Potential Sleeper? 1968 Ford Falcon

Ford joined the compact car market in the U.S. in 1960 with the popular Falcon. It was in production across three generations and through 1970 when it was replaced by the also popular Maverick. Demand for the car waned after the mid-1960s launch of the Mustang, so it was regularly beaten in the showroom by the likes of the Chevy Nova. This 1968 edition began life with a 6-banger, but a V8 has since been installed. The little car needs mechanical and cosmetic work, but could soon be regular to surprise a few folks at traffic lights. Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, this project is available here on eBay for $5,000 even.

The Falcon’s last rework came in 1966 and few physical changes were made in subsequent years. 131,000 new Falcons found homes in 1968, of which 29,000 were 2-door Club Sedans like this one (there was also an upscale Futura edition). A 170 cubic inch inline-6 was standard and that’s what originally populated this car along with a “3-on-the-tree” manual transmission (a basic Falcon). But a 289, 302, or 351 has taken up residence since (the seller is unsure which displacement is at work), plus a 4-speed gearbox.

We’re told this Ford will start and run with some gas applied directly to the carburetor. So the engine apparently may not be an issue in your fixing up this machine. New parts includes the starter, clutch, pressure plate, water pump, and a variety of odds and ends. So perhaps the fuel supply going back to the gas tank is what will need to be tackled. The interior has been gutted, but many of those pieces seem to be around.

The body seems solid, though the floorboards are not. The dash will need to be redone or replaced. Carpeting is included but not installed. The beige paint has run its course, but if you’re going for the sleeper look, maybe some clearcoat could work instead. This is a 4-lug nut car and I’ve always wondered why Ford went to the trouble of just not using 5-lugs on all Falcons and Mustangs. Do you see this project in your future?