Ford Fairmont (EA169). 1998–2002 (prod. n/a). 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon. F/R, 3949 cm³ (I6 OHC), 4942 cm³ (V8 OHV). Ford’s New Edge styling did not translate well to a full-size car and the EA169 Falcon suffered. The Fairmont, with a more traditional front end, seemed to weather the criticisms better, in that the hastily brought-forward revisions for April 2000 (Series II) followed its shape, rather than the lesser Falcon’s. Big grille up front, as opposed to Falcon Forté’s Mercury-style “waterfall” style. Still a fairly rugged car and a suitable motorway cruiser with more creature comforts than Falcon; but considered less elegant than comparable Holden Berlina and Calais. Series III revisions for November 2001. Last Fairmont with 302 in³ Windsor V8.

Manufacturing locations: Broadmeadows, Victoria, Australia

Marque: Ford | Model page: Ford Fairmont | Predecessor: Ford Fairmont (EL) | Successor: Ford Fairmont (BA)

Off-site link

• ‘Big Aussies’, CAP Online