1982 FORD FAIRMONT XE ESP GHIA 5.8

ULTRA RARE 1 OF 178 BUILT – FACTORY 5.8L V8 4-SPEED MANUAL - 76,817 KLMS - MATCHING NUMBERS – SERVICE BOOKS

An exceptionally rare and highly significant Australian performance sedan, this 1982 Ford Fairmont XE ESP Ghia 5.8 represents one of just 178 Option 54 examples produced in 351 Cleveland V8 with four-speed manual configuration. Presented in its factory colour of Chestnut over Charcoal Grey, and trimmed with the distinctive Sierra Tan Scheel interior, this is a genuine, matching-numbers example showing just 76,817 kilometres and accompanied with Service and Owners books. Representing the final chapter of the Cleveland 351 V8 engine globally — with these engines cast and assembled at Ford’s Geelong foundry — the XE ESP Ghia 5.8 holds a unique place in both Australian and international motoring history.

Examples of this calibre are rarely offered, particularly with this level of originality and provenance.

DRIVELINE

At its core is the original, matching-numbers Ford Australia built 5.8-litre (351ci) Cleveland V8, retained in factory specification. The engine carries casting date '17J1' for October 17 1981, further confirming its authenticity and is paired with its original four-speed manual transmission and driving through the factory limited-slip differential. The driveline remains largely untouched and highly original, with the only deviation being the addition of exhaust headers and exhaust, enhancing the unmistakable Cleveland V8 soundtrack while maintaining overall originality. This is a highly correct and complete ESP 5.8 driveline, central to the car’s collectability.

EXTERIOR

Finished in factory Chestnut over Charcoal Grey, the exterior reflects the XE ESP’s refined approach to performance — a deliberate shift toward a more sophisticated, European-inspired sports sedan. Unique ESP features include the wider headlights with integrated driving lights, along with a model-specific bonnet and grille, distinguishing it from all other XE variants. Subtle Ghia badging and factory 15-inch “Snowflake” alloy wheels complete the package, delivering a purposeful yet understated stance. This car retains its correct factory appearance throughout and presents very well.

INTERIOR

The interior is defined by its highly desirable Sierra Tan Scheel sports seats in near unmarked condition. These Scheel seats are widely regarded as one of the standout features of the ESP program. Offering exceptional support and comfort, they reinforce the “European Sports Pack” philosophy that underpinned the model. The cabin is further enhanced by Ghia-level appointments, including comprehensive instrumentation, power steering and air conditioning. Notably, power windows were optional on the 5.8 ESP, and this example is rarer still for being specified without them. Well preserved and highly original, the interior reflects careful ownership and complements the car’s overall authenticity.

SUMMARY

As one of just 178 produced, and representing the final global application of the Cleveland 351 V8 in a Falcon based passenger car, the XE ESP Ghia 5.8 occupies a pivotal place in Australian motoring history. This example stands as a true collector-grade car — Low Kilometres, Matching Numbers, Owners Books and highly original specification. With its rarity, provenance and exceptional level of preservation, it represents one of the finest opportunities to acquire a benchmark Ford Australia performance sedan of the early 1980's.