1999 Ford XH II Ford Falcon XR8 Ute: Worlds worst door handles

This immaculate 1999 Ford XH II Ford Falcon XR8 Ute has recently been listed on Carsales, and it’s a prime example of the very first XR8 Ute.

Background

If your an Aussie Ford fan, you already know the deal. It was the late 80’s, and Ford Australia were cash strapped. Despite that, in 1989 they managed to piece together a brand new sedan and wagon titled the EA. Missing were two things- a V8 and a ute.

Usually a ute (and Panelvan for that matter) would be release alongside the sedan and wagon, as was the case for all previous Falcons (from the XK). But cash flow meant an all new EA ute never arose. Rather, the previous XF ute would be continued on.

Fast forward 10 years, and basically the same ute was still in production. It had had a facelift during the mid nineties that aligned with the release of the EF, and a more modern driveline. However underneath it was still the same XF, shitty door handles and all. By now, Ford had managed to re-introduce a V8 to their Falcon line up- the ancient but iconic Windsor. Only offered as more of a “tow spec” in the utes, it wasn’t the fire breather some had hoped for. If you wanted a quick ute, you instead needed to opt for the XR6, which featured the sweet 4.0 Tickford six. Either that, or buy a Holden SS Ute.

Then, in October 1997 Ford released the XH II- with the inclusion XR8 ute. Finally, a hot V8 Ford Ute for the people. It copped an EL XR8 style nose cone and slightly warmer Windsor 5.0.

Why it’s cool

This XH II is almost perfect, bar the absence of a manual gearbox. One owner, and low kilometres (for a falcon), the owner has even included a photo of them doing the deal back in 1999. I love that! Reminds me of going with my dad to pickup his new cars back in the day. Additionally, it came optioned with bodykit, Momo wheel and obligatory tow pack.

It now wears a set of 20″ Simmons, which I would probably flog off for some original shark fins. Inside a more modern stereo has been fitted, and underneath you’ll find a better exhaust to let the little Windsor breath. Price is pretty reasonable at $19k.

I always thought the XR8 Ute really struggled it’s whole life. First, there was this, the XH II, a car that was already 18 years old and had an engine from the 60’s. Then came the AU, which was ridiculed for it’s looks and still had the same 60’s V8 (albeit with GT40 heads). Then ofcourse the BA-FG XR8 Utes, which lived in the shadows of its XR6 Turbo stable mate. And just when Ford got there hands on a decent V8, the Coyote, they scrapped the XR8 Ute all together. Talk about a struggle!

Still, I have always appreciated them for some reason. Maybe because they were always the underdog?

How can I buy it?

If you’re interested, head to Carsales to find this 1999 Ford XH II Ford Falcon XR8 Ute here.

1999 Ford XH II Ford Falcon XR8 Ute: In the owner’s own words

Ford Falcon XR8 Tickford ute
XH 11 (Series 2) XR8 Ute
Automatic.
FEB 1999 Built

Just under 93,000kms (~4,500/yr)

Ordered with the Tickford Body Kit and Momo Steering Wheel & tow pack

My father and I ordered this new from Compass Ford in Bunbury WA in 1999.
It was one of the last available and ordered specifically in Regency Red

This is not a restored, touched up vehicle. It is an “all original”, “perfect as new” example. We have meticulously looked after this vehicle since purchasing new.
The paint is original and the only item repainted is the front lower lip to remove years of driveway underside rash. (Completed 2018)
Professionally lowered on reset springs with upgraded nolathane bushes.

Tape deck replaced with CD unit in the first month of ownership (sorry but I do not have the original)
Currently sits on 20” Simmons wheels ($4,500). These have been on for around 1’000kms. (I do not have the original wheels sorry). Wheels ordered specifically for the XH ute.

Tarp was removed years ago as I like the look without. Matching painted plugs installed into the holes meaning it can be returned to a tarp if wanted with zero fuss.
There is no rust and only a very few marks on what would be a 9.5/10 paint job.
I have just installed a new 2.5” exhaust system with hi-flow Cats and a turbo muffler.
A recent service with plug and lead replacement with NOS leads to keep original. New Battery.

Everything works as intended.
These are rare (only 624 made) and near impossible to find in this condition. I do appreciate it will only be a small market that is interested. Please keep offers to yourself. If you truly want this piece of history you will pick up the phone and discuss with me.

I am only selling as I simply do not use it and struggle to justify another registration and Insurance going forwards. However, I am far from desperate to sell so non genuine enquiries won’t be responded to.
It would be sad to see it go, and the new owner will not be disappointed.