The introduction of the Caliente in 1964 added spice to Ford’s otherwise tame compact-car line-up. The Caliente was a top trim level of the Comet, a model born in the maelstrom of economy vs power, size vs price. As the Comet shook off its economy roots, it crept up the status ladder – like so many American cars – gaining horsepower and accruing style points along the way. For 1966, the Caliente graduated to the mid-sized Fairlane chassis, acquiring new sheetmetal, trim, and engine options. Notably, Ford’s FE 390 cu. in. V8 became available. While more than 230,000 Calientes were made over four years of production, fewer than 21,000 were convertibles, and even fewer of those came with a big V8. Today’s featured car, a 1967 Caliente convertible, is one of only 12 examples produced in that year with a factory-supplied 390 and four-speed manual. It is offered at auction here at ACC; bidding has reached $18,500, reserve not met. The car is located in Collierville, Tennessee, and we have Curvette to thank for the tip!
This is the base 390 2V, good for 265 hp; the same engine could be had with either a slightly upgraded two-barrel (275 hp), or a four-barrel (S-code, 335 hp). So while we have a rare car here, it’s not the holy grail high-performance NASCAR-ready R-code Cyclone, or even an S-code. Still, it comes with its factory four-speed manual, a big advantage over most Calientes, which were predominantly ordered with automatics. This example is equipped with power steering and standard drum brakes all around. It is said to start easily and run well.
I wish the “bucket seat” box had been ticked while the buyer was sitting at the Memphis dealer in 1967, but alas, he apparently wanted a bench seat. The interior is not perfect, with upholstery separating at its seams and worn in corners. The trunk also shows mild wear. Other than the rarity of the engine/transmission option, this car was one of few delivered in Onyx over red.
Road rash and a few bumps are scattered across the exterior, but none of its flaws seriously detracts from what is a powerfully appealing variant from Ford’s Comet family. Hagerty suggests a value of around $24k for a ’66 Caliente convertible equipped with a 289 in “good” condition. Our featured car deserves a premium for its factory 390/four-speed combo, but whether bidding will even surmount the reserve remains to be seen. What would you pay for this rare Ford?
Love it Michelle. 4sp, big block.
Bench means room for one more kid to load up and take out for a drive they’ll never forget 🏁