This 1969 Ford Fairlane 500 Convertible can be considered a high-end driver, and its condition is unsurprising since it has a genuine 80,000 miles showing on its odometer. It features a new top that enhances its visual appeal and is ready to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel. I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the Fairlane listed here on Craigslist in Willowick, Ohio. The seller set their price at $17,500 for a Convertible that appears to need nothing.

The Fairlane badge first appeared on a Ford model in 1955 and would remain available until the end of 1970. The Sixth Generation, launched for the 1968 model year, enjoyed a brief two-year production life. This Fairlane 500 Convertible rolled off the line in 1969, featuring classy Meadowlark Yellow paint and a new Black power top. The seller describes it as a driver-quality classic, and its overall condition is guaranteed to turn heads. The paint shines beautifully, the panels are straight, and its garage-kept history has left the Convertible rust-free. There is no evidence of accident damage or other problems, and the glass and trim are spotless. The sports wheels are the icing on the cake, and their condition is as impressive as the rest of the exterior.

Ford initially offered its 289ci V8 as an option for Sixth Generation Fairlane buyers, but soon retired that powerplant in favor of the 302ci unit. It was a worthwhile upgrade, with the larger engine providing useful increases in power and torque. This Convertible’s 302 should generate 220hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. The steering receives power assistance, but the brakes don’t score that luxury. The engine bay presentation is what I would describe as honest, with no evidence of rattle-can work or layers of detailing spray. The seller doesn’t mention verifying evidence for their mileage claim, so this must be taken at face value. However, the car runs and drives extremely well, allowing the new owner to potentially fly in and drive it home.

The first thing that I noticed about this Fairlane’s interior is that the dashpad is crack-free. That is significant because reproduction pads typically retail for over $800. The only genuine fault that I can spot is a crack on the wheel rim, because the Black vinyl upholstered surfaces are free from major wear and other issues. I can spot a few small faults that the buyer might choose to address as time and circumstances allow, but none are what I would consider to be deal-breakers. The carpet is excellent, the dash shows no evidence of deterioration, and I can’t spot any aftermarket additions beyond the removable console in front of the seat. They say that careful ownership shows, and this Fairlane’s interior demonstrates that.

A sheltered existence shows on classics, especially when they have a few years under their belts. Such is the case with this 1969 Ford Fairlane 500 Convertible. There is little about this car deserving criticism, and much to like. It is ideal for anyone seeking a classic that can be enjoyed immediately, and the odometer reading is well below what you might expect from any vehicle after fifty-six years of active service. The seller’s price looks extremely competitive, and I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly quickly. Do you agree?