As-Found Survivor: 1968 Ford Galaxie XL Fastback 390

Although its history is unclear, the seller suggests that this 1968 Ford Galaxie XL Fastback is a genuine barn or garage find. They have pulled it from hiding, but haven’t attempted a revival. It is a rock-solid classic, and since it features its original paint, the buyer could preserve it as a genuine survivor. The seller has listed the Galaxie here on eBay in San Antonio, Texas, for $14,999 OBO.

Ford introduced a radically restyled Galaxie range in 1965, adopting a more aggressive appearance than its predecessor. The company performed minor annual styling updates before its replacement arrived in 1969. This 1968 Galaxie is the XL Fastback variant, ordered by its first owner in Gulfstream Aqua with a White vinyl top and matching stripes on the lower extremities. The seller isn’t forthcoming about the car’s history, but indications suggest it is a genuine barn or garage find. They say that it retains its original paint, which holds a healthy shine, and the vinyl looks remarkably good. The listing images show a few minor bumps and bruises, and I would consult a paintless dent removal company to see whether they can be repaired that way before committing to repairs involving a partial repaint. A reputable shop would have no trouble matching the color, but I like the idea of preserving the Galaxie’s survivor credentials. The underside shots expose dry surface corrosion, but it appears that penetrating rust isn’t a problem. The glass and trim look acceptable for a survivor, and as the XL version, this Ford features concealed headlights.

I’ve scrutinized the seller’s interior shots, and can only spot a couple of genuine faults. The harsh Texas sun has cracked the dashpad, and the wheel is also cracked in one spot. The pad could be an expensive fix, since reproductions typically retail for over $600. However, a $250.00 cover could be an affordable option, while a mat to hide the problem would cost even less. Some plastic has inevitably discolored, but the Turquoise vinyl, headliner, and carpet are in surprisingly good condition. I believe a wheel wrap and a dash mat are all this interior needs to look acceptable for a driver-grade classic. Even if left untouched, the air conditioning, bucket seats, console, horseshoe shifter, and pushbutton radio should make life aboard this Ford feel quite special.

Decoding the VIN confirms that this Galaxie features Ford’s Y-Code 390ci V8, which produced 265hp and 390 ft/lbs of torque in its prime. Buyers could team the Y-Code with a three-speed manual transmission, but this Galaxie features a three-speed automatic and power steering. The seller says they haven’t tried to coax the motor to life, and the visual signs suggest it hasn’t fired a shot in a while. However, that could be good news if the V8 turns, because I think we have all seen examples of classics where someone has done mechanical harm by not adopting best practices during a revival. At least this Galaxie allows the buyer to do it their way, which is pretty desirable.

Dry-climate classics typically attract attention because rust is less of an issue than in vehicles from other areas. This 1968 Galaxie XL Fastback proves it, with thirty-nine people adding it to their Watch List very quickly. There’s a lot to like about this Ford, because rust doesn’t appear to be a problem, and addressing its panel imperfections might be relatively straightforward. The BIN squeaks into the affordable category, although the situation may improve if the seller will negotiate. Are you tempted to ask the question, hoping that you can give this wonderful Galaxie a new home?