What are the origins of the Rebel name in the Falcon line-up?
In 2001 Ford released a limited edition model in the Falcon AU range, the AUII XR8 Rebel. This had a Tickford enhanced version of the Windsor V8 that developed 220kw. Tickford Engineering were the performance division of Ford Australia.
Only 125 AUII XR8 Rebels were built.
Only 125 AUII XR8 Rebels were built.
Besides the 220kw motor the AUII XR8 Rebel model had other premium features. This is how an advertisement from the time described it: "This V8 supercar also comes with extra features like a Momo steering wheel, Momo gear knob, 18" speedline alloy wheels, and a Ford racing body kit".
The AUII Rebel body kit had grey inserts just like it's later relative the BF Rebel. And just like the earlier Rebel, the BF Rebel has 18" alloy wheels.
The limited edition AUII XR8 Rebels are a desirable car and have increased in collectability, commanding higher prices than the standard AU's.
The limited edition AUII XR8 Rebels are a desirable car and have increased in collectability, commanding higher prices than the standard AU's.
This was the type of heritage that Ford New Zealand were hearkening back to, when they issued the limited edition New Zealand BF Rebel model.