The new model saw a lot of changes introduced due to the changing Australian Design Rules. These included a much larger front bumper and engine modifications. A new, squarer looking grille finished the front end restyle. The Fairmont version was also fitted with square headlights as opposed to circular headlights in the cheaper models.

The interior was redone with a flat dash and circular instruments. This is important to note if you are in the market for an XB Falcon and are considering the XC as a cheaper option, changing out the dash is a major effort!

In April 1978 an 'Update' was performed on the XC, this is known as the XC½. Visually similar to the earlier XC's with the exception of the blue Ford oval on the grille. The update mainly focused on firmer suspension and a rear anti-roll bar. This was in response to the new HZ Kingswood that had just been released by Holden with 'Radial Tuned Suspension'.

The last 400 of the Hardtop bodies were released in August 1978 as a collector's edition. Dressed in white with Bold Blue stripes these vehicles were nothing more than an excuse for a racing homologation special. There is a lot more information on the XC Cobra here.

XC Cobra (above)

The XC Hardtop was released in three editions: GS Hardtop, Fairmont Hardtop and XC Cobra. Engines came in a variety of sizes from the all new Australian designed six cylinder 250 Cross Flow to the V8 302 Cleveland and the 351 Cleveland. As the Metric system was in place by this time in Australia they wore 4.1, 4.9 and 5.8 (Cubic Centimeters Displacement) respectively. Transmissions were either automatics or 4 speed manuals. Delivering the power to the road was normally done using an 8" or 9" differential.

Identifying an XC Falcon Hardtop
There are three major external features that differentiate the XC Hardtop from the XA and XB Hardtops.

• The horizontal slat grille raised in the center.
• Larger front bumper.
• Turn lights are no longer wrap around and the addition of a side marker in the front fender.

Standard Grille (above)

Twin Headlight Grille (above)

Fairmont Grille (above)

It has now been 30 years since the XC was released so these features are used as a general indication only. A lot of cars have been modified over time.

The XC Family
There was a total of 171,082 XC's produced between July, 1976 and February, 1979. Ford didn't keep detailed production records for all body styles but we can tell you the Hardtop numbers: 1,214 XC Falcon GS; 648 XC Fairmonts and 400 XC Cobras.

The other models in the range consisted of 168,820: Sedan, Wagon, Utility (Ranchero) and Panel Van (Sedan Delivery).

Price guide
As with any collectable vehicle prices vary wildly depending on rarity, factory options, condition etc. The below guide reflects conditions 5/10 - 10/10 and are based on sales prices that would not include shipping and other associated costs in getting a vehicle to the USA.

XC Cobra	U$25,000 - U$80,000
XC Fairmont Hardtop	U$12,000 - U$20,000
XC GS Falcon Hardtop	U$12,000 - U$20,000
XC Falcon 500/Fairmont/GXL Sedan	U$4,000 - U$17,000
XC Utility	U$6,000 - U$15,000
XC Panel Van	U$5,500 - U$14,000
XC Sundowner Panel Van	U$7,500 - U$16,000
XC Falcon/Fairmont Wagon	U$4,000 - U$12,000

Interested in obtaining an XB?
The XC Falcon Hardtop spells the end of the two door Hardtop from Ford Australia. There are very few XC Hardtops in the USA. Approximately 5 XC Cobras have made it to our shores. With such limited numbers the XC is bound to leap in value in the near future. Don't wait too long, get in now!