Hidden Treasure: An Original 1972 XA Ford Falcon GT Resurfaces After 20 Years in Storage

Phil November 22, 2024 3 min read

Today, Aussie Garage had the pleasure of interviewing a dedicated car enthusiast who owns an original 1972 XA Ford Falcon GT—an Australian classic that has survived the test of time and has a history as rich as the outback it came from. This unique piece of motoring history, which sat in a shed for over 20 years, has changed hands through seven owners and tells a captivating story spanning the Goldfields of Western Australia to the present day.

A Childhood Dream Realized

For the current owner, this XA GT is more than just a car; it’s a lifelong dream come true. At only seven years old, he remembers sitting in the car for the first time. Unbeknownst to him, that seemingly ordinary moment would turn into a personal journey intertwined with the Falcon’s history. His family worked at Westland Autos in the Goldfields, where they also serviced this very car—a connection that has only strengthened his bond with the vehicle.

The Transformation of a Classic

Originally finished in the rare factory shade of Wild Violet with white trim, the XA Falcon GT later underwent a transformation. Due to paint fading over time, the car was resprayed by Melville Motors in Perth in Onyx Black with silver accents before it was sold to its third owner. The vehicle was put away in storage by its fourth owner, who kept it hidden from view for over two decades, leaving it a hidden gem until its fifth owner brought it back to life by restoring the interior and detailing the exterior. The sixth owner then completed the look by respraying the bonnet and side mirrors, finalizing the design initiated by Melville Motors.

Despite the modifications, this XA GT remains a true survivor—a numbers-matching vehicle with less than 80,000 kilometers on the original engine. Remarkably, the car’s interior remains mostly original, with only the carpet, hood lining, and seat covers replaced due to wear during its extended stay in storage.

A Piece of History Preserved

While the XA Falcon GT isn’t currently registered—preserving its low mileage—the owner has big plans for it. A full concourse restoration is in the works, aiming to return the car to its original factory specifications. In the meantime, it remains a hidden treasure, rarely seen by the public. Aussie Garage is honored to have been given a rare glimpse of this iconic XA GT and to share its story with fellow enthusiasts.

This XA Ford Falcon GT is a reminder of the timeless appeal of classic cars and the passion of enthusiasts who work to keep their stories alive. We look forward to seeing this Wild Violet gem restored to its former glory and appreciate the owner’s generosity in sharing this beautiful piece of Australian automotive history with Aussie Garage.