The Ford Falcon, a nameplate in production longer than even the Mustang, ended production Oct. 7 after 56 years. No Falcons were built in the U.S. after 1971, but the car lived on through several more generations in Australia, remaining true to its original layout: straight-six-powered and rear-wheel drive.

The last Falcon was also the last Ford to be built in Australia, ending 91 years of production there. Few Australian Falcons have been exported, but the 1970s version became a worldwide icon thanks to the first Mad Max movie. The last Falcon, a blue XR6 sedan, will be displayed in a museum.

"Today is an emotional day for the entire team of Ford Australia," Ford Australia CEO Graeme Whickman told reporters outside the plant.

"We are saying goodbye to some wonderful manufacturing colleagues who have done a great deal for Ford in Australia," Whickman said, according to an Associated Press report.

High production costs, a limited market, unfavorable exchange rates and intense competition have forced Ford and other automakers to end production in Australia. General Motors plans to build its last car there next year.

"End of the line for a road warrior" was originally published at Automotive News on 10/18/16.

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