Although buyers could order a 1963 Ford Fairlane 500 with a V8 under the hood, none left the factory with the 302ci motor powering our feature car. The seller has worked away on this classic for two years to return it to a drivable state, leaving the buyer to add the finishing touches. The engine is only the first of many changes that will improve the Fairlane’s road manners, which is never bad when the driver has additional power at their disposal. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this Ford listed here on Craigslist in Salem, Oregon. Handing the seller $11,500 will allow someone to drive this beauty home.

Vehicle manufacturers during the 1960s strived to produce cars to fulfill the tastes and needs of as many potential buyers as possible. Ford introduced the Fourth Generation Fairlane range in 1962, positioning it between the compact Falcon and the larger Galaxie. Buyers would eventually be able to choose from four body styles, with the Two-Door Hardtop arriving for the 1963 model year. This Hardtop features an iconic color combination of Corinthian White and Rangoon Red, and its presentation is very acceptable for any buyers seeking a driver-grade classic. The color appears consistent, with no major paint or panel imperfections, and no evidence of rust. The seller tubbed the rear wheel wells to accommodate the larger wheels and tires, while there are no obvious problems with the trim or the glass.

Ford offered 1963 Fairlane buyers a choice of three V8 engines to power their new purchase. However, it is interesting that the mid-year introduction of the 289ci powerplant doesn’t receive a mention in that year’s Sales Brochure. The fender badges suggest that the first owner ordered this car with a 260ci motor, but that is now nothing but a distant memory. A later 302ci V8 now occupies the engine bay, backed by a four-speed manual transmission. This V8 probably won’t pack the same punch as the 289 that delivered 271hp, but it should still provide pretty respectable performance. Observant readers will probably notice that this car has no front shock towers. These were removed when the seller installed a front end from a Mustang II, adding front disc brakes and power steering for an improved driving experience. I am not impressed with the plates that have been installed to fill the holes left after the shock tower removal, as the weld quality appears substandard. That is a problem that I would address at some point to improve the overall presentation. The seller states that the Fairlane runs and drives well, making it a turnkey proposition for potential buyers.

One aspect of the Fairlane that appears to require no immediate attention is the interior. The Black vinyl-upholstered surfaces look excellent, and the paint is crisp and clean. There is no visible wheel wear, and no problems with the dash fascia. This classic would feel quite luxurious by the standards of the day, featuring bucket seats, a console, and a pushbutton radio.

With a few of the rough edges smoothed away, this 1963 Ford Fairlane 500 could become a tidy driver for little beyond the additional purchase price. It is presentable in its current form, while the mechanical upgrades should provide someone with a rewarding classic motoring experience. Could you be that person?