FPV GT 2013 Overview

We pay attention to the newest and brightest stars in the automotive world, asking the questions you want answered. But there's only one question that really needs to be answered - would you buy it?

WHAT IS THIS?

The perfect Falcon GT and the last of the Ford Performance Vehicles that have recently been returned to the fold. From now on, they roll off the same assembly line as the other Falcons at Broadmeadows.

HOW MUCH?

Wait for him . . . $76,990. That's too expensive for a car that doesn't even have power seats, let alone a driver's window with auto-up. The question is. . . Does the performance alone justify the price?

WHAT ARE COMPETITORS?

HSV GTS and, to a lesser extent, Chrysler SRT8 300. After that, you can add just about anything that's quick and attractive.

WHAT'S UNDER THE HOOD?

Supercharged 5.0-liter V8 with 335kW and 570Nm of torque. The RSPEC features recalibrated suspension, new wider 9-inch rear wheels with Dunlop Sports Maxx 275/35 R19 tires and a first in FPV Launch Control.

HOW DOES IT GO?

The sleeping beast is waiting to be awakened. Step on the accelerator and the car spins like a big cat, with a roar and lots of sound effects from the Harrop supercharger.

IS IT ECONOMICAL?

Barely. Most of the time we traveled up and down the motorway, and the all-too-short session stretched our legs on winding back roads. With a consumption of 13.7 liters per 100 km, we got 14.8 at the end of 500 km, this also requires a premium class.

IS IT GREEN?

Gets 3 out of 5 stars in Govt's Green Vehicle Guide (Prius gets 5).

IT'S SAFE?

No problems. Like the Falcon, it gets a maximum of five stars with the same safety gear, including electronic traction and stability control.

IT'S COMFORTABLE?

It's the Falcon, which means yes. But little has been done to isolate the driver from the noise, vibration and harshness that comes with machines like these that tire you out after a while.

WHAT IS DRIVE?

In black with red accents, including red wheels, it looks amazing and is a real eye-catcher. Other drivers also show great respect for the car by driving off the road without waiting to be asked. The handling of this model is excellent, with good grip in corners, which inspires confidence.

IS THIS VALUE FOR PRICE?

Not really. For that kind of money, you get behind the wheel of a lot of other cars, but perhaps none of them has the same appeal.

WOULD WE BUY ONE?

In the coming years, such cars will be spoken of with reverence. The environment just can't support them anymore, so if you want to, you'd better hurry. Something to tell your grandchildren.

Limited Edition FPV GT RSPEC

Cost: from $ 76,990

Guarantee: 3 years/100,000 km

Accident Rating:  5-star ANKAP

Engine: 5.0-liter 8-cylinder, 335 kW / 570 Nm

Transmission: 6-speed automatic; 6-speed manual rear wheel drive

Dimensions: 4970 mm (L), 1868 mm (W), 1453 mm (H)

Thirst: 13.7 l / 100 km 324 g / km CO2