Ford Falcon
Ford
Photo: GTHO / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0
Ford Falcon: The Compact That Spawned the Mustang
The Falcon was Ford's hugely successful compact car of the 1960s, whose platform underpinned the original Mustang.
Launched in 1960, the Falcon was Ford's answer to growing demand for smaller, economical cars. It was a massive sales success, offering simple, affordable, practical transport in sedan, wagon, and other body styles.
The Falcon's greatest legacy is mechanical: its platform and components formed the basis of the original 1964 Mustang, making it one of the most influential Fords of the era. A separate, long-lived Falcon line also thrived in Australia for decades.
Though the American Falcon faded by the early 1970s, its role in birthing the Mustang secures its place in Ford history.
Frequently asked questions about Ford Falcon
When was the Ford Falcon made?
The American Falcon launched in 1960 and faded by the early 1970s.
Did the Falcon influence the Mustang?
Yes, the Falcon's platform and components formed the basis of the original 1964 Mustang.
Was the Falcon successful?
Yes, the Falcon was a major sales success as an affordable, practical compact.
Was there an Australian Falcon?
Yes, a separate long-lived Falcon line thrived in Australia for decades.
Why is the Falcon important?
Its platform birthed the Mustang, making it one of the most influential Fords of its era.