The 1930s. An era most of us have only read about or if you are of younger age, watched a YouTube video about. An era where the automotive world started to expand and the production of eye drawing, stylish cars for those with the cash excelled. Vintage, attractive designs were cemented in history with long bonnets paired with large grills and sweeping fenders framing gorgeous wire wheels becoming the go to shape for most manufacturers. It was certainly a beautiful era that produced some beautiful cars. 

The JBA Falcon Tourer is a tribute to that time when cars carried a calibre of class. This kit car adopts that seductive styling and places it on something slightly more modern, more powerful, and reliable. Built in 2001, the car uses mainly Ford running gear and is primarily based on the Sierra and Cortina models with this Falcon using the latter. It's in good order inside and out and has been cared for and maintained comprehensively in that period. 

This certainly is a stand-out vehicle that benefits from both classical looks and modern mechanics. 

Purchased as a completed build in 2006, the Falcon has of late resided in a quiet village in Cornwall where it has been used infrequently. Prior to its conversion in 2001, the car started life as a Cortina, with much of its running gear used including the 2.0L Pinto engine.

A folder of invoices documenting most of its work since purchase in ‘06 is present alongside a ‘journal’ of trips carried out by its previous owner, including a 2,000-mile trip through France & Spain. Additionally, past MOTs are present plus a vital kit building instruction manual and handbook.

Inside the open-top beauty, you’re greeted with a tidy blend of walnut and high quality vinyl. The seats were retrimmed professionally and finished in a light grey vinyl which compliments the green exterior and walnut veneer delightfully. 

The JBA kit allows owners to customise the dash however they please, with this owner modifying the previous Ford adopted one to a more suited and classic style using Smiths Instruments, a renowned supplier of vintage gauges. 

The wooden, three-spoke steering wheel adds a sporty edge and ties in with the lower centre console trim nicely. Modern radio and storage compartment hides behind this section, a pleasant attribute to the layout of the vehicle. 

Finished in forever loved British Racing Green the exterior of the car is in fine order with only a few small blemishes which have been photographed. The bumpers, chrome trims, and luggage rack are all in good shape, gleaming pleasantly in the Cornish sunshine. 

There are a few areas where its use and age are starting to show through ever so slightly, mainly the wire wheels which are displaying some surface rust. The overall appearance of the paint is great however, the rich dark green is a perfect colour for this vintage-looking car. The mohair hood included seems to have shrunk ever so slightly and does carry a few scars. 

It does fit with some effort and patience but a sudden downpour will likely cause a bit of upset, especially if the better half is in the passenger seat. Overall, the car is in more than good condition and will no doubt continue to attract attention wherever it ventures. 

During our visit, the Falcon was effortlessly manoeuvred into position for the photographer. The 2.0L Pinto engine fired up without drama and powered the car the short distance with a pleasing sporty sound. The gear changes through the four-speed box appeared painless with first and reverse mainly used. 

A five-speed gearbox is available with the car if any future owner wishes to do the conversion. A Kenlowe electric fan has been fitted to aid engine cooling, additionally, the car has had Twin Weber Carbs installed. Several items have been replaced and renewed since purchasing the car, including suspension and brakes plus a cylinder head refurb, and a new exhaust. 

The mechanics are all reported to be in fine operating condition and an MOT certificate was issued in July 2022.

Antique appearance with modern running gear. The Falcon is an eye-catching kit car that will impress any driver thanks to light build components and the use of Ford components including that renowned Pinto engine. 

This really is a feel-good vehicle that will provide countless hours of enjoyment, a garage must-have, especially for those craving top-down drives in the countryside.