FPV Typhoon 2005 Review

No matter which way you cut it, the Typhoon is a quicker drive and more engaging as well.

But it doesn't have the legendary status nor the booming V8 exhaust note of the GT.

Is that worth an extra three grand – to many, probably yes.

At $61,350, the 290kW GT II is near the top of Ford Australia's food chain surpassed only by the GT-P which is about $70 grand.

The GT commands respect wherever it goes. Other drivers move over, don't cut in and generally treat the car with deference. It's a good feeling for a change.

The same isn't really evident when you're in an HSV model.

It would make an interesting study in psychology.

This is the second generation Falcon BA GT and ushers in a new six speed manual, suspension revisions (stiffer springs), interior enhancements and other minor changes. The 5.4-litre engine remains the same.

It's nothing substantial but enough to tweak the GT from good to better.

The six speed manual, a Tremec T56, is tailor-made to suit Ford specifications with close ratios and a short change mechanism.

In practical terms, the previous five speeder had longer runs through each gear and allowed the engine's torque to run free.

With the six speeder, top is really only any use on the freeway and the lower ratios have a shorter run. But fuel economy is better averaging about 14.3-litres/ 100km with mixed driving. That's impressive for a high performance V8 sports sedan.

The GT rolls on high performance Dunlop rubber mounted on 18in alloys. The spare is full size.

Handling is impressive for a vehicle weighing more than 1.8 tonnes. It feels like a big car but steers with precision and holds a line through bends beautifully. Bumps don't faze the GT.

Massive Brembo brakes make light work of repetitive high speed stops.

It's good for low five second 0-100kmh sprints and throttle response from about 4000rpm up to the over- rev beeper at close to six grand is inspiring.

The interior has Fairmont Ghia plus specification and includes twin instrument pods on the dash.

Driving the GT is easy with light controls and a smooth delivery but the front seats are too high, even in the lowest setting and the metal gear knob and starter button become stove hot in summer sun. From a personal point of view, I would like to see Cobra style twin stripes over the middle of the car from front to back. That way it would have more "wow" factor. And after all, what is the primary reason for buying one of these cars?