37k Original Miles: 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 XL

One of the most significant challenges we each face when writing for Barn Finds is remaining objective when we have a strong personal link to the classic in question. Such is the case with me and this 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 XL. We had one of these gems parked in our garage as a daily driver at Castle Clarke when I was a lad, and it is the only car that my father said he regretted selling. Therefore, I know he would approve of this Galaxie, from its spotless presentation to its odometer reading of 37,000 original miles. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Galaxie listed here on Craigslist in Clackamas, Oregon. The seller set their price at $28,500 for this wonderful survivor.

Ford entered the 1960s with a new Galaxie in its showrooms. The latest offering featured significantly less bright exterior trim than its predecessor, and the fins that dominated the late-1950s would disappear during the four-year production run. This 1964 Galaxie is a 500 XL 2-Door Hardtop. The seller emphasizes its survivor status, stating that the Wimbledon White paint gracing its exterior is original. Its condition is particularly noteworthy if that is the case, because there are no genuine cosmetic issues with the panels or paint. The seller states that they became the car’s custodian in 1988 after purchasing it from the original owner. The Galaxie has been a treasured family member, and its garage-kept history makes the car’s rust-free status unsurprising. The glass is crystal clear, and the narrow whitewalls emphasize the vehicle’s classy styling.

Ordering a 1964 Galaxie 500 XL meant that buyers received a V8 as the default motor. The entry-level 289 provided reasonable performance, but this car’s first owner raised the stakes by ticking the box beside the 352ci powerplant. They teamed the motor with a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The 352 was a worthwhile investment, because while the 289 delivered 195hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque, the 352 lifted those figures to 250hp and 352 ft/lbs. Although it isn’t stated specifically, the car’s ownership history means that the claimed odometer reading of 37,000 genuine miles may be documented. If not, the Galaxie’s overall condition makes it plausible. The seller doesn’t provide any information regarding how the Galaxie runs or drives, but if the engine bay presentation is an accurate guide, it should be a turnkey proposition.

This Galaxie’s interior definitely has the “wow” factor. Trimmed in Red vinyl, the only sign of an active life is the slightly crushed seat foam on the front buckets. Otherwise, it is exceptionally clean, carrying the hallmarks of a car that has been treated respectfully. Its owners have been non-smokers, meaning that there won’t be any obnoxious odors or stubborn stains to taint the interior. The seller mounted a modern stereo below the dash, but this Galaxie retains its factory AM/FM radio. Add bucket seats, a console, and crisp bright trim to the equation, and there is much to like about this interior.

I acknowledge that I am biased, but I believe that the 1964 Galaxie 500 XL was the most attractive full-size model produced by Ford in the 1960s. The styling hit a sweet spot, managing to look sophisticated but purposeful. The ’64 has aged well, still looking crisp sixty-two years after the last car left the line. This one is an absolute gem, and if my father were still with us, I am sure that he would be angling for a test drive to rekindle fond memories. The price is at the top end of the market, but if the seller’s claims are accurate, the figure is justified. I believe it will find a new home, and I hope that it will be with one of our readers. That way, I can be sure that it will be treated respectfully for many years. Do we have any takers?