1962 Ford Galaxie Sunliner

Description

What you're seeing in this 1962 Ford Galaxie 500 XL convertible is a big pile of money that only looks like a vintage ragtop. With an extensive list of upgraded components, this is a turn-key car that's ready to rock with all the hard work already done, and the lowered stance and big wheels only emphasize one of the best-looking cars of the '60s.

I can't explain why the Galaxies don't get the same love as the Impalas, because this is one heck of a good-looking car at a bargain price. The paint is a pretty close approximation of the original code V Chestnut, albeit with a lot more metallic and a fantastic shine, so if you want to stand out in a sea of red, black, and white Galaxies, this is an outstanding way to do it. The finish is a few years old, perhaps the oldest part of the restoration, yet it looks fresh and shines brilliantly, a testament to a job done well. Look how well the doors fit, how neatly the trim lines up from panel to panel, and just the ultra-clean look of one of Ford's better ideas. The chrome and stainless trim is excellent, including the ornate grille, the taillight buckets and lenses, the aluminum section between the taillights, and both of the front fender ornaments, all of which give the car a detailed look without being over-done. The remaining stuff, including both bumpers, was sent out and restored to better-than-new condition, so the car looks like a million bucks.

The beautiful matching tri-tone interior looks simply awesome against the copper paint, and they did it right by using dark carpets and a color-matched dash to tie everything together. A bench seat and lots of space are par for the course in the luxury-oriented Galaxie, which was Ford's top-of-the-line in 1962. Obviously there's a lot of new stuff inside, and the pleated seat covers give it a sporting feel with plenty of room for six adults. The dash looks pretty original, and there's a period-perfect under-dash A/C unit that should be functional with a recharge. There is no radio, surprisingly enough, just a block-off plate, but thanks to a lot of new components like window felt, nice-looking cranks and regulators, and shiny door handles, it has a very complete, solid feeling. The tan power top stows under a matching copper-colored boot and the trunk is Spartan but shows no big signs of trouble awaiting a new owner.

The rebuilt 390 cubic inch V8 has a long list of new components. It's a period-correct block filled with correct Ford parts, plus a rebuilt distributor and a fresh oil pump to keep it alive. The big air cleaner matches the "Powered by Ford" valve covers that were a staple of Blue Oval performance in the early '60s. The big A/C compressor dominates the top of the engine bay, but there's also a correct expansion tank and accessory washer bag to add some contrast. The Ford-O-Matic three-speed automatic shifts well and we believe there are 3.00 gears out back that make it an easy highway cruiser. Obviously the suspension has been lowered, three or four inches in front and perhaps two or three inches in back, giving it a slammed stance that still rides well. The undercarriage is original and looks quite good, highlighted by a newer dual exhaust system. 20-inch wheels have a Torque Thrust look for a cool twist on an old favorite and are wrapped in 225/35/20 front and 255/35/20 rear tires.

You can't go wrong with one of the best looking cars of the era and the modifications do nothing to change the awesome look. This Galaxie is a sure-fire bet for summertime fun. Call today!