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In 1973 Ford Australia were out to capture an even greater market share than their already dominant Fairlane. With government regulations on the percentage of local content used in vehicles, the US built and locally assembled Galaxie LTD's days were numbered. Ford set out to design and build a new four-door LTD and two-door Landau, described as a 'personal coupe'. This effort turned into the most expensive car ever produced in Australia to that date.
Construction was done using the Falcon coupe body, with revised rear side window openings, an LTD front with hide-away headlights and a padded vinyl roof. The rear was slightly altered using a long horizontal joined tail light and indicators. Standard equipment on the Landau includes 351ci V8, auto transmission, power steering, 4 wheel disc brakes, air conditioning, power windows, collapsible steering column, inertia reel seat belts and the list goes on and on. The only two Optional 'Extras' were leather trim and combination Radio/Stereo Tape Cassette.
The concept of a two-door 'personal coupe' was not widely accepted at the time in the luxury car market and hence only 1385 Landau's were built between 1973 and 1976.
Identifying a Landau
There are four major external features that differentiate the XA, XB, and XC Hardtop and the Landau.
- Totally different front end sheet metal and grille with hide-away headlights
- Totally different tail light panel with a single strip of lights
- Totally different Dash and instruments
- Interior has four bucket seats
It has now been 33 years since the Landau was released so these features are used as a general indication only. A lot of cars have been modified over time.
Price guide
As with any collectable vehicle prices vary wildly depending on rarity, factory options, condition etc. The below guide reflects conditions 5/10 - 10/10 and are based on sales prices that would not include shipping and other associated costs in getting a vehicle to the USA.
| Landau |
U$8,000 - U$20,000 |
Interested in obtaining a Landau?
As is so often the case in Australia, these cars were produced in very limited numbers. They were not appreciated and cared for in a manner that was conducive to their preservation. It is unknown how many are still left but with the ever increasing prices of Falcon Hardtops these are in line for a dramatic price increase in the near future. Secure yours now!
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