We all like to read about muscle cars, sports cars, exotics and rarely seen models but sometimes it’s nice just to take a walk down memory lane and take a look at everyday commonly found cars from our past. That being the case, let’s review a 1969 Ford Fairlane, four-door sedan, located in Tannersville, Pennsylvania and for sale here on craigslist for $3,900. Thanks to FordGuy 1972 for the tip!
The Ford Fairlane name has a storied past in Ford’s history. At one time, it was their top dog full-size model until it was dethroned by the Galaxie in 1959. In 1962, the name was chosen as the moniker for Ford’s brand new intermediate model. Well, lightning struck twice and in 1968, the Fairlane was demoted again to be upstaged by the newly introduced Torino. In 1969, the Fairlane was the entry-level midsize Ford but was offered in multiple body styles including this four-door sedan. The Fairlane name was last used in the U.S. in 1970.
For power, this Fairlane has the new for 1969 351 CI Windsor V8 engine, rated at 250 HP. It appears to be all original and stock; the seller states that it must be driven to be appreciated so I guess that means it runs well. Power to the rear wheels is via a typical C-4, three-speed automatic transmission.
Looking inside, it appears that we are viewing a brand new 1969 Ford Fairlane, it looks perfect! Note the dashboard-mounted ignition switch; by ’69 some manufactures had moved the switch to the steering column to meet the upcoming requirement for the mandated ignition switch/steering wheel lock.
The seller states that this Fairlane has been garage kept and that’s easy to believe, the original lacquer finish still shines and there is no sign of rust or corrosion – definitely a potential concern for a Pennsylvania domiciled car. That being the case, it would be advisable to perform an underside inspection just to make sure the underside is as nice as the topside. Finally, the shunt lines all look correct too, frequently an issue in this era, right off of the assembly line.
Now, there are those will discount this Ford because it is a four-door model but the reality is that four-door sedans were more prevalent back when manufacturers offered various body styles on a single model. The styling on two-door coupes and hardtops is frequently more balanced and promotes a “sportier” appearance but the four-doors were what most people drove for the obvious reasons of convenience and function. I don’t know the mileage on this Fairlane but for $3,900 I think it would make for a great casual driver, how about you?
Great looking Ford from ’69. It won’t last long for that asking price.
If it’s as clean as it looks, that is a heck of a deal.
I would have expected a 302 at most. 351W was a strong motor, especially in a car this size and before emission controls.
I had a 68 with a 6 and three on the tree in the eighties. It was comfortable and easy on fuel. I like the dash. Used it for a work car then gave it to my high school aged brother to finish off.
Too good to be true!
Pristine condition
No rust
Super nice interior
No cracks on dash
V-8 351W
$3,900 make me an offer?
Very similar to a ’68 Torino 4-door I once had, the only differences was mine had the base 302 and the exterior was Brittany Blue. It was a car I used for a daily driver, a dependable, attractive car that was reasonable on fuel. I’m sorely tempted by this very clean ’69 Fairlane but with two pickups and two classic cars at home already, I just don’t have the room. I’m sure the little woman would have something to say about it, too.
Amazing condition for a 50 year-old car, one that’s probably fairly rare these days. The 351W should give it decent performance, too. Great price for this one, shouldn’t have any trouble finding a new home for $3,900.
I think these pics are from decades ago and kind of suspicious at this price. I guess if one was local it could be a deal.
I bet this scoots along quite well for a sedan, the 351 engine is a step up for this relatively light-weight car.
A little fact checking goes a long way. Two-door intermediates were generally more popular than four-doors in the late 1960s. In the case of the ’69 Fairlaine, it was nearly 3:1.
this car has Been on the lot since the summer, with no takers, its a light blue car, I know I live nearby
Is the car as nice as the seller claims, Conrad? The pictures sure make it seem like it’s a nice car.
it does look pretty nice, he had originally had it listed for 4500 it is/ was located at Best Auto Service, Rt. 611 Tannersville PA. I looked at it and it did look nice, however I didn’t look underneath .
Thanks, Conrad. Surprised it’s still available at $3,900. Folks around Tannersville must not care for 4-doors or perhaps there is something holding it back, some issue scaring potential buyers off? No info given on the underside so maybe there are some problems there. If the car is clean under down under, pictures of the underside would help. I’m really tempted by this Fairlane but I have to fight the urge or I’ll be fighting with the wife. Won’t win that battle.
This has to be the deal of the year, if true.
Good car to play Dragnet in, only slightly newer. The 351 is a huge plus. These must have been super family sedans back then.
This is the kind of car for an entry level hot rodder to get into the hobby!! Some 16 year old kid would have a blast smoking the tires and running the Honda and Toyota lovers and maybe even surprising them with a win!!!
My 69 2 door,formal roof,had 351 2v, Fmx, with A/C, had it 25+ years, sold it 3+ years ago… engine was blown,paid nothing for car, very little rust,still sports 90% orig.interior. rebuilt 351,added intake and 4v, had a Mallory ignition on the shelf,bought at super shops goin out a biz sale before I ever even knew of car. Thing ran like a scalded dog. I still work on it ,new owner got money but no mech ability, he gettn better ,
I try to push him to work on it, he is a millenial…but with some hope I think?????
Big Al, I hope you can teach that millenial about his car. I am glad that he liked it enough to buy it.
See guys? There is hope for the future!