Fantastic original, unrestored Galaxie. Beautiful and unusual color combination with rare padded roof and gorgeous original interior. Strong-running 352 cubic inch V8, automatic, power steering, power brakes. Ford’s full-sized cruiser in exceptional original condition!

The fastback roofline on this 1964 Galaxie 500 owes its existence to NASCAR, where Ford was committed to building winning machines. The formal, upright roofline on the standard Galaxie acted like a parachute, so designers came up with the sloping roofline fondly called the “fastback” to help improve aero performance on the high ovals. What they ultimately did was create what is arguably the best-looking full-sized Ford of the 1960s. This one shows just over 42,000 original miles and comes form long-term ownership where its originality has been preserved, not erased. It certainly appears that all of the code X Vintage Burgundy paint is indeed vintage—there are no signs of a respray or touch-ups. Sure, there are a few signs of use and age appropriate to nearly 60 years of fun, but nothing that requires attention and it would be a crime to repaint this awesome survivor. The doors close with the kind of precision that’s normally reserved for solid original cars and it feels substantial going down the road. That padded roof is a seldom-seen feature on these cars but we find it works rather well, giving the illusion of a convertible while preserving the sleek fastback profile. There are no splits or tears, nor are there any signs of trouble underneath. There’s also quite a bit of nicely preserved chrome that shines up nicely, giving the car a pleasing all-of-a-piece look that works very well.

If you really need to know why this car is special, just take a look inside. That’s a completely original factory tan cloth and vinyl interior that’s not only beautifully styled but also extremely well preserved. Ford designers gave the flagship Galaxie funky brocade fabric that feels expensive and obviously stands up to wear. No tears, no popped seams, just some discoloration on the driver’s door panel where someone’s elbow has been resting for six decades. The subtle dark tan tones of the dashboard contrast beautifully with the upholstery and the cream-faced gauges are not only attractive but fully functional. Seat belts have been added front and rear, which is always a good idea, and there are aftermarket carpeted floor mats protecting the floors. The headliner is remarkably well preserved with no discoloration or sagging, again suggesting that this car has led a very easy life. And, of course, there’s a truly massive trunk outfitted with a correct plaid mat, full-sized spare tire, and jack assembly.

You could get a dizzying array of engines in the Galaxie 500, with this car carrying the X-code 352 cubic inch V8. Topped by a 4-barrel carburetor, it makes a rather stout 250 horsepower and the kind of torque that makes the car feel effortless. The engine bay has been freshened but never fully disassembled, so the details look right and it runs so smoothly you might not even feel it idling. There’s a lot of recent work, including a tune-up, belts and hoses, and fresh fluids, so it’s ready to drive and enjoy. You’ll also note that it has both power steering and power brakes, so anyone can handle this big coupe with ease. Ford’s reliable Cruise-O-Matic 3-speed automatic handles the gear changes and there are 3.00 gears in the 9-inch rear end, making this a superlative highway cruiser. Note that the floors and rockers are completely sold and protected by a layer of undercoating, but it’s not so thick that it’s hiding anything serious. Factory markings are still visible on some of the suspension components, and it does have that incomparable big luxury car ride. The dual exhaust system uses glasspack-style mufflers so it has a nice burble but nothing that gets obnoxious when you just want to cruise. 14-inch steel wheels carry spinner-type hubcaps and whitewall radials for a period-perfect look.

Extras include an original owner’s manual, extra hubcaps, and reproduction door thresholds.

It’s no secret that we love unmolested original cars, and this Galaxie ticks all the important boxes. It’s a great body style, wears gorgeous colors, and the interior is just spectacular. And the best thing about original cars is how they drive, and this car will make you a believer—it’s smooth and confident. If you’re a full-sized Ford fan, this Galaxie deserves a closer look. Call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.