NA Fairlane and DA LTD

The EA Falcon-based Fairlane and LTD saw the biggest changes to date.

Ford had once again rediscovered the advantages of differentiating the styling from its Falcon donor – but once again Fairlane and LTD were only cosmetically different.

A striking, American-influenced body design heralded better aerodynamics, more interior space and improved ergonomics, while upgraded mechanicals ran to re-engineered I6 engines featuring overhead-cam (OHC) design, new front suspension, a change to rack and pinion steering and fuel injection across the range.

The old three-speed auto gearbox carried on. Early quality glitches affected the cars’ reputation, though scores of improvements were continuously implemented.

The only engine available was the new 139kW multi-point EFI 3.9-litre OHC six-cylinder unit. A troublesome self-levelling suspension system was also introduced.

All models now featured climate control air-con, alloy wheels, fully adjustable steering column, split/fold rear seats, and upgraded audio systems.

The Fairlane had a controversial body-coloured egg-crate grille until May ‘89, when Ford chromed it instead, while the LTD retained its more dignified vertical number.