SVO Australia
SVO was created in Australia by Australian motor racing driver and engineer Mick Webb in the late 1980s. Dick Johnson also used the SVO nameplate, originally on modified XF Falcons. Webb and Johnson both claimed ownership of the acronym, however it was Webb whom first registered its usage. Mick modified new Ford EA Falcons (with "S Pac" or "Fairmont Ghia" base) with customised ROH 16" wheels, Recaro seats, MoMo steering wheels, suspension upgrades including Bilstein shock absorbers, engine modifications, spoilers and two tone grey paint work.
At the time, Ford were not investing in V8 or sports modifications and the relationship didn't evolve further. Tickford Vehicle Engineering, an English company, were contracted to perform enhancements to Ford sedans, leading to the XR sports models.
SVO produced 1600 Falcon Sedans, 1100 Ute's, 600 Fairlanes and 280 Capri's.
Melbourne and Sydney dealership records indicate that 5 SVO NL Fairlanes were produced between 1997 - 1998. Several EL XR8 and EL Fairmont Ghias were also produced. These vehicles employed a mix of EL GT, Ghia and parts bin accessories rather than a specific design, and were reviewed in Motor and Wheels magazines in 1997.
Mick Webb & SVO are still enhancing and modifying Ford products today.
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