The automotive industry is cyclical, driven by buyer demand for new vehicles. I have often felt sad that potential customers have largely turned their backs on Station Wagons. Imports are available, but there is no indication that domestic manufacturers are contemplating a return for one of the most practical vehicles in motoring history. Therefore, buyers must turn to the classic market, and if this 1963 Ford Country Squire is any indication, they are spoiled for choice. This restored gem presents beautifully, featuring a V8 under the hood. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Country Squire listed here on eBay in Houston, Texas. The seller set their price at $48,000 OBO for a Wagon that is ready to send the whole family off on summer vacation adventures.
The seller is sparing with information surrounding this Country Squire’s history. They describe it as restored, but don’t indicate when the refresh occurred, or how extensive it was. The Raven Black paint looks stunning, with no major cosmetic issues. The panels are straight, and the woodgrain trim, the Country Squire’s defining styling feature, appears in as-new condition. Delving below the surface via the seller’s image gallery confirms that the floors and frame are spotless, with no evidence of rust to spoil the ownership experience. The bright trim and glass sparkle beautifully, while the wire wheel covers and narrow whitewalls perfectly suit this Ford’s character. The chrome roof rack is a practical feature for owners who can’t squeeze everything into what is a fairly cavernous cargo area.
This Country Squire isn’t a muscle wagon compared to other models available in 1963. Still, with its 289ci V8 producing a factory-claimed 195hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque, the performance would have been considered very acceptable when this classic rolled off the lot. Those seeking a relaxed driving experience will welcome the three-speed automatic transmission and power steering, both designed to lighten the driver’s load behind the wheel. Frustratingly, the seller provides no information surrounding the originality of the mechanical components, or this Wagon’s mechanical condition. However, the engine bay presentation is encouraging, there are no apparent fluid leaks, and it would be fair to expect any ’63 Country Squire within this price range to be mechanically perfect.
Most of the seller’s interior images are slightly blurred, but there is still much to learn by scrolling through them. This Country Squire doesn’t feature third-row seating, but it is still a comfortable six-seater. The Red vinyl trim looks excellent and, like the carpet, is free from visible wear and other issues. The cargo area exhibits none of the scrapes and scuffs that seem almost inevitable in any older Wagon, and the power rear window functions as it should. The interior may seem relatively spartan by modern standards, but the buyer receives a clock and a pushbutton radio to relieve boredom on long journeys.
I admit there was a time when I didn’t understand the appeal of Station Wagons. I viewed them as vehicles bought by those who required nothing from their purchase other than practicality and space for a larger family. However, in a previous life, I utilized several Wagons as company cars, and I am a convert. They are typically as comfortable as the sedan upon which they are based, but offer enormous versatility and load-carrying capacity. I understand why they are so popular with those contemplating family vacations, because they can squeeze significantly more luggage aboard a Wagon than almost any equivalent sedan. This 1963 Ford Country Squire perfectly demonstrates those traits and is ready for life with a new owner. However, the sticking point could be the price, which is far above the market average. Admittedly, this classic presents superbly, but do you think the seller will need to compromise to achieve sales success?
Sharp wagon. I never used to pay much attention to them, but I now find the 60’s-70’s wood sided wagons to be cool.
Very nice car. The dealers description starts with them saying it’s one of their favorites, that’s a good thing because with an asking price of $48,000 it’s going to be with for a long time.
Steve R
Good one, Steve! I agree. Maybe this is their first fishing expedition with it.
You that know I lowball. I see this one trading at $25k to some Ford freak, only because it is a nice car.
The problem with these super-clean cars is that a lot of the perceived value is in the current presentation, not the underlying hardware itself. Once the new owner starts applying road rash, getting the engine oily, letting the sun bake it, that presentation value disappears fast.
It’ll sell at that price,classic Country Squires especially 63 and 64 get good money if they are that mint.The one thing that bugs me is the upside down steering wheel,at that price you’d think they’d align it better.
ThunderRob, you got to be kidding, right? I guess I don’t know a joke when I hear one. Ha! I even scrolled to the picture of the front end of the car and yelled at my monitor, look you big dummy, the wheels are turned to the left half a turn. Good job Thunder, you got me…
Was going to post that.You think for all that money somebody would have picked up on that.It blocks the dash! And whats with the white engine?
1963 289 cid Ford V8 was white air cleaner and valve covers from the factory.
My dad traded his 59′ Ford wagon in on a new 63′ his last wagon,then at age 51 he traded that on a 67′ Mustang. My 66′ Mustang has the same wire hupcaps,there are a set on FB for $ 295.00
Man! Those were some long Fords!
great looking wagon done the iconic black/red combo. a little more attention should have been paid to in compartment where the tire was sitting. there was a good amount if rust showing. i bet with the 289 it is a slug on power. be nice if it were a packing 390 or more under the hood. can’t restore it for that price.
Grew up with the Country Sedan version of this. It had a 260 ci with a three-speed manual and, while no barnburner, it was adequate. Far better than a slug and good for many family vacations.
I like these old big wagons. And this one is very nice.
Often collectors and restorers will shy away from a wagon due to the lower resale and limited availability of parts. It’s really nice to see them when you do since they were a part of so many families up until the early 90’s.
This one’s a beaut!
That white paint on the engine? That’s not stock for a 289 correct? I know 352 was blue and 390 was gold… what was the 289?
I just have one question, are these things really pulling this kind of money? I mean it’s nice and all, but, 48K ?
Last year I was searching to replace my Dodge Magnum. The author is correct that pickings are pretty much nonexistent domestically. The unsightly Ford Flex being the only U.S. entry. And that stopped in ‘20 I believe. 48k seems a big ask for this but there might be someone who has fond memories of their childhood in one.
Puny 289, NO A/C, turd. PASS
I bought a $100 Special ‘64 Ford Country Sedan years ago that had a 289. Not a Pro Stock street brawler, but it had sufficient power for merging, and no issue with going 70 once you were on the Interstate.
This is very nice car. I’m not a fan of black cars, but at $48k it really doesn’t matter.
A black, full-size station wagon with no a/c in Houston, Texas… all for $48,000.
Summer vacations will be a bit steamy…