Choosing an appropriate project candidate is often challenging, but this 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 XL Convertible deserves more than a passing glance. Its mechanical specifications promise respectable performance with scope to extract performance gains from the V8 under the hood. The interior is freshly restored, and it could be ideal for someone considering a first-time project build. The seller has listed the Fairlane here on eBay in Fair Oaks, California. Bidding sits below the reserve at $5,625 with time remaining for interested parties to stake their claim.
Ford introduced the Fairlane badge to its model range in 1955 as a replacement for the Crestline. It remained an integral part of the company’s catalog until 1970, with the Fifth Generation gracing showroom floors in 1966 and 1967. This latest model featured more aggressive styling than its predecessor, mimicking the Galaxie with its stacked headlamps. This first-year example is a 500 XL Convertible that was ordered by the original owner in Sauterne Gold. The seller is candid about its presentation, indicating that the paint is tired, and that the panels have accumulated a healthy selection of dings and dents. However, there is no evidence of rust, meaning that steel replacement may not be required as part of any restoration. The power top isn’t perfect, but with Haartz Pinpoint Vinyl tops with a plastic rear window retailing for under $600, addressing this shortcoming isn’t an expensive exercise. Otherwise, the bright trim looks acceptable for a driver-grade restoration, and the glass appears okay.
One aspect of this Fairlane that needs little attention is its interior. The seller confirms that it received a recent retrim in the correct vinyl, and finding anything to criticize about its appearance is seemingly impossible. Some painted surfaces might benefit from a refresh, but that is about as bad as it gets inside this classic. The Fairlane features a factory AM radio, with aftermarket additions including a timber wheel, a Fairlane GT console, a Hurst shifter, a column-mounted tachometer, and an inoperative underdash gauge cluster.
Ford’s 1966 Sales Brochure confirms that the 289ci V8 hiding under the hood of this Fairlane should generate a respectable 200hp. The original transmission has made way for a four-speed Top Loader that feeds the power to a 3.55 “Posi” rear end. The steering benefits from power assistance, with the seller stating that the unassisted four-wheel drum brakes stop the car surprisingly well. The Convertible recently received a new two-barrel carburetor, ceramic-coated headers, and a Magnaflow dual exhaust. The engine starts and runs okay, but the seller states that it is beginning to feel tired. It sounds like a rebuild is on the agenda, with the suspension in need of similar attention. However, pulling the V8 for a rebuild would provide the ideal opportunity to detail the engine bay within an inch of its life before slotting the motor back in.
Summer is fast receding, which may make now seem like the wrong time to purchase a classic Convertible. However, nothing could be further from the truth. This 1966 Fairlane 500 XL could be an ideal winter project, representing a productive and rewarding way to occupy the upcoming cold months. That means that when the sun pokes its head through the clouds, it is ready for some top-down touring. That prospect sounds tempting, and I will understand if we have readers who yield to that temptation.
Looks like a nice drivable project. Probably rust free or nearly so, 4spd and correct console, convertible, AC, bucket seats. I’d put on a 4bbl carb and intake, maybe track down a vintage set of Torque Thrusts, get the top working and drive it. If the reserve isn’t too high you might be able to have a great cruiser for a reasonable cost. There is no overriding need to restore it, that just adds substantial to the cost and relegates it to a life parked in the garage other than an occasional trip to a coffee and cars.
Steve R
Agreed 👍 Steve on adding the 4 barrel. 4sp, dual exhaust, 3.55s already in place. It will really move out nicely w the added punch.
I liked the big Galaxies featured awhile back but this makes more sense as a project and a daily driver, at least in the summer. Too bad it’s so far away.
Nice car however at current bid of $11,000 I think it’s already hit its value but it still hasn’t cracked the reserve I guess this is one you get the sellers contact information and then see if you can come to a agreement on a price outside of evil bay.
As much as I love convertibles, the 66 Fairlane looked a lot better in the two-door hardtop version.
A 289 with a 4 speed a is a great set up! It has enough power to get moving quickly and to comfortably maintain highway speeds while returning 20 or so miles per gallon. Nice car and write up.
A/C? I see a compressor but no evaporator unit in the car. This had under dash A/C and someone tossed it to add a non- factory installed (black) console.
I hope the rest of the removed A/C parts are included.
Good catch!
I had a friend in the mid 70’s who bought a light blue ’66 Fairlane 500 convertible from the ‘back row’ at a Minneapolis dealership. It had the 289/auto combo, and seemed to run forever between fill-ups. There was some exterior rust on it, but it still looked presentable. He fell in love with the car, and was thinking of restoring it. Mechanically it was a gem, but when he had an auto restorer look at it, a red flag was thrown. There was way too much rust on the underside to make it a viable candidate for restoration. If it had been undercoated when new, it would have been a different story. Whoever buys this fairly rust free vehicle will be so lucky. A very nice example!
Ended at $15,100.
Reserve Not Met.
I’m not a Ford guy but it’s a convertable with A/C and a 4-speed. Like other comments add a 4 barrel set up for a little more power!