With the 260kW version of the newly released BA series of Fords coming in early 2003, it will be the first time Ford's XR8 has had the upper hand, in terms of performance, over Holden's SS since the Gen III Chevrolet V8 appeared in the VTII Commodore facelift of 1999. Since the previous AU generation was somewhat of a flop, Ford has spent about half a billion AUSD making sure it gets the newest BA (Barra) right. The new car features larger wheels and a completely redesigned (and thankfully more subtle) exterior, a lower body height, drive-by-wire throttle control, electronically-adjustable pedals, reverse sensing system, sattelite navigation, independent rear suspension in place of the previous non-independent Watts links, which will hopefully improve ride quality as well as handling, and a completely redesigned engine. About the same time the XR8 is released, a GT version of the Falcon will also appear which will feature a 402hp version of the all-alloy 5.4-litre V8! Watch out!

Powertrain Layout	Front Engine/RWD
Hoursepower@RPM	349@5250
Engine Type	32 Valve V8
Torque, lb-ft@RPM	368@4250
0-100kph, sec	5.73 seconds
Dry weight	213.9 Lb

Home