It is the eternal question when a classic car appears at Barn Finds with rust requiring attention. Is it a viable restoration project, or is its fate to serve as a donor? That is the question facing potential buyers with this 1967 Ford Galaxie 500 XL Convertible. It has rust problems, but it appears to be structurally sound and complete. There has been relatively subdued bidding, raising the prospect that the final sale price could be exceptionally low. That could prove the difference between someone electing to return the Galaxie to its former glory or using it as a donor. It is listed here on eBay in Correctionville, Iowa. Nine bids have pushed the price to $750, which is below the reserve.

The seller mentions the originality of this Galaxie in their listing, but I’m prepared to stick my neck out and question one point. The Tag indicates this classic rolled off the line cloaked in Vintage Burgundy paint, but it now wears what appears to be Candy Apple Red. That suggests a color change at some point, and there is evidence of overspray on some Black painted surfaces in the trunk. If the next owner elects to return this classic to its former glory, knowing which color they’d choose will be fascinating. The car has been sitting for years, and time hasn’t been its best friend. The shredded power top is the least of its problems because plenty of rust requires attention. It has impacted many lower extremities, like the rockers, front fenders, and rear quarter panels. Thankfully, the floors and trunk pan are solid, with only one small hole near the gas pedal requiring a patch. The frame looks excellent, with nothing but the usual accumulated surface corrosion. The bumpers are peeling and exhibit corrosion, but the remaining trim and glass look perfect for a driver-grade restoration project.

Life aboard this Galaxie must have been pretty enjoyable when the vehicle was in its prime, thanks to the original owner’s decision to order the car with bucket seats, a console, and an 8-track player. Those items remain intact, although the factory radio has disappeared in favor of a radio/cassette player. The lack of protection offered by the shredded top means the interior hasn’t led an easy life. It requires plenty of TLC, and the shopping list of parts will be extensive. I’d thoroughly clean everything before starting that list, but we know it includes a carpet set, seat upholstery, a wheel, and replacement faux woodgrain trim for the console. There will undoubtedly be smaller components beyond help, but a bit of time assessing the situation could help this restoration remain financially viable.

Buyers faced a wide choice of engines when ordering their ’67 Galaxie, and this car’s original owner selected the 390ci V8, producing 275hp. They added a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. They probably weren’t solely focused on outright performance but on having enough power on tap to cope with most eventualities. Considering it tips the scales at 4,204lbs, this Galaxie’s ability to storm the ¼ mile in 17 seconds is pretty impressive. If the driver keeps the pedal to the metal, the V8 would run out of breath at 120mph. The seller uses that phrase that causes some people to grit their teeth, stating it ran when parked. The visual indications are that this occurred many years ago, although revival may not prove difficult with the engine turning freely. However, it is safe to assume that it will take more than a weekend’s tinkering in a home workshop to return the Convertible to a roadworthy state.

There’s little doubt that fully restored, this 1967 Galaxie 500 XL Convertible would be an ideal candidate for cruising along some beachfront on a sunny day. It would be equally at home on the freeway, where its 390 V8 would allow it to keep pace with the hustle and bustle that is an integral part of modern life. It has rust problems, which aren’t the type to be kept waiting long-term. A careful restoration with attention to detail could see it command a price of $25,000 in the current market. Values are climbing, but the progress is slow. Whether it is a viable restoration prospect will largely depend on where the bidding hits when the hammer falls. Even if the restoration breaks the figure quoted above, the new owner could potentially recoup the additional cost by retaining the car long-term. Do you think the risk is justified or is this Galaxie destined to end its days as a donor?