In the 140-year history of the automobile, I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking that the 1965 model year was one of the best. Almost everything on the road was attractive and powerful enough for everyday use (even today); however, a few models get the side eye when collectors think about that landmark selling season, and the Ford Fairlane is one of them. Sales fell from 277,586 in 1964 to 223,954 in 1965, a season where many nameplates saw increased sales. Even so, I have a soft spot for the 1965 Fairlane, and if you’re going to buy one, a Hardtop or a Sports Coupe (which had bucket seats) is the one to get. This bench-seat Hardtop is being advertised here on craigslist in Port Angeles, Washington, as a 71,000-mile, one-family-owned example; brought to us by all-star Barn Finder Curvette, the Fairlane’s asking price is $10,000.
Mechanically, the Fairlane was much the same as the wildly successful Mustang, a car which probably stole more than a few sales from its slightly larger sibling. The engine is Ford’s 200-horsepower C-Code 289, which is backed by the same “green-dot” C4 automatic that you’ll find under the transmission tunnel of about half the 1965 Mustangs sold. Out back, you’ll find the same 8″ differential, too.
The seller says that the “brakes were replaced about a year and a half ago,” the tires are good, and the car runs, drives, and stops well. Needless to say, the brakes are non-power-assisted four-wheel drums, although there is a power steering pump visible at the lower edge of this photograph. The engine compartment itself could use a good detailing if you are so inclined. Fun fact: 1965 was the last model year before Ford switched to its famous “Ford Blue” engine paint almost universally.
The blue interior is the obvious choice for a car that is (likely) painted Caspian Blue, a really nice dark blue that looks great on any 1965 Ford. As I mentioned earlier, the regular Fairlane Hardtop differed from the Sports Coupe by having a bench seat and no console. This car’s driver’s seat bottom looks a little worn, but otherwise the interior has held up pretty well.
While the pictures of the undercarriage have been taken at a sharp angle, those that are posted verify that the car is as “rust-free” as the seller says it is. It’s apparently been garaged “most of its life” after being purchased at McKay Ford in Seattle in 1965.
The trunk, like the engine compartment, could use a good detailing, but it’s filled with extra parts and maybe even some literature.
Sure, the 1965 Fairlane might have been a lateral step from the 1964 model, a little too square for the Swinging ’60s, but it’s a reliable old Ford that will not break the bank today. If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten collector path, but still easy to work on and find parts for, there’s no reason to give this one any side eye.
Good write-up Aaron. I think you nailed it with the “too square” comment. To me it wasn’t as attractive as the ’64, and of course the ’66 was completely updated with the vertical headlights and more of a muscle car approach. But underneath, it was basic, tried-and-true Ford.
This looks to be a nice example of a car rarely seen.
I think this is a very good value car for the price. Needs trunk cleaned out . Put some new paint on valve covers , clean up engine compartment and you have a very nice ride. Drive it . To far away for me , or I would be on this . Alot of good cars coming outta the north west.
nice
Just saw a 63′ Fairlane 2 door hardtop at our local show,the guy bought it at a Mecum auction in Vegas.
I could not disagree more with “too square”. Takes all kinds I guess. And bench seats are tops in my book too. Where do we get our tastes from? I currently drive a 1964 Rambler Classic 770 and a 1992 Volvo 240. Total of 8 doors and 8 cylinders.
paint up the engine and it would look showroom new. i like it. complete history is a +
This Ford is a great entry level, collector car and fairly priced as well. Someone will snatch this one up quickly. So easy to get parts for and work on as well.
This is something I would like to get. I would freshen and (SLIGHTLY) modify the motor with a new cam and pistons while keeping the old parts for originality if I ever sold it. I would like a nice lope for the sound. Other than that, I wouldn’t touch it. No carving anything or trashing anything. I would not do anything that could not be reversed. This way, I could have a nice sounding driver, while still being able to got back to bone stock if I wanted.
I forgot to add that I would also get a good intake and 4V carb. Plus, I would probably convert to disc brakes in the front and add a power booster for them. I would still keep all the parts if a future buyer wanted the original parts.
I’ve finally figured it out with these 65 Fairlanes. Overall Ford went way conservative in 65 after the 64s. Looking at this one in profile it just hit me, it’s that roof. I’ve never liked this style roof on any of the 60’s fords, even the 64s. Does ‘frumpy’ ring a bell? Of course there are other styling misses on the 65 in my book but that roof line tales the cake. The 66 hardtop I had for years was a huge improvement in my mind.
But this 65 looks like a good solid buy the money. Classic mid 60’s mid size Ford, without the rust! Fly in and drive it home.
Wish I’d kept the 66, but the rust was getting out of hand.