Classic Carlectables 18873 Ford XA Falcon GT 1973 Bathurst Pole Position

Ford XA Falcon GT Hardtop 1973 Bathurst

The 1973 Bathurst race marked the beginning of a new era with significant rule changes. For the first time, competitors faced a 1000km distance, and the field was limited to true productionbased touring cars rather than the specialbuild factory machines. Among the 58 starters, Ford’s presence was surprisingly small only five Falcons lined up while Holden fielded a strong contingent of seventeen XU1 Torana’s.

Despite being outnumbered, the Falcons made an immediate impact. The McLeod Ford Falcon, driven by John Goss and Kevin Bartlett, stunned the field by taking pole position with a lap of 2m33.4s one second faster than the nearest Torana driven by Peter Brock and Doug Chivas. When the race began, the Falcon’s raw power was undeniable, sweeping into the top four positions by the end of the opening lap. Only fuel stops interrupted their dominance, briefly shuffling the order before Bartlett reclaimed the lead in the McLeod Falcon.

But Bathurst can be unforgiving. A major crash at the Cutting involving Bruce Stewart’s Torana set off a chain reaction that collected Bob Jane’s Torana and the McLeod Falcon. Though the Falcon made a stop for repairs and rejoined the race, a blown tyre and hidden internal damage sealed its fate. Overheating and falling oil pressure forced its retirement, ending what had promised to be a standout performance.

Features

• The comprehensive front end features vinyl covered headlights and driving lights, a finely moulded front grille and the front spoiler.
• The XA GT Hardtop bonnet ducts and hold-downs are nicely detailed and realistic.
• The boot was fairly sparse with only the fuel tank and fuel hose seen.
• Highly detailed steering wheel and dash featuring full instrumentation and components. Also shown is the unique dash-top gauge and the roll cage.
• The soft rubber seats feature the racing harness with detailed buckles and strapping. The fire extinguisher is tucked away behind the seat.
• The detailed door trims feature chrome door handles, mirror adjusters, door locks and window winders.
• Superb detail and craftmanship on the side-draught carburettors, engine block, rockers and hosing.
• The fine workmanship in the engine bay includes the Motorcraft Battery and radiator with their accurate decals reproduced.
• The metal working spring bonnet hinges allow bonnet positioning and smooth operation.
• The fine workmanship in the engine bay includes the Motorcraft Battery and radiator with their accurate decals reproduced.
• Exquisite chassis detail with working front suspension and steering. The springs, swaybar, wheel rims and brake discs feature nicely.
• Includes a Certificate of Authenticity, which also shows the production number of your model.