Jim Menelaou’s fascination with second-gen Aussie Falcons dates back to his childhood when a ride in an XW sparked his love for the XY model. Fast forward to adulthood, Jim acquired a 302-powered XY Fairmont, which underwent a series of transformations over the years, culminating in a stunning Falcon GT tribute.
The evolution of Jim’s XY can be traced through five distinct stages, from a standard car during his P-plate days to engine upgrades culminating in its current form as one of Australia’s most potent Coyote-powered beasts.
The once white Fairmont now stands as a Wild Violet GT replica, concealing its monstrous power potential under a seemingly innocent exterior. With a twin-turbo Ford Coyote engine pushing out a whopping 1650hp, this XY Falcon is a true powerhouse in disguise.
Jim’s journey to the Coyote engine was paved with gearbox troubles, leading him to opt for a significant engine upgrade. Collaborating with RPG Racing Engines in the US and Adam Rogash of MPW Performance in Melbourne, the decision was made to unleash the full potential of the modular V8.
Installing the forged Coyote engine into the XY’s bay required meticulous planning and modifications, including scalloping the strut towers and relocating the firewall to accommodate the twin G40 turbos. The custom parts and technology applied in this process ensured a seamless fit and optimal performance.
With a focus on maintaining the XY’s factory charm, the interior features a neatly packaged rollcage and custom 3D-printed components. The drivetrain boasts a manualised Turbo 400 gearbox, a nine-inch diff with 35-spline axles, and upgraded suspension and brakes to handle the immense power output.
Jim’s goal of achieving deep sevens with the XY Falcon reflects his passion for high-performance street machines. The combination of the most powerful Coyote engine in Australia and meticulous engineering ensures that this XY is primed for track success and exhilarating street drives.
As Jim revels in the culmination of his dream build, the XY Falcon stands as a testament to his dedication and vision. With the potential to achieve seven-second passes, this twin-turbo Coyote-powered beast is a standout in the realm of custom Australian street machines.
From a childhood fascination to a powerhouse on wheels, Jim Menelaou’s XY Falcon exemplifies the fusion of classic Aussie design with cutting-edge performance, setting a new standard in the realm of custom-built vehicles.