Patina Project: 1964 Ford Falcon Wagon

Some project candidates leave potential buyers spoiled for choice, and this 1964 Ford Falcon Station Wagon is all that and more. The seller has eliminated the worst of its rust problems and slotted in a larger engine to improve the performance of this turnkey classic. However, they offer several tempting mechanical and interior alternatives for potential buyers to consider. Perhaps its greatest attribute is its affordability, making it irresistible to an enthusiast with limited finances. Those factors justify a closer look.

Ford introduced the Falcon to the waiting world in 1960 as the first compact model produced by The Big Three. Its Second Generation hit showroom floors for the 1964 model year, and while it shared its predecessor’s underpinnings, Ford blessed it with sharper and more aggressive styling. The first owner ordered this 1964 Station Wagon in Skylight Blue, and there is no denying the paint looks very tired. It is worn and baked, carrying the hallmarks of a classic that spent most of its days under the blazing Texas sun. It is a prime candidate for a cosmetic refresh, although some may elect to preserve its survivor credentials. It has rust issues requiring attention, but the seller addressed the worst of these before listing it for sale. The Falcon features new floor pans. However, there are still spots in the lower extremities and spare wheel well for the buyer to tackle. They aren’t severe, and a few well-crafted patches should see them right. The bumpers show their age with developing corrosion and a few dings, but the remaining trim and the hubcaps should respond positively to polish.

Lifting the hood brings us to the first decision for potential buyers to make. The first owner ordered this Wagon with the entry-level 170ci six, teaming it with a three-speed manual transmission. The motor produced 101hp and 156 ft/lbs of torque in its prime, providing acceptable performance for a family Wagon. However, the seller pulled the tired 170 and bolted in a 200ci powerplants. This boosts power and torque to 116hp and 175 ft/lbs, resulting in a corresponding performance improvement. The buyer could leave things untouched because the Falcon is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives well. However, the seller rebuilt the 170 and dropped it into a Falcon Convertible. It is in excellent health, and they will swap it back if the buyer craves originality. They don’t mention an associated cost, but it is an option that some may consider as part of a faithful restoration.

Describing this Falcon’s interior as sad would not be overstating the case. It is as tired and baked as you might typically expect from any classic that spent years exposed to harsh UV rays. The back seat might be okay in the short-term, but with the vinyl showing distress, a complete interior retrim appears to be the only option. However, there is another choice for potential buyers if originality isn’t a prime consideration. The seller indicates that the same Convertible housing this Wagon’s original motor also has a nice set of front bucket seats that could be swapped in. Once again, they don’t mention a price, but it might be worth asking the question.

The seller listed this 1964 Ford Falcon Station Wagon here on eBay in San Diego, California. They set their price at $5,400, with the option to make an offer. That makes it undeniably affordable, and it appears that a competent enthusiast could tackle many of the shortcomings in a home workshop. That leaves the questions of the engine and seats. Would you pursue those items further, or would you enjoy this classic in its current form?