Ford Performance Vehicles GT & GT-P Part 8

The Verdict: Overall: 4.5/5

After driving the XR6 Turbo, which is the first BA Falcon I've driven, I didn't think it could get much better, but Ford Performance Vehicles proved me well and truly wrong with the tuned GT and GT-P.

First is the value: Both these cars represent better value than their 300kW HSV equivalents, and the new BA Falcon's depreciation rate is improving compared to that of the outgoing AU.

Second is performance: Both these FPV sports sedans go, stop and turn with such ease and composure, you began to forget your in large car - both cars have a feel that belies their abundance of bulk. The drive is always involving and it's hard not to smile when punting these cars around.

Third is the look: They are tough, yet slightly understated and could well become the thinking man's hooligan car, with the brawn to backup such subtle beauty.
At the end of the day, there's a lot to like about these two FPV V8s and the only major gripe will be when it comes time to refuel and the lack of ground clearance. The manual is more efficient when driven softly, but this shortcoming can be overlooked in the face of everything else, and for a 5.4-litre V8, it doesn't too badly.

In terms of bang for your buck however, these two have outdone themselves, and the Pursuit Ute at less than $55,000 is an absolute bargain. Ford Performance Vehicles has unleashed a pair of muscle cars that, for its first effort, are wickedly potent in every respect. HSV, it's your move.

"Respect the bulge."