Triple-Black: 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 Convertible

This 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 Convertible is a stunning classic, with a Triple-Black trim and combination that can’t help but draw attention. However, it also shows that some cars aren’t what they appear to be, as the images suggest it has undergone a color change. Whatever the truth, it is a turnkey proposition, ready for action with a new owner behind the wheel. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Pnuts for spotting the Galaxie listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Cincinnati, Ohio. The seller set their price for this gem at $23,000.

After serving as the top trim level above the Fairlane 500 in Ford’s 1959 full-size range, the 1960 model year brought the Galaxie a dramatically restyled body. Although it retained fins, they weren’t as dramatic as those of its predecessor. By the time our featured Convertible rolled off the line in 1964, they were a distant memory. It wouldn’t be an understatement to call it stunning, which is typical of most Triple-Black classics. The paint shines beautifully, and the power top seems to fit well. There is no evidence of rust or panel imperfections. So far, the news is positive, but digging deeper reveals that things aren’t all that they seem. The seller provides a clear image of the Body Plate, which shows the paint color as Code S. That doesn’t translate to Raven Black, but indicates that this Galaxie left the factory wearing Cascade Green Poly. It is unclear when the change occurred, but with no evidence of the previous shade in the listing images, it appears that the person performing the work focused on a quality finish. The Ford wears fender skirts that accentuate its low styling, but these could be removed if they don’t appeal to the buyer’s taste. The trim looks excellent, and there are no visible glass issues.

Although it might stretch credibility to describe the Galaxie’s interior as “factory-fresh,” its presentation is comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade classic of this vintage. Trimmed in Black vinyl with White piping and matching inserts, there are no rips or tears and no evidence of sagging seat foam. The carpet is clean, the dash is excellent, and the gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings. Manufacturers still enjoyed producing cars with bright interior metal components, and those in this Convertible look first-class. There are no obvious additions to an interior that left the factory equipped with a clock and a pushbutton radio.

Galaxie buyers in 1964 could select from an impressive selection of motors to power their new purchase. This Convertible features a 352ci “Thunderbird” V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. Ford’s 1964 Model Line Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 250hp and 352 ft/lbs for the V8. Although that doesn’t make it the most potent vehicle in the Galaxie fleet, its performance would be pretty respectable in most circumstances. The seller states that the car recently received a service and a new battery, and that the deal includes the Owner’s Manual and some Service Records. They also confirm that the Galaxie runs and drives extremely well, with no mechanical issues identified.

Some enthusiasts focus on originality, refusing to contemplate purchasing a classic that isn’t as it left the factory. Others will compromise, and that might be the case with this 1964 Galaxie 500 Convertible. If the Body Plate is correct, someone has performed a color change. However, it is still a stunning vehicle and would look nice in any driveway. It has only been on the market for a short time, and with the seller’s price appearing quite realistic, I believe it will find a new home fairly quickly. It will be interesting to discover whether any Barn Finds readers would contemplate pursuing it further.