Ford Motor Company’s Total Performance racing/marketing program was properly in full force in 1963, but things picked up a notch mid-year with the introduction of the 427 (and, for the Fairlane, the 289 High-Performance). Another mid-year update was the introduction of the Sports Hardtop, which replaced the Thunderbird-inspired formality for a sleeker greenhouse that was much more NASCAR-friendly. Commonly referred to as a “fastback,” any mid-year Galaxie hardtop had looks on par with the best from Detroit. Our AutoHunter Spotlight illuminates these charms with this unrestored 1963½ Galaxie 500 fastback. Aside from the 390 Thunderbird V8 and three-speed Cruise-O-Matic transmission, this Galaxie 500 is equipped with power steering, AM/FM radio, upgraded dual exhaust system, and more. Painted red with a red vinyl interior, this classic Blue Oval is offered from the selling dealer with a clear title.
The seller claims this Rangoon Red Galaxie 500 is an original, unrestored example. It’s nicely complemented by longitudinal side trim, rear fender hashes, rear trunklid inlay, chrome front fender-top ornaments, driver-side chrome mirror, and Galaxie 500 and 390 badges. A set of 15 x 8-inch steel wheels with hubcaps are paired with 225/75 Cooper Cobra GT radials.
The red vinyl interior features a bench seat up front. Other interior features include power steering, factory AM/FM radio, clock, column-mounted automatic shifter, and dashboard cover.
The instrument panel consists of a 120-mph speedometer and gauges for the temperature and fuel. An aftermarket cluster measuring oil pressure and volts is mounted underneath the dashboard. The odometer shows 91,510, though the title reads mileage-exempt.
The 300-horsepower “Z-code” 390 was a popular choice among folks who wanted to have decent power and drivability without the concern for solid lifters. It is paired with a three-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission.
The undercarriage is what you’d expect for a car of this era: drum brakes all around, 3.00 single-traction rear gears, and dual exhaust system, the latter appearing to be updated from stock.
This 1963½ Ford Galaxie 500 fastback demonstrates Ford in peak form, owing to a special mix of style and power that could arguably be stated would never reach such heights again. Plus, it’s in original condition, and we know some of you just love unrestored cars, so have at it—the AutoHunter auction for this classic Ford ends on Monday August 25, 2025, at 11:45 a.m. (PDT).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery
