When was the last Ford LTD made in Australia?
The Ford LTD was a luxury sedan that held a special place in Australian automotive history. Known for its comfort, style, and performance, the LTD was a flagship model for Ford Australia. In this article, we’ll explore the timeline of the Ford LTD and reveal when the last model rolled off the production line in Australia.
A Brief History of the Ford LTD in Australia
The Ford LTD was introduced in Australia in 1973 as a high-end luxury vehicle, based on the Ford Falcon platform. It was designed to compete with other premium sedans of the time, such as the Holden Statesman. Over the years, the LTD became synonymous with executive comfort and was often used as a government or corporate vehicle.
Ford Australia produced several generations of the LTD, each featuring advancements in technology, design, and performance. The LTD was known for its spacious interiors, powerful engines, and smooth ride, making it a favorite among Australian drivers who valued luxury and reliability.
The End of an Era: The Last Ford LTD
The production of the Ford LTD in Australia came to an end in March 2007. The final model was based on the BF series, which featured modern updates such as improved safety features, refined styling, and enhanced performance. The decision to discontinue the LTD was part of Ford Australia's broader strategy to streamline its lineup and focus on more popular models, such as the Falcon and Territory.
While the LTD is no longer in production, it remains a beloved classic among car enthusiasts and collectors. Its legacy as a symbol of Australian automotive luxury continues to live on.
Why the Ford LTD Was Discontinued
Several factors contributed to the discontinuation of the Ford LTD in Australia:
- Declining Demand: The market for large luxury sedans was shrinking as consumers shifted towards SUVs and smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
- Rising Production Costs: Manufacturing a low-volume luxury model like the LTD became less economically viable for Ford Australia.
- Changing Market Trends: The growing popularity of imported luxury brands made it difficult for the LTD to compete in its segment.
The Legacy of the Ford LTD
Although the Ford LTD is no longer in production, it remains a significant part of Australia’s automotive history. Its combination of luxury, performance, and local manufacturing made it a standout vehicle during its time. Today, the LTD is cherished by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique place in the Australian car market.
If you’re lucky enough to own a Ford LTD or are considering purchasing one, maintaining it properly is essential to preserving its value and performance. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in servicing classic and luxury vehicles, ensuring they remain in top condition for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does XR6 stand for?
The first XR's were the XR6, S-XR6 and XR8 (these names were applied to the more performance oriented Ford Falcons) and the XR2 (Ford Capri). The number after the "XR" is used on Falcons to designate the amount of cylinders the cars engine has.
How much is a Ford LTD worth?
A: The average price of a Ford LTD is $12,878.
What Ford cars are made in Australia?
Australia is a key product development hub for Ford, with a local design and engineering team who lead the development of the Ford Ranger, Ranger Raptor, and Everest − vehicles sold in approximately 180 markets globally.
Why was the Ford LTD discontinued?
In addition to slow sales, potential model overlap with the Fairmont (and LTD) led to the discontinuation of the LTD II station wagon after 1977. For 1979, the LTD II effectively became obsolete upon the introduction of the downsized Ford LTD.
What was the last Ford ute made in Australia?
Under this plan, Falcon's indirect replacements are the fourth-generation Mondeo from Europe and the sixth-generation Mustang from North America, the latter to retain Ford's Australian V8 heritage. The final Ford Falcon, a blue XR6, rolled off the production line on 7 October 2016.
What is the gas mileage on a 1972 Ford LTD?
Based on data from 2 vehicles, 11 fuel-ups and 2,263 miles of driving, the 1972 Ford LTD gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.69 with a 2.47 MPG margin of error.
When was the last Ford Fairlane made in Australia?
The Fairlane name has been on Australian roads since 1959 but the first models sold were imported from North America. Local production of the Fairlane began on February 27, 1967 and continued until 7.31 in the morning on January 25, 2008, when the last one rolled off the Ford line at Broadmeadows.
What was the last Australian Ford LTD?
In May 2007, it was announced that production of the Fairlane and LTD would cease as a decline in sales in its market segment rendered continued production of long-wheelbase models unsustainable. The last Fairlane was produced on 13 December 2007. A total of 153 BF LTD's are listed as having been manufactured by Ford.
What year was the last Ford made in Australia?
2016
The Geelong factory produced its last Australian-made straight-six and V8 engines on 26 September 2016. Assembly at Broadmeadows concluded on 7 October 2016, ending Ford's 88-year history in Australia.
When was the last Ford LTD made?
The Ford LTD (pronounced ell-TEE-dee) is a range of automobiles manufactured by Ford for the 1965 to 1986 model years.
