Choosing an appropriate project candidate is sometimes challenging. Buyers must often balance their skills and desires with their available budget. That makes this 1968 Ford Fairlane worth a close look. It has obvious rust, but the photos support the seller’s claim that not only is it minor, but that the car is rock-solid. Its engine bay houses a healthy V8 that runs well, and the interior is comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade build. Therefore, as a DIY project, this Fairlane could be a winner. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mike F. for spotting this fabulous Ford listed here on Craigslist in Springfield, Colorado. The seller set their price for this driving classic at $8,000.
The Fairlane had undoubtedly cemented its place in the new car market by the time the Sixth Generation hit showroom floors for the 1968 model year. The company’s latest offering was longer and wider than its predecessor, but rode on the same wheelbase. Ford offered buyers a host of body styles, and this first-year car will win favor with some readers because it has two doors. The paint shade Pebble Beige is subtle and restrained, and won’t appeal to everyone. However, since the car would benefit from a cosmetic refresh, enthusiasts unconcerned about originality might contemplate a color change to something more to their liking. The process won’t include major rust repairs, because the floors and underside are rock-solid. The photos reveal almost identical rust in both lower front fenders, which are prime candidates for patches, and I think there might be a couple of small spots appearing in the driver’s side rear quarter panel. Otherwise, the panels themselves are straight, the trim looks acceptable for a driver-grade build, and I can’t spot any problems with the tinted glass.
I was bracing for problems with this Fairlane’s interior, but I was pleasantly surprised by its presentation. The dashpad looks dry in spots, but it hasn’t split. That’s a major victory, because cracking is common, and reproduction replacements retail for over $800. I would probably install a protective mat as cheap insurance to prevent further deterioration. The seat cloth has some marks and wear, but the only hole is in the vinyl on the outer edge of the driver’s seat backrest vinyl. The back seat looks excellent, and the remaining vinyl is in good order. The buyer won’t receive luxuries such as air conditioning, but there is an AM radio. Adding to the Fairlane’s appeal is a trunk full of parts, including a few interior components.
Ford offered 1968 Fairlane buyers the choice of ordering their new purchase with a six under the hood. However, this car’s first owner teamed the entry-level 302ci V8 with a three-speed automatic transmission and power steering. The motor should produce 210hp and 295 ft/lbs of torque, and while it isn’t a jet, open-road cruising at freeway speed or tackling stop-and-start city traffic shouldn’t be a challenge. The seller states that this beauty runs and drives extremely well. They admit that it is cold-blooded, suggesting the carburetor may benefit from a rebuild to improve the situation. Otherwise, it appears the only thing standing between potential buyers and the open road is handing the seller some cash.
At $8,000, this 1968 Ford Fairlane falls comfortably into the category of affordable project candidates. Adding to its appeal, it runs and drives, allowing the buyer to indulge in the pleasure of summer classic motoring. They can then lock themselves away in the workshop when the weather turns cold, cut out the rust, and refresh the car before it remerges as the weather grows warm once again. Winter seems to last forever, but the time always seems to pass faster if there is something constructive to focus upon. This Fairlane offers that opportunity, but are you tempted to accept its challenges?
I think it’s so groovy now, finally getting it together,,,meaning, it’s refreshing to see PLAUSIBLE submissions at affordable prices. Now, if we still have a market, that is, another story. Take this car, please( Henny Youngman) it’s perfect. 2 door, docile V8, automatic, not some garage queen, if a ding at Walmart, no biggie, and will take you there happily, and your children, and your childrens children,,,you get the point, cars just didn’t get any better than this. Power brakes is subjective, just slow down, what’s the rush?,,:). Nice car.
Almost perfect blank canvas right down to the color. Priced reasonably as well. If it were a little closer to the northeast I’d be looking at what could be purged to raise funds!