The hood could be this 1969 Ford Fairlane 500 Convertible’s most important attribute. The seller states that it is the only panel not wearing original paint, while beneath it rests a 351ci V8 promising very respectable performance. It isn’t perfect, with evidence of minor rust. However, it is structurally sound and ready to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Fairlane listed here on eBay in Marcy, New York. The seller set their BIN at $15,500 with the option to make an offer.
Ford’s Sixth Generation Fairlane range enjoyed a very brief spell on the market, gracing showroom floors in 1968 and 1969. Buyers warmly embraced the company’s latest offering, and sales were very strong. Our featured car rolled off the line in 1969 and is 1-of-2,264 examples of the Fairlane 500 Convertible produced during that model year. Finished in Gulfstream Aqua, the seller claims that apart from the hood, the Fairlane retains all of its original paint. Its presentation is quite impressive if that is the case. The exterior shines nicely, and any paint imperfections are too insignificant to be an issue. There are no dings or dents, and the photos indicate that the power top in contrasting White fits tightly. The seller states that although the top pump and motor run, it appears to need a fluid top-up. The floors are rock-solid, but that doesn’t mean that this drop-top is rust-free. There is visible rust in both lower rear quarter panels and above the wheel arch on the passenger side. However, since the problems aren’t severe, they could be addressed at the buyer’s leisure. The trim and glass look great for their age, while the Black steelies and dog dish hubcaps give the car a subtle, restrained appearance.
Buyers could order a 1969 Fairlane 500 with some impressively powerful motors, but this car’s first owner followed what many would consider a relatively conservative path by selecting the M-Code 351ci V8. They teamed the 351 with a three-speed manual transmission and power front disc brakes. The M-Code delivered a factory-quoted 290hp and 385 ft/lbs of torque, providing the 3,600 lb Convertible with very respectable performance. There is plenty of good news for potential buyers, courtesy of the seller’s recent cash splash. They replaced the master cylinder, rotors, calipers, pads, rear wheel cylinders, and all brake lines and hoses, allowing the Fairlane to stop on a dime. They also fitted a new battery, starter, solenoid, radiator, hoses, and a Pertronix ignition. The V8 should sound wonderful as it exhales through the dual exhaust, and it appears that this classic is a turnkey proposition.
The positive vibes continue inside this Fairlane. Trimmed in White vinyl, the seller recently fitted a new steering wheel, kick panels, armrests, and a set of underdash AutoMeter gauges. They include the factory wheel for those preferring authenticity. The rest of the interior is original, and one of the highlights is the shifter, which looks quite purposeful poking from the floor. The interior presents well, with no major cosmetic issues or shortcomings. Dropping the top won’t be embarrassing, and the only functional issue is the inoperative AM/FM radio.
Although it isn’t perfect, this 1969 Fairlane 500 Convertible has many positive attributes. The rust issues are relatively minor, leaving the car structurally sound. The V8 under the hood will provide excellent performance, while the recent mechanical work ensures it is a turnkey proposition. It probably isn’t the most affordable classic on the planet, but recent sales results suggest the seller’s BIN is realistic. The listing statistics confirm people like what they see, and it will be fascinating to discover whether that translates into sales success. Do you think that it will?
I like the car, the price isn’t terrible and it looks straight. I would leave the rust alone and just drive it. It would be a big plus if it had p/s, I’ve gotten spoiled in my old age.
My thoughts are similar to KHayes. Too bad about the rust, but it is fine as-is if you just want a cruiser. Otherwise it looks like a clean, straightforward car. The blackwalls and dog dishes give it that certain look, but I might prefer some flashier wheels. A Marti Report!! It shows only five 351 4V 3-speed 1969 Fairlane 500 convertibles were built. But with an AM/FM Stereo, that would have been high-class for the day.
Looks like the seller has a couple collector GM products nearby.
Thanks Adam.
Normally not a convertible guy, but this Fairlane is very nice.
Nice ride! I love the styling, especially with the top down, and I always wonder if the top really works when a convertible is for sale but there are zero top-down photos. If this were closer, I certainly would be interested! Nice find, good luck with the sale!
This has a lot to like for me. I wonder though when a seller claims that something works but only needs a little fluid topup. So why not just add the required fluid and be done with it? It’s even more questionable given that the vehicle has received other work to insure its driveability. In any case I wouldn’t mind acquiring this Ford. And I am watching it. GLWTS.
nice car. great colors and a convert. underside looks solid. really needs a set of w/w tires or set of magnum 500s to make it pop. price is as well. this is a way better deal than turd 67 impala.
“…Looks like the seller has a couple…” yup, cheb guy.
I remember neighbor (also 16 y/o) had one. Not vert, with one of the 420somethings (7?, 8?, 9?). He saw me walkin & offered a ride home (3 mi away, all dirt rds from there, just a few feet more of asphalt). He kept his Marlboros in the one of the 4 or 5 port holes dash (speedo, clock, etc). “If U can reach that pack B4 I hit 2nd gear, they’re yours.” Just as I reached for them he let out the clutch. All I saw were telephone wires & my arm was still extended but stuck on the floor. He jammed into 2nd for the gravel rd that came next, laughing. I didnt laugh but my mouth was opened (for another reason).
Not usually a convertible guy either but, I like what this car has going for it. I really like the steel wheels, dog dish hubcaps, colors, etc. Just add some way overpriced fuel and drive!
I like this and would really be tempted to buy it. Don’t like the rust but it might not be that bad! Only one way to find out.
I can drive a truck 4-speed and always get the “first” gear correct. Put me in a 3-speed floor shift and I’ll always want to start in reverse. Drat. But can’t say I’ve been in many. Love that dash.
A change of black rims and dog dish’s to something shiny would snap it up a bit . Reasonable price , unless some problem is hiding .
I like