Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
The 1978 Ford Falcon XC Cobra holds a special place in Australian automotive history, born from a triumphant motorsport victory. Inspired by Allan Moffat and Colin Bond’s dominant 1-2 finish at the grueling 1977 Bathurst 1000 race, Edsel Ford II sought to commemorate this achievement with a limited-edition, Shelby-inspired model. The Falcon Cobra represented the final iteration of the two-door hardtop body style as production of the XC series drew to a close, making its limited run of just 400 sequentially numbered units even more significant. This particular example, #349, is one of only 199 specified with the desirable 302ci V8 engine and was originally sold through Jubilee Motors in New South Wales.
Distinctive Cobra Styling: All 400 Falcon Cobras were instantly recognizable by their unique and bold visual treatment. They were all finished in a striking Sno White paint scheme, contrasted by prominent lower bodywork and distinctive over-the-top stripes rendered in Bold Blue with a Light Blue edging. This iconic color combination extended to the front spoiler, tail panel, rear spoiler, and bumpers, creating a cohesive and sporty appearance. Adding to the visual impact were Cobra fender decals and the Cobra logotype proudly displayed on the decklid, clearly identifying this special edition model. This car still proudly wears its original New South Wales license plates, a testament to its heritage.
Exterior Details and Modifications: Beyond the Cobra-specific styling, this Falcon features twin hood scoops, painted mirror housings, practical roll-down quarter windows, and a stylish concave rear window. Dual exhaust outlets hint at the V8 power beneath the hood. The right side of the car has undergone partial refinishing under the current ownership. A minor imperfection to note is a chip present in the windshield.
Chassis and Handling: This XC Cobra rides on Bathurst Globe 15” alloy wheels, a period-correct and sporty choice, now fitted with 205/70 Hankook Kinergy ST tires manufactured in 2024, ensuring good grip and a comfortable ride. Factory-equipped with power steering, this Cobra offers ease of maneuverability. Furthermore, it came standard with the added benefit of four-wheel disc brakes, providing confident stopping power. The front control arms and linkages have been recently replaced, with the removed parts included in the sale.
Interior Appointments: The right-hand-drive cabin features comfortable front bucket seats and a rear bench, both trimmed in black cloth accented with blue stripes, echoing the exterior color scheme. The black dashboard, center console, door panels, and carpets create a purposeful and sporty interior environment. Factory options include desirable air conditioning for comfortable cruising and a push-button radio. Front occupants are equipped with three-point seatbelts for added safety. It’s noted that the Clarion cassette head unit, mounted to the right of the steering column, is currently not functional. A special plaque on the glove compartment lid proudly identifies this car as #349 of the limited production run.
Instrumentation and Mileage: The driver is faced with a two-spoke steering wheel framing a metric instrument cluster, featuring a 220-kmh speedometer and a 6k-rpm tachometer, essential for monitoring the engine’s performance. Additional gauges display oil pressure, fuel level, and coolant temperature. The six-digit odometer currently shows 121k kilometers, which translates to approximately 75k miles.
Engine and Performance Upgrades: Under the hood lies the sought-after 302ci V8 engine, which has been enhanced with several performance upgrades. These include an Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor and Performer intake manifold, a custom-ground camshaft from Wade Camshafts for improved engine breathing, and tri-Y long-tube exhaust headers that feed into a dual exhaust system complete with a crossover pipe. These modifications likely contribute to increased horsepower and torque. The selling dealer has noted some smoke emanating from the exhaust upon start-up. The original removed intake manifold and a Carter Thermo-Quad carburetor are included in the sale.
Drivetrain: Power from the modified 302ci V8 is transmitted to the rear wheels through a robust three-speed automatic transmission. This Cobra was also optioned from the factory with a limited-slip differential, enhancing traction and putting the power down effectively.
Documentation and Extras: This rare Falcon XC Cobra is accompanied by valuable documentation, including an Australian Classic Car History Services report which confirms its build date as September 1978 and details its original factory equipment and identification numbers. A build sheet further verifies its specifications. The sale also includes framed limited-edition prints, a binder filled with records and other historical items, a removed Ford-branded cassette player, various additional spare parts, and tools. The Washington title carries a “Classic” brand, further recognizing its historical significance.
Summary:
- #349 of 400 1978 Ford Falcon XC Cobras produced.
- One of 199 equipped with a 302ci V8 engine.
- Upgraded with Edelbrock carburetor and intake, Wade camshaft, and long-tube headers.
- Three-speed automatic transmission and limited-slip differential.
- Finished in Sno White with Bold Blue and Light Blue stripes.
- Features front and rear spoilers, 15” alloy wheels, and four-wheel disc brakes.
- Right-hand-drive cabin with black and blue striped cloth upholstery.
- Includes build sheet, history report, extra parts, and framed prints.
- Washington title with a Classic brand.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
AI Assistance: Gemini
