1963 Ford Falcon

Description

Look, we both know that you're not going to get more convertible for the money than this 1963 Ford Falcon. Restored and ready to enjoy, the only ragtops that cost less are projects and there's just no way you'll get a project car into this condition for this price.

It does indeed say code J Rangoon Red on the door tag, meaning that this little car has a big personality. Clearly borrowing styling elements from its big brother the Galaxie, it has a grown-up look that's perfect for the early '60s and quite appealing today. For under $15,000, you're getting some really nice bodywork and paint whose only demerit is age, but it's clear that someone has loved this Falcon. The steel underneath is in good order and there's no sagging or binding in the doors to suggest previous issues under the skin. You'll also note that the hood and deck lid fit quite well, the jet-inspired taillights have bright trim rings and clear lenses, and all the side trim lines up well from panel to panel. The affordable Falcon looks more expensive than it is thanks to lots of neat details like the ornaments atop each front fender, a faux hood scoop, and bright chrome bumpers that remain in very good condition. If you were restoring a car like this, you'd spend close to the asking price before the paint was even dry.

For your money, you also get a bucket seat interior with nicely restored upholstery, matching red carpets, and flashy door panels that wouldn't look out of place in a much more expensive car. The dash pad is perhaps original and in good shape, although it shows a few cracks that are inevitable, particularly in a ragtop. The steering wheel was obviously restored, but we're pretty sure the gauges and surrounding panel are original and in good condition. The knobs underneath the primary cluster control things like the lights, heater and defroster, and the power convertible top, and the factory AM radio has matching knobs to tie it all together. The plastic pieces are remarkably well-preserved, and again, you'll probably spend a significant fraction of the asking price to get an interior restored to this level. The white top fits well and has a big rear window, so the Falcon is ideal around town, and even the trunk has an upscale look with a reproduction plaid mat and spare tire with cover.

Being on a budget means that the thrifty 170 cubic inch inline-six will appeal to you. The Falcon is quite light, so performance is good around town and it feels agile running through traffic. The engine bay is clean and well-maintained, if not detailed for show. The original air cleaner still lives atop the carburetor, with most of the engine's major components painted to match the bodywork. It starts easily and has a pleasant six cylinder grumble from the single exhaust pipe. The 2-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission makes the most of the engine's torque curve and with 3.50 gears out back, it zips around without getting buzzy. Handsome US Royal wide whitewall tires and wire wheel covers help with the sophisticated look.

So yes, you could probably get a less expensive convertible, buy why would you? Take the easy way home and come get this Falcon. Call now!