AU II Fairmont Ghia

As desperate Ford attempted to resuscitate its faltering Falcon fortunes with a new horizontal grille, a squarer rear bumper and boot number plate valance, larger wheels and tyres, classier cabin trim and extra standard features.

Suspension and ride qualities were improved, and extra sound deadening brought on greater refinement.

On the safety front seatbelt pretensioners were made standard. Service intervals were extended from 10,000km to 15,0000, with free servicing for 60,000km.

Still, Commodore sales kept bounding away from the Falcon.

The AU II Ghia’s standard engine was the 4.0L VCT with 168kW/370Nm.

New standard features: Better CD audio, power operated driver’s seat, sunglasses holder, metallic-look trim, speed warningEngine options: 175kW/395Nm 5.0L OHV V8.