BF Fairlane and LTD

“The Fairlane/LTD finds further refinement.” That was the headline summing up the Fairlane’s transition from BA to BF.

And while the big news is the application of ZF’s six-speed automatic gearbox that has helped to transform the biggest Aussie Fords into sedans with seriously world-class capabilities and value-for-money, it was what happened underneath which is just as impressive.

With the six-speed auto, gone forever, finally, is that taxi-like transmission whine.

Part of the refinements packaging came through concerted work to deaden noise paths with fancy padding from the engine bay, parcel shelf, roof and other known areas that transmit it.

A revised electronic throttle working with an engine now torquier down low and yet punchier up high due to more sophisticated variable-valve timing was another step forward, along with upgraded anti-lock and traction control systems.

Engines for the BF Fairlane are a 190kW/383Nm 4.0-litre DOHC 24V in-line six-cylinder engine, and a 230kW/500Nm 5.4 24V V8.

Sole engine for the BF LTD is a 230kW/500Nm 5.4 24V V8.

Fairlane & LTD fans will spot the new tail-lights, alloy wheels, transmission shifter, soft-feel grab handles, woodgrain finishes, nd revised colour palettes.