When cars come across our desks here at Barn Finds, for some of them it is obvious why they are for sale. For some though the reason is less apparent, and we’re left wondering what the back story really is. This car is one of those. Located in Edmonds, Washington and for sale here on Craigslist is this 1966 Galaxie 500 Convertible. With a clean title and an asking price of $79,995 I would dearly love to know the story of this car and the reason for its sale. Barn Finds reader Michael referred this wonderful looking car to us, and I thank him for it.
Why do I want to know the story? Well this car is 52 years old and the seller is only the second owner. I can guarantee that they are not a flipper, as they’ve owned it for the last 33 years. I’m just intrigued as to why they are now selling a car that they have obviously loved and cherished for more than 3 decades. Regardless of the reason, this is a nice looking car. The seller describes the condition as “like new” and claims that the paintwork is original. If this is true then this is an owner who truly knows how to look after a car. It reputedly has a mere 32,200 miles on the clock. If this is also true then it would explain the overall condition. All bright-work, chrome and badges appears to be present, and all appear to be in good condition.
The interior is also in great condition for its age. Once again the seller claims that the upholstery is original. If I go over the photos with a magnifying glass I can identify some tiny potential imperfections, but these are so small that they may well be tricks of the light. The soft-top is also claimed to be original, and appears to be in great condition.
Under the hood is the original 390ci engine backed by an auto box. Once again this is the original drive-train. The seller makes no mention of the car having undergone any major mechanical work. To me the engine bay looks about as honest as an original 52 year old car should, although maybe slightly dustier than I expected (and please throw those red hoses in the nearest bin!). An interesting aside for this car is that the seller did not originally buy this from an unknown source. They bought it off a family friend, and have therefore known the car, and the care and treatment that it has received since new. That’s a pretty good way to buy a car.
I am well aware that this car is by no means cheap. In fact, it is one of the most expensive examples of this model that I have been able to find. It appears to be really well cared for, its history should be easy to verify, and it appears to be about as original as a 52 year old car can be. Is it worth the high price? I will guarantee that it will be to someone. In a high-stress world maybe more of us need to relax in a top-down cruiser.
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