If a "Falcon Bird is an F-16 Falcon, then yes, later models of the F-18 will outfly it.

The original is the F/A-18C/D (Hornet) which is superseded by the F/A-18E/F (Super Hornet). Main differences are in the thrust to weigh ratio, how much more armament the E/F series can hold, and new electronic counter-measure capabilities.

The FA-18E/F (Super Hornet) series has taken over the roles of the F-14D on U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.

The Super Hornet (F/A-18E/F) has not been replaced. It has replaced the F-14D Tomcat and the Hornet (F/A-18C/D). It will eventually replace the E/A-6B Prowler in electronic counter-measure warfare. That model is known as the F/A-18F Growler.

The unit cost for F/A-18 variants. (all Figures in US Dollars) * For the Original F/A-18A/B/C/D : $29-57 million * For the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet : $55.2 million * For the Electronic Warfare EA-18G : $66 million * For the Canadian CF-18 version : $35 million Sources: * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F/A-18_Hornet - for F/A-18A/B/C/D * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F/A-18E/F_Super_Hornet - for F/A-18E/F Super Hornet * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EA-18G_Growler - for the EA-18G * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CF-18 - for the CF-18 Sources (Français / French) (for the French Canadians) * http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/CF-18_Hornet - Pour le CF-18 canadien