If we ignored the wider steel wheels, this 1962 Ford Fairlane could be a genuine sleeper. Its original, capable six-cylinder engine has been replaced by a V8, delivering a significant power gain that will improve performance. It presents extremely well, but there is scope for the buyer to make their mark on this classic. It is a turnkey proposition that is listed here on eBay in Chester, New York. The seller set their BIN at $11,895 OBO.
Ford introduced the Fourth Generation Fairlane in 1962. The company targeted the intermediate market, slotting the badge between the Falcon and the Galaxie. This first-year example makes a positive first impression in its fresh coat of Baffin Blue. There are no visible cosmetic shortcomings, with the paint shining impressively, and the panels as straight as an arrow. The good news continues when we examine the underside shots, with no evidence of rust or other issues. In fact, the floors are amongst the cleanest you will likely find on a classic of this vintage. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear. The seller’s decision to fit wider steel wheels with dog dish hubcaps and BF Goodrich tires should greatly improve the car’s handling and braking.
Although unlikely to win many show trophies, this Fairlane’s interior is tidy. A previous owner retrimmed the seats in two-tone Blue cloth, teamed with Dark Blue vinyl door trims. The seats and door trims are in good condition, as is the carpet. There are a couple of marks under the driver’s feet, but if they don’t respond to a deep clean, a set of nice floor mats would hide the problem. The wheel has significant wear that detracts from the appearance, and the headliner is well past its prime. This Fairlane retains its factory radio, and an upgraded JVC radio/cassette player hides in the glovebox.
Alrighty, then! It’s time to discuss why I view this Fairlane as a sleeper. The first owner ordered it with the 170ci six-cylinder engine, delivering a factory-quoted 101hp and 156 ft/lbs of torque. Its performance would have been competent, but would never have set pulses racing. However, the six is now a distant memory, with this car now featuring a 289ci V8, hooked to a three-speed automatic transmission. The V8 benefits from an updated camshaft, carburetor, and Performer intake, all from Edelbrock. The cam specs aren’t mentioned, but I see no reason why power and torque wouldn’t have doubled when compared to what the original owner enjoyed off the showroom floor. The seller recently replaced a long list of parts, including the plugs, plug wires, cap, points, belts, and most of the brake components. They supply this YouTube video, and while it doesn’t show the car in action, we hear the V8 running and sounding as sweet as a nut. The Fairlane is a turnkey proposition, allowing the buyer to fly in and drive it home.
Although I prefer original classics, I find this 1962 Ford Fairlane extremely attractive. It promises excellent performance, and its presentation is easily acceptable for enthusiasts seeking a driver-grade vehicle with no immediate needs. If the buyer replaced the headliner and threw in a set of floor mats, it would be ready to hit the road without costing a fortune. It hasn’t generated significant interest since hitting the market, which might be good news for potential buyers. It means they may not face stiff competition, which would improve their chances of negotiating a respectable price drop. Is that a prospect that you find irresistible?
Oh, I like this one too. Everything today seems to have to be done to the 9s, mostly to compliment the builders dreams, when something as simple as this, is what people want. To be clear, the 6 was IN-competent and IN-capable of any power. It should be noted, there was a 144 in line 6, I believe for the Falcon that didn’t make it to the Fairlane, and this was the 1st year for the forgotten “221” V8, the 1st Windsor motor(?), the smallest V8 made in the US. 260 came out mid year, and 289 in ’63. This is a perfect car for anyone today.
Wait, pshew, beat the “correction patrol”, the smallest V8 was the GM 215 that came out in 1961. Still, the 221 is almost forgotten.
This looks great just the way it is.
Don’t see many of these anymore either.