My Muscle Car
Car: Ford XW Falcon GT Hometown: Port Augusta, SA
AMC readers show us their muscle cars ahead of hitting the 2018 Aussie Muscle Car Run.
What is it?
“My car is a September 1969 XW GT. It originated with a 351ci Windsor, four-speed Toploader gearbox and 9” diff. It is Candy Apple Red in colour with the factory vinyl roof and black interior. The car was actually optioned with power-steering.”
When did you buy it?
“I purchased it, I think, seven years ago. It must have been in September, as I remember ying up to Queensland to look at it on a Wednesday following an Aussie rules grand nal win the Saturday prior and still not feeling 100 percent...”
Why did you buy it?
“Owning an XW GT was always a dream of mine and it’s the right GT for me. I have had a few cars leading up to purchasing this one, but never thought it possible to own an XW. I had an XT GT, XB GT and an XP Coupe, but I have always circled back to the XW. I like to see the underdog get up and win and to me the XWs
always seemed to have that tag, as the poor cousin to XY and its ‘Shaker’. I think that’s why I prefer the XW. Of course, I’m not saying the XYs are not a good-looking car and if you were to give me a Wild Violet XY GT, I’ll take it! I also have always liked the Windsor engines. I think that started with the XT GT. The bigger stroked 351ci was an advantage – faster is always better. The black vinyl roof, venetian blinds and general old school coolness of the car along with its overall condition ‘had me at hello’ when I rst laid eyes on it. Sold!”
What do you know about its history?
“As far as I know, this particular GT was sold new from Bob Rollington Ford in South Yarra, Victoria on October 31, 1969. Halloween! Other than that I am largely unaware of the car’s history. I would love to know more about it. [ED: Can anyone help? If so, contact amceditorial@chevron.com.au and we’ll put you in touch with Broady].”
How does it go?
“It handles well for a car made in 1969. With no modi cations to suspension or brakes, it’s about the best it is ever going to be! “When I rst bought it, the engine worried me a little (combined with the fear of crashing the car). Since then I have removed the original engine for safe keeping and Matt Clark from Develo Pro built me a nice little streeter. It is good for mid-eights on the 1/8th mile. I think with a toploader and its big dirty old clutch, I should be happy with that.”
Anything you’d like to add?
“It was my Dad who planted the seed of my car addiction. It was his stories about his FJ Holden, then driving a two-door HQ Monaro from Port Augusta to Adelaide in two-and-aquarter hours going the long way – when the speed limit was really more of a rough guide – and various other stories involving XY and XC Fords that got me hooked. My two mechanics Mia and Oliver – aged 4.5 and 2.5 years – love the car and would have me take them everywhere in it if they had it their way. I can tell you, I’ve had a few funny looks when I pull up with their car seats in the back! “And thank you to my beautiful wifey Adele.”
Where can people donate to Gas On Racing?
http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/ gason “I’d like to say ‘well done’ to the Leukaemia Foundation for organising such a great event. This year will be my fth tour and I am very much looking forward to catching up with some old friends and remembering some no longer with us. It just goes to show with great organisation and a love for cars, good times can be had – and hopefully continue to be had. Well done also to my old mate Darren ‘Brasso’ Willis for coming along.”