This 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 might tick the right boxes for many readers. It is a rock-solid vehicle in sound mechanical health. The new owner can enjoy it immediately and perform a straightforward cosmetic restoration as time and circumstances allow. If you feel irresistibly drawn to this classic, you will find the Fairlane listed here on eBay in Brooklyn, Iowa. You might have to fight for this beauty because twenty-eight bids have pushed the price to $14,355. However, there is still time to throw your hat into the ring for this classic.

Ford’s Fifth Generation Fairlane enjoyed a comparatively short production run, gracing showroom floors for the 1966 and 1967 model years. It brought a radical new look compared to its predecessor, with squarer lines and vertically stacked headlights. This “500” rolled off the line during the first production year in Silver Blue Metallic, with the seller indicating they rescued it from a twenty-year hibernation. The storage conditions must have been favorable because this Ford is rock-solid. The underside shots reveal dry scale and surface corrosion but no evidence of steel penetration. The exterior has a couple of bumps and bruises, but no damage is bad enough to justify panel replacement. The paint shows age, and although the Fairlane looks quite presentable, a straightforward cosmetic refresh would tempt many to reclaim the car’s former glory. The glass is in good order, and while most of the trim is acceptable for a driver-grade classic, the rear bumper would benefit from a trip to the platers.

Fairlane buyers in 1966 faced an enormous range of engines to power their new purchase. Those on a budget or with an eye to economy could select a six, but this car’s original owner splashed the cash on a 390ci V8. They teamed the V8 with a three-speed C6 automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The 390 produces 265hp and 401 ft/lbs of torque, although there is more available if the winning bidder follows the seller’s suggestion of upgrading the carburetor and intake. This is an affordable task and could easily push power beyond the 300hp barrier. The seller spent some time and money reviving this car following its hibernation. The brakes have received many new parts, and they treated the carburetor to a rebuild. They believe the engine is original, and while they don’t state it categorically, it appears this Fairlane is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

One of this Fairlane’s highlights is its interior. The multi-hue Blue cloth and vinyl trim look exceptional, with no significant wear or other issues. The dash paint shows some age and marks, but the pad and plastic are excellent. Its only major flaw is the headliner. The seller cut this out to eliminate a mouse nest and hasn’t sourced a replacement. This shouldn’t be a problem because they retail for around $260. This interior would look stunning with that task completed. It isn’t highly optioned, so potential buyers shouldn’t search for air conditioning or power windows. The factory AM radio is intact, but the seller is unsure whether it works.

The bidding activity on this 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 has been intense, and it is easy to see why. It is far from perfect, but its solid nature and excellent interior make it an ideal candidate for a novice considering a first project build. Unleashing extra performance from its engine would be cheap and easy, giving this classic performance to match its looks. Are you tempted to join the bidding war, or will you sit out this dance?