The 1960 Ford Falcon and Mercury Comet were two of the first compact cars introduced by the Detroit Big Three in response to competition from smaller car manufacturers. These cars were designed to be simple, efficient, and affordable, aiming to appeal to consumers looking for a smaller, more economical option. Both the Falcon and Comet shared the same platform, with the Falcon eventually becoming the basis for several other Ford models over the years.
The Falcon and Comet featured a basic unibody design with a leaf-sprung solid rear axle and a front suspension with coil springs. While they may not have been the most sophisticated cars on the road, they were reliable and durable, serving their owners well for many years. The Comet, being a Mercury model, was slightly more upscale than the Falcon, offering a bit more prestige and better equipment.
Under the hood, the 1960 Falcon and Comet came equipped with a 144-cubic-inch straight-six engine, known as the Mileage Maker Six, Thrift-Power 6, or the Frontenac Short-Stroke Six. While a V8 option became available in 1963, the base engine provided adequate power for everyday driving. The transmission options included a three-on-the-tree manual or a two-speed automatic for an additional cost.
Despite their popularity when they were first introduced, finding a well-preserved early Falcon or Comet today is quite rare. Due to the sheer number of these cars sold and the lack of interest from collectors, many of them have been scrapped or neglected over the years. However, these cars played a significant role in the automotive landscape of the 1960s and left a lasting impact on the industry.
Overall, the 1960 Ford Falcon and Mercury Comet were representative of the shift towards smaller, more economical cars by American automakers. While they may not be as flashy or desirable as some other classic cars from the era, they remain an important part of automotive history. Their simplicity, reliability, and affordability made them popular choices for consumers in the 1960s and beyond.