SY F6X 270

FORD PERFORMANCE VEHICLES’ first foray into non-Falcon derived vehicles was realised early in 2008 in the shape of the F6X 270.

Based on the range-topping SY Territory Ghia Turbo AWD, the F6X 270 was also the most powerful six-cylinder SUV available in Australia at the time.

Compared to the Territory Turbo that spawned it, most of the exterior and interior changes are minor.

Under the bonnet beats the BFII F6 Typhoon sedan and Tornado utility’s 4.0-litre twin-cam in-line six-cylinder petrol engine – mated solely to an unchanged ZF six-speed sequential shift automatic gearbox.

It features a series of mechanical-related changes designed to differentiate the FPV from its “Hammerhead” Territory Turbo mother car.

In the F6X installation, the turbo-charger is a Garrett GT3540, working in unison with an aluminium air-to-air intercooler.

As with the Territory Turbo, drive is delivered to all four wheels permanently using Ford’s Acutrac system. The rear-wheel drive model was not considered, namely as it does not come with a six-speed gearbox.

As its name suggests, the F6X 270’s 3984cc unit delivers 270kW of power at 5000rpm and 550Nm of torque between 2000 and 4250rpm. The previous most powerful Territory derivative, the Turbo, produces 245kW and 480Nm.

Running on 95 RON unleaded petrol, the F6X 270’s ADR81-01 fuel consumption is rated at 14.9L/100km while the comparative carbon dioxide emissions rating is 357g/km. Towing capacity is 2300kg.

FPV says it spent in excess of 2500 hours testing, including hot and cold climate validation, with full engine mapping and recalibration carried out on a dynometer for fuel, spark timing and boost control.

While the F6X uses the Territory’s sophisticated virtual pivot control link front and Control Blade multi-link rear suspension set-up, alterations include retuned damper and spring settings, for a “firmer, sports feel, which further enhances the primary ride control of the vehicle.”On the braking side, an upgrade sees front Brembo six piston calipers working with 15mm larger (355mm x 32mm) ventilated rotors, while the rears are enhanced with 328mm x 26mm ventilated rotors with single piston sliding calipers.

With the help of supplier Bosch, a recalibrated stability control system (DSC in Ford-speak) results in a higher – as well as an altered – intervention threshold.

FPV said that it would make 601 vehicles in 2008.