Ford’s Galaxie model debuted in 1959 in time to do battle with Chevrolet’s new Impala. And it would be a FOMOCO staple until 1974. One of the best-looking iterations was the 1963 model year, which included nearly 30,000 Galaxie 500 convertibles like this one. It’s a driver-quality drop-top with some upgrades (like 4-wheel disc brakes), but it needs a new top. Located in Seattle, Washington, this V8-powered Ford is listed here on craigslist for $17,500. Here’s another tip from Barn Finder “Curvette.”
The big Fords were redesigned in 1960, and tailfins would finally be gone by 1962. The 1963 versions of the full-size cars were a styling evolution of the ‘62s, back in the day when appearances were upgraded almost annually. New in ’63 (mid-year) was the 289 cubic inch V8, replacing the 260. That’s what’s in the seller’s car along with a “3-on-the-tree” manual transmission.
This is said to be a good-running car that’s stock with a 2-barrel carburetor, making for a fairly economical gas sipper by the standards of the day. The car looks like it’s been lowered, but it hasn’t, due to wider wheels added fore and aft, keeping Ford’s “poverty” hub caps. Everything works as it should, except for the clock.
The body and paint appear to be okay, but the upholstery needs some attention, and the canvas top has run its course (but it’s okay as long as it doesn’t rain). Though it’s out west now, it came from Ohio two years ago and has been in the garage during that time. A tune-up may be needed along with some tinkering with the carburetor (though that was done three years ago). If you’re looking for one of these Fords that isn’t a rust bucket, could this Galaxie lift your spirits?
it looks as though the engine has been worked on. I had a 63 and the 289s were white and black, not blue and they were only a five bolt bell housing.
There used to be a really good shop in Everett that could replace the top a quick Google search didn’t bring anything up. I would have to look around maybe even pull out a phone book to see if I can get it done locally otherwise looks like a nice fun car
It’s been many, many years since I last saw a small block Ford with the oil filler tube in the front cover and equipped with a generator instead of an alternator.
good starting point
I’ve seen MANY 63’s and 64’s that look like they just came out of the showroom and had rotted out frames! If it didn’t spend it’s entire life in NM or AZ I would be careful without either seeing it on a hoist or multiple pics of the underside!
I agree, William. I had a ’65 LTD that was beautiful with a badly rotted frame. I sold it cheap as it was otherwise a good running car and warned the new owner. I’m not sure he listened to me or didn’t care.
Gonna sell a car at that price with a top that needs replacement?
Cvt bodies and frames need thorough inspection.
Should be about 2.5K less
I actually had a 63 two door post with no chrome embellishments on it. This was 1966. I replaced the rings in the engine and put new bearings in it, just because I was a teenager and wanted to work on the engine! I had to measure everything and it turned out to be a 260!! Put a four barrel manifold and automate 4100 carburetor on it with an Isky 3/4 race cam in it. This big Ford would outrace corvettes of the era! I never thought it would be a fast car, but for 1966 it was. I had races with all sorts of cars and got beat by the Superbees and big blocks, but all of them thought that it was a 390 or 406. Most had to look under the hood when the race was over! I sure do miss that one!
The 289 did not replace the 260. The 260 was used in ‘64, and notably, in the early ‘65 Mustang.
Agree with Bunky. My Dad had a ’64 Fairlane with a 260. They were not replaced by the 289.