Oz gold - 1973 Ford Falcon XA GT Hard Top RPO 83

120 XA GT hardtops with the option code of RPO 83 (Regular Production Option) were built. An Australian-made version of the 351 Cleveland, a mighty 5.8L V8, pumped out 300hp. The RPO 83 package added a Holley 780 carburetor, 2.25-inch exhaust headers and a clutch slave cylinder hydraulic pipe heat shield for added performance.

The car appeared at Grays July Classic Car Auction. The last owner paid $7,000 for it. The price was higher when the hammer fell. It made $300k.

For 32 years the XA Falcon had been stored in a shed surrounded by chicken wire to keep pigeons away. The nickname ‘Chicken Coupe’ was born. The original owner had purchased the car new in 1973, paying $7,000 for it.

The car was sentimental, and he wouldn't sell it. It stayed stored behind chicken wire until his estate put the car up for auction in 2020.