The 1968 Ford Falcon, a name synonymous with American muscle cars, emerged during a period of automotive innovation and cultural change. This model year marked a significant shift for the Falcon, introducing a bold new design that captured the spirit of the times.
The 1968 Falcon wasn’t just a car; it was a symbol of freedom, power, and the American dream. It was a vehicle that resonated with a generation seeking adventure and a taste of the open road.
Underneath its sleek exterior, the 1968 Falcon offered a range of engine options, each delivering its own distinct character and performance. From the economical six-cylinder to the powerful V8, drivers could choose the engine that best suited their needs and driving style.
The Falcon’s interior, though simple, provided a comfortable and functional space for passengers. It was a car designed for everyday driving, but with the potential to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.
Overview
The 1968 Ford Falcon, a compact car that was introduced in 1960, marked a significant shift in the model’s design and features. This year witnessed a departure from the previous generation’s design, ushering in a more contemporary and stylish aesthetic.The 1968 model year was particularly noteworthy for the Falcon as it saw the introduction of a completely redesigned body.
This new design incorporated a more modern and sophisticated look, featuring a distinctive grille, a longer hood, and a sleeker profile. The 1968 Falcon was also the first year the model was available with a fastback body style, which added a sporty touch to the car’s overall design.
Design Features and Styling Elements
The 1968 Ford Falcon was characterized by a number of design features and styling elements that set it apart from previous models. These included:
- Distinctive Grille:The 1968 Falcon featured a new, more prominent grille that was designed to give the car a more aggressive and sporty appearance. The grille was made up of a series of horizontal bars, with the Ford emblem prominently displayed in the center.
- Longer Hood:The 1968 Falcon also had a longer hood than its predecessors, which contributed to the car’s more elongated and sleek profile. The longer hood also allowed for the use of larger engines, which were becoming increasingly popular in the late 1960s.
- Sleek Profile:The 1968 Falcon’s body was designed to be more aerodynamic than previous models. The car’s lower profile and streamlined shape helped to improve its fuel efficiency and reduce wind resistance.
- Fastback Body Style:The 1968 Falcon was the first year the model was available with a fastback body style. The fastback design, which featured a sloping rear window, gave the car a sportier look and improved its aerodynamics.
Engine and Performance: 1968 Ford Falcon
The 1968 Ford Falcon offered a range of engine options catering to different driving needs and preferences. Each engine brought its own set of performance characteristics, impacting the overall driving experience.
Engine Options
The 1968 Falcon provided a selection of engines, each designed to meet specific performance requirements.
- 170 cu in (2.8 L) I6:This base engine delivered a modest 120 hp, making it suitable for everyday driving and fuel efficiency. It was the most popular engine choice for the Falcon.
- 200 cu in (3.3 L) I6:Offering 140 hp, this engine provided a noticeable performance boost compared to the base engine. It was a popular choice for those seeking a bit more power without sacrificing fuel economy.
- 289 cu in (4.7 L) V8:This engine was the top-of-the-line option for the Falcon, generating 200 hp. It provided a significant increase in power and acceleration, making it the preferred choice for performance-oriented drivers.
Engine Performance Comparison
Each engine option offered distinct performance characteristics, influencing the Falcon’s driving experience.
The 1968 Ford Falcon, a compact car known for its reliability and affordability, represented a different era of automotive design compared to the iconic 1932 Ford Hot Rod. While the Hot Rod embodies the spirit of customization and raw power, the Falcon embodied practicality and efficiency, reflecting the changing priorities of the American car buyer in the late 1960s.
- 170 cu in (2.8 L) I6:This engine prioritized fuel economy and smooth operation, making it suitable for everyday driving and commuting. It provided a comfortable and efficient driving experience, but it lacked the power and acceleration of the larger engines.
- 200 cu in (3.3 L) I6:This engine offered a balance between power and fuel economy. It provided a noticeable improvement in acceleration and responsiveness compared to the base engine, making it a good choice for those seeking a more spirited driving experience.
- 289 cu in (4.7 L) V8:This engine delivered the most power and acceleration, making it the most performance-oriented option. It provided a thrilling driving experience, but it came at the cost of fuel economy.
Transmission Options
The 1968 Falcon offered a choice of transmissions, each contributing to the overall driving experience.
- Three-speed manual:This transmission was standard on the base models and provided a simple and efficient driving experience. It was well-suited for everyday driving and commuting, but it lacked the responsiveness of the automatic transmissions.
- Three-speed automatic:This transmission was optional and provided a more relaxed driving experience, especially in city driving. It offered smooth shifts and reduced driver input, making it a popular choice for those seeking comfort and ease of use.
- Four-speed manual:This transmission was available on the higher-performance models and provided a more engaging driving experience. It offered precise shifts and better control over engine speed, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts.
Interior and Features
The 1968 Ford Falcon’s interior offered a simple yet functional design, reflecting the car’s overall focus on practicality and affordability. The interior design was straightforward, with a focus on providing a comfortable and functional space for both the driver and passengers.
Interior Design and Layout, 1968 Ford Falcon
The interior layout of the 1968 Falcon was designed with practicality in mind. The dashboard featured a simple layout with easy-to-read gauges and controls. The instrument panel housed a speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and other essential indicators. The steering wheel was typically a two-spoke design, providing a basic but functional grip.
Key Interior Features
The 1968 Falcon offered a range of features depending on the trim level. Some of the key features included:
- Vinyl upholstery:Standard in most models, offering durability and easy cleaning.
- AM radio:A standard feature, allowing for music entertainment during drives.
- Heater and defroster:Providing comfort and visibility in various weather conditions.
- Optional features:Depending on the trim level, options included power steering, air conditioning, and a rear window defroster.
Comfort and Practicality
The 1968 Falcon’s interior provided a comfortable and practical space for its occupants. The seating was designed to provide adequate support and comfort for both driver and passengers. The front seats were generally bench-style, offering ample room for two adults.
The rear seats could accommodate three passengers comfortably, though legroom might be limited for taller individuals. The interior provided a good amount of cargo space for its size, making it suitable for everyday errands and family outings.
Exterior and Design
The 1968 Ford Falcon underwent a significant redesign, marking a departure from the previous generation’s boxy styling. The new model featured a more contemporary and aerodynamic profile, reflecting the evolving design trends of the late 1960s.The 1968 Falcon’s exterior design aimed to appeal to a wider audience, emphasizing both practicality and a touch of sporty flair.
The design elements and trim options offered a range of choices for buyers, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Distinctive Design Elements
The 1968 Falcon’s exterior design incorporated several distinctive elements that set it apart from its predecessors. These elements contributed to the car’s overall appeal and helped it stand out in the crowded compact car market.
- Sleek and Curved Body Lines:The 1968 Falcon’s body lines were more rounded and flowing compared to the previous generation’s angular design. This change gave the car a more modern and aerodynamic appearance, enhancing its visual appeal.
- Larger Grille:The grille was larger and more prominent, featuring a horizontal chrome bar that extended across the entire width of the front end. This design element emphasized the car’s width and gave it a more assertive stance.
- Taillights:The taillights were redesigned with a more rectangular shape and featured a distinctive “cat-eye” design. This design element added a touch of sportiness to the rear end of the car.
- Optional Sporty Trim:For buyers seeking a sportier look, Ford offered optional trim packages that included features like a blacked-out grille, sport wheels, and special badging. These options enhanced the car’s visual appeal and emphasized its performance potential.
Impact on Overall Appeal
The 1968 Falcon’s redesigned exterior played a significant role in its overall appeal. The more contemporary and aerodynamic styling attracted a wider range of buyers, including those seeking a stylish and practical compact car. The availability of various trim options further enhanced the car’s appeal, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles to their liking.The 1968 Falcon’s exterior design contributed to its success in the market, helping it compete effectively against other popular compact cars of the era.
The 1968 Ford Falcon, a compact car that defined a generation, is a stark contrast to its earlier brethren. While the Falcon embraced practicality and affordability, the classic 1931 Ford 5-Window Coupe embodied timeless elegance and craftsmanship. The Falcon, with its boxy design and simple lines, offered a functional approach to transportation, while the 5-Window Coupe showcased a sleek, flowing silhouette that captured the spirit of the era.
Both cars, in their own way, left an indelible mark on automotive history.
The combination of practicality, style, and performance options made it a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers.
Production and Sales
The 1968 Ford Falcon was a popular and successful model, with strong production numbers and sales figures reflecting its appeal to a wide range of buyers. This section will explore the production and sales figures for the 1968 Falcon, identify its key markets and demographics, and examine the factors that contributed to its sales performance.
Production Numbers and Sales Figures
The 1968 Ford Falcon was produced in significant numbers, reflecting its popularity among consumers. According to the Ford Motor Company, a total of 430,766 Falcons were produced during the 1968 model year. This production volume included a range of body styles, including sedans, coupes, and wagons, catering to a diverse customer base.
The sales figures for the 1968 Falcon mirrored its strong production numbers, demonstrating its widespread appeal. A total of 422,378 Falcons were sold in the United States during the 1968 model year, solidifying its position as a popular and successful model.
Key Markets and Demographics
The 1968 Ford Falcon targeted a broad range of buyers, appealing to a variety of demographics and markets. Its affordability, reliability, and practicality made it an attractive option for families, young professionals, and budget-conscious consumers. The Falcon’s versatility, with its range of body styles, further enhanced its appeal to a diverse customer base.
The 1968 Ford Falcon, known for its compact size and affordability, represented a different era in automotive design. While the Falcon offered practicality and fuel efficiency, Ford’s focus shifted towards larger vehicles, culminating in the iconic 1979 Ford F250 , a powerful pickup truck that exemplified the American love for ruggedness and capability.
The Falcon’s legacy, however, continues to resonate with enthusiasts who appreciate its simple design and enduring reliability.
Factors Influencing Sales Performance
Several factors contributed to the 1968 Falcon’s strong sales performance. Its affordability and practicality made it an attractive option for a wide range of buyers, while its reliability and durability reinforced its reputation as a dependable vehicle. The Falcon’s range of body styles and trim levels provided customers with a variety of choices to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Additionally, the Falcon’s reputation for fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs further enhanced its appeal to budget-conscious consumers.
Cultural Impact
The 1968 Ford Falcon, while not as iconic as some of its contemporaries, left its mark on American culture in several ways. It became a symbol of the changing times, representing a shift towards smaller, more fuel-efficient cars, and its affordability made it accessible to a wide range of Americans.
The 1968 Falcon’s Role in American Automotive History
The 1968 Ford Falcon was part of a larger trend in the American automotive industry towards smaller, more fuel-efficient cars. This shift was driven by several factors, including rising fuel prices, concerns about air pollution, and a growing awareness of the need for more efficient transportation.
The Falcon, with its compact size and relatively economical engine, was well-suited to this changing market.
The Falcon’s Lasting Legacy
The 1968 Falcon’s influence can be seen in later Ford models, particularly the compact car segment. The Falcon’s success paved the way for the introduction of other compact models like the Pinto and the Fiesta, which helped Ford maintain its position as a leading automaker in the American market.
The Falcon also inspired other manufacturers to develop their own compact cars, further contributing to the growth of this segment in the American automotive market.
Final Review
The 1968 Ford Falcon stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of American muscle cars. Its iconic design, powerful engine options, and practical features made it a popular choice for drivers of all walks of life. While its production has long since ceased, the Falcon’s influence continues to resonate in the automotive world, inspiring generations of car enthusiasts and leaving an indelible mark on American automotive history.
Whether cruising down a highway or parked in a garage, the 1968 Ford Falcon remains a timeless symbol of American ingenuity and automotive excellence.