The Ford Falcon GTHO Phase III was a modified version the Falcon GT built in 1971 with a heavily modified engine, a 4 speed top-loader gearbox and Detroit locker 9" differential. It was also equipped with special brakes and handling package, plus a 36 US gal (136 L; 30 imp gal) fuel tank.
Winner of the 1971 Bathurst 500, driven by Allan Moffat, the Phase III has been described as "...simply one of the best cars in the world, a true GT that could take on Ferraris and Astons on their own terms..." by Sports Car World.[4]
The GTHO's 351 Cleveland engine produced over 380 hp (283 kW) which, back in 1971, was grossly underrated to 300 hp (224 kW). Initial cars were equipped with an electrical rev limiter which came into effect at 6,150 rpm. With the rev limiter disabled, the engine was reputed to pull in excess of 7,000+ rpm, even in 4th gear. The "HO" portion of the name stood for "Handling Option", these options included bigger brakes, stiffer suspension, a front spoiler, a choice of 3 differentials and an optional close-ratio gearbox making the production GTHO very similar to the race version.
The Phase III was Australia's fastest four door production car for many years and in 1971 it won the Bathurst 500 motor race in the hands of Allan Moffat, however at the time the Chrysler Valiant E49 Charger held the Australian 1/4 mile record. In 1972 the 3.3 L (202) 6-cylinder LJ Torana GTR-XU1, driven by Peter Brock, defeated the GTHO to win Bathurst after brake problems and wet weather put paid to the GTHO challenge.
Porsche maybe someday!!! (There is no other substitute!!!)
