON XA GT RPO83
SOLD: $ PRIVACY REQUEST
MODEL OVERVIEW:
The 1973 Ford Falcon XA GT RPO83 Hardtop is an ultra-rare and highly significant piece of Australian muscle car history, born from Ford’s motorsport ambitions during the early ATCC Group C era. Developed as a homologation special, the RPO83 combined Phase IV spec performance upgrades, such as the Holley 780 CFM carburetor and HM (Head Mod) GT HO extractor manifolds on a standard GT platform, with no external badging or fanfare to reveal its true capability. Its legacy is underscored by the domination of Mount Panorama by Moffatt and Goss in 1973 & 1974, behind the wheel of the RPO83 based Falcons, as it was designed to specifically support.
With just 120 Hardtops produced, the RPO83 stands as one of the rarest, most potent and most collectible Homologation Falcon GTs ever built.
1973 FORD FALCON XA GT HARDTOP – RPO83
Chicane Auctions is proud to present this exceptionally rare and highly collectible 1973 Ford XA GT RPO83 Hardtop, a standout example of Australian muscle car royalty. A complete Bare Metal restoration was completed in 2005 by Grand Tourer and then went on to become a Falcon GT Nationals Award-Winning example. One of just 120 RPO83 Hardtops ever produced, this car represents the apex of Ford Australia’s 1970’s performance GT heritage. Rarer than the revered XY GT Phase III and regarded by many in the GT community as a superior survivor in scarcity and specification.
FACTORY SPECIFICATION:
VIN: JG66NG17202K
Model Code: 18218 – Falcon XA GT RPO83 Hardtop
Engine Code: T – 351C CID V8 4V
Trans Code: L – 4sp Manual Floor Shift
Paint Code: 7 – Walnut Glow
Trim Code: P – Parchment Vinyl
Compliance Date: 08/73
FACTORY OPTIONS:
03 – Seat Belts (Mandatory)
04 – Protection Pack
11 – Laminated Tintband Windscreen
16 – Black Vinyl Roof
55 – Bonnet Black
61 – Dual Mirrors
83 – Performance Pack
87 – Tinted Side and Rear Glass
90 – Delete Predelivery Wax
FACTORY PERFORMANCE: (RPO 83)
Power: 330 bhp (246 kW) at 5400 rpm
Torque: 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) at 3800 rpm
DRIVELINE:
Beneath the bonnet lies a non-matchng but era correct 1972 (casting 2L30) 351ci Cleveland 4V V8 – fully rebuilt by respected GT engine specialist, the late Neil Thompson of Grand Tourer. Featuring its original RPO83 numbered Holley 780CFM carburetor with factory style HM (Head Mod) GT HO Phase IV header extractors, originally developed for ATCC Group C homologation. The engine is rebuilt with its big 4-dot heads, a solid camshaft and roller rockers to Phase 2 specification, providing both exceptional drivability, performance and long-term reliability. Electronic ignition has been fitted with the correct ‘yellow top’ coil being included with the sale. The driveline and suspension were completely renewed as part of the comprehensive nut & bolt restoration completed in 2005. The factory Top Loader 4-speed manual gearbox was stripped, inspected, and reassembled with new seals, while the 9-inch differential was rebuilt with a solid spacer, new seals, LSD clutch packs, and fresh bearings. The entire undercarriage, suspension, and mechanical components remain in fantastic condition, having travelled just 9,000 odd careful miles since the restoration was completed.
EXTERIOR:
This original matching body GT is a stand out in its factory-correct Walnut Glow Metallic paintwork, offset by its black vinyl roof and matching black-out bonnet. Every external detail was restored in 2005 by Grand Tourer, with great attention paid to correct fittings, trim and panel alignment.
However… paint preparation imperfections causing serious paint blistering are now visible throughout the paintwork / body. The reserve price has been lowered to reflect this. An inspection is recommended to assess the extent of any imperfections, as photos do not reveal clearly.
Standing as a visual masterpiece that perfectly captures the spirit of early ’70s muscle, this iconic Ford GT Hardtop design remains a timeless classic—never to be repeated.
INTERIOR:
Inside, the car features a fully restored and near flawless Parchment interior, highlighted by its crisp original instrumentation. Much of the interior is factory original, with reproduction trim materials matched exactly to original specifications, used during restoration process in bringing it to this level. The only upgrade being the fitment of AM/FM internals to the Dealer fitted original Super Fringe radio. The attention to detail mirrors the quality seen throughout the car, nothing has been overlooked. The interior is hard to fault.
SUMMARY:
Delivered new through Bethel Ford in Horsham Victoria, this stunning RPO83 has been owned by the Vendor since 1998. This example is presented with a Ford Letter of Authenticity, an ACCHS Report, a comprehensive restoration receipt file from Grand Tourer Restorations and its original Victorian Black & White plates. Its nut-and-bolt, bare metal rebuild was undertaken by Grand Tourer – an authority in Ford GT restorations nationwide.
A final point must be noted: the ICAARS report noted the original Shock tower chassis numbers have been enhanced due to possible sandblasting during restoration. The Vendor has requested this item is pointed.
With its rarity, factory specification, presentation and provenance… this is a rare opportunity to own a known piece of Australian motoring royalty.
For more information, inspection bookings, or to register for the auction, visit www.chicaneauctions.com.au or contact Chicane Auctions directly on 03 9580 7369 or email - [email protected]
About Chicane Auctions:
Based in Melbourne Australia, Chicane Auctions specialise in Collector, Performance & Rare Cars.
With an experienced background, Chicane are passionate in exceptional collector cars.