First Generation | 1960–1963
Trim | Production | Engine | Power | Transmissions | Drivetrain |
Base | 1960 – 1963 | 2.4L Mileage Maker Straight-6 | 95 HP / 96 PS / 70 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 2-Speed Automatic | RWD |
Futura | 1961 – 1963 | 2.8L Mileage Maker Straight-6 | 101 HP / 102 PS / 75 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 2-Speed Automatic | RWD |
Futura (4-Door, Convertible, Sports Convertible & Wagon) | 1963 | 4.3L Challenger V8 | 164 HP / 165 PS / 122 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 2-Speed Automatic | RWD |
The 1960 Ford Falcon featured a lightweight 95-hp, 144 CID Mileage Maker straight-six engine and a unibody construction with coil spring front suspension and leaf spring rear suspension. It offered two- and four-door sedans, station wagons, and a car-based pickup called the Ranchero. The market shift towards smaller cars led to the introduction of the Falcon and its competitors, as larger vehicles became more expensive. The Falcon’s success prompted General Motors to develop the Chevy II based on similar principles.
Overall, the Falcon’s compact size, fuel efficiency, and various body styles made it a popular choice for consumers during a time when smaller cars were in demand. Its success set the stage for further developments in the automotive industry and influenced the design of future Ford models, including the iconic Mustang.