Summer may be fast disappearing, but there are still opportunities for classic motoring fun before winter arrives on our doorstep. Doing so in a 1960s Convertible is an obvious choice, making this 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 worth a close look. It presents well as a survivor, and with only 85,000 miles on the clock, it should provide its new owner with years of enjoyment. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting a car that strikes a personal chord with me.
I consider myself fortunate because I grew up in a home with a father who was passionate about classic cars. That meant that our garage typically contained interesting, and often quite desirable vehicles. My firm favorite was a 1964 Galaxie 500 Sedan for many reasons. I loved the long and sleek lines, and how incredibly comfortable it was, and I loved what was hidden below the hood. Admittedly, the V8 was an entry-level 289, but once it was built to K-Code specs, the Galaxie could get up and moving when my father poked it with a sharp stick. Those fond memories are why I would love to become this Convertible’s next owner. It is claimed to be a genuine survivor, with most of its dazzling Sunlight Yellow paint applied at the factory. The seller admits it isn’t perfect, and there is evidence of touch-up work. However, the car is extremely presentable, and the Black power top adds a striking contrast. It fits tightly, with no signs of rips or physical damage. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and there is no evidence of rust. The trim and glass are excellent, and I particularly like the hubcaps. If the appearance isn’t low and sleek enough for you, fitting the included fender skirts will enhance the visual appeal.
I have previously talked about how challenging it can be to hide a Convertible’s substandard interior. However, there are no such problems with this Galaxie. The Black vinyl trim looks excellent for its age, with the only possible flaw what appears to be a developing split on the seat base on the driver’s side. The carpet looks pretty respectable for a survivor, and the dash seems spotless. The original clock is intact, and the seller has improved the in-car entertainment by teaming an FM Converter with the pushbutton AM radio.
Powering this Galaxie is the sweet 289ci V8, teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission and power steering. The V8 produces 195hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque. Performance would best be considered competent because, with 3,946 lbs to shift, this Galaxie won’t threaten many muscle cars. However, if boulevarde cruising or sitting comfortably at 70mph on the open road are your plans, this Ford should fulfill either role admirably. The seller claims it has a genuine 85,000 miles on its odometer, without mentioning verifying evidence. They appear approachable, so might be willing to shed further light on the claim. They recently replaced the fuel tank and performed a tune-up, and the narrow whitewall tires have only ten miles under their treads. Potential buyers can hand over the cash and head into the sunset in a classic that runs and drives perfectly.
If circumstances were different, the chances are you wouldn’t be reading this article today. That is because I find this 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 Convertible almost irresistible, and choosing not to park it in my garage was a difficult decision. However, my loss could be your gain if a relatively affordable drop-top is on your Wish List. The seller listed the Galaxie here on Craigslist in Farmingdale, New York. Their price of $14,500 looks extremely competitive in the current climate, and recent market trends mean now could be the right time to buy. Values have taken a hit during the past year, but the situation has stabilized. That may be a precursor to an increase, and if that proves the case, this Ford could be a long-term winner.
Adam, excellent write up and your passion shows for these wonderful, wonderful Classics.
Your Father did the right thing sharing his Classic car appreciation with you. My Father was supportive as well, thankfully. He worked for Ford for 38 years so every day from the 70’s through the 90’s he brought Home a new Sedan that my brother and I would scrutinize. Police Interceptors as well.
This is a really nice Galaxy convertible and the price looks reasonable !
This is a car I would actually want to drive. You said that even with the small 289 it cruises quite well.
A good dose of Classic motoring awaits the new caretaker here.
My brother had a 63 and it looked like the 64s I see on barnfinds.
Too bad it’s not an XL with a 390. Still a beautiful car though.
Thomas Shea my uncle had a white XL 360 and it made those F78-14s scream for mercy. It was a joy to drive.
It is what it is, Thomas, although I think it’s wearing XL wheel covers (NOT hubcaps, please).
I ordered a red ’64 Galaxie 500XL ragtop with a 352 when the ’64s first came out, and I loved every minute I had with it. Not only was it ultra cool–especially after I put the skirts and glasspacks on it–but it was the first convertible to feature a glass rear window!
Ah, yes…
I’ve owned a lot of 64 Fords over the years and the beautiful body lines still get my heart beating a little faster. The one I never got but always wanted was a convertible. The missing power brake booster makes ready for a dual power brake master cylinder and front disc setup. I know a lot of people don’t like yellow cars but I really like it on this car.
New York is bit of a drive from Houston so I’ll let this one pass.
God Bless America
Great looking Galaxie. Hard to beat black and yellow. Better have a pad to sit on those lovely black seats. Top down, radio up.
Let’s see…Rusty Plymouth wagon- or shiny Galaxie convertible? Your choice $14500. Talk about a no-brainer.
I had a friend who bought a new ’64 Galaxy 500 XL, 390, 4 speed, white, blue top, blue interior. It was faster off the line than everything in our neighborhood. However, it was hard to keep in a straight line when accelerating. It would step out with each shift, crazy fun. He loaned it to me to drive to lunch one day. Needless to say I skipped lunch!
I like this car a lot, and I think the price is reasonable. I also like the fact that is not an XL. What a great car to enjoy and drive.
Forgive me if this is a repeat, but my 1st car was a 64 Galaxy 500XL in Vintage Burgandy, it also had a swing-away steering wheel, I didn’t know it came that way so you can imagine my surprise when I discovered it. I thought that was just a T-Bird thing. It had a 352, but that was fine by me. Smoothest running car I ever owned.
I can’t believe it hasn’t sold yet. That’s a great price for this car! Always wanted a ’64, not sure why that didn’t happen. Not a convertible guy, but someone should snap this up.
She’s a sweetheart of a Galaxie,but rather have the 390 XL Version. I’d have to upgrade those manual drums to power disc’s in front keeping rear drums in back, and ditching those hubcaps for some 15″16″ Cragars. This is a fairly priced Galaxie and I’m surprised she’s not already gone.
So rare to see one intact like this when most were gutted decades ago.