1964 Ford Galaxie 500 2-Door Hardtop Coupe
2020.0032.0001, Savoy Collection
Engine: 390 cu. in. (6.4L) Cast-iron block, OHV, V-8
Output: 300 HP @ 4,600 RPM
Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
Wheelbase: 119 in.
Overall Length: 209 in.
Weight: 3,402lbs.
Top Speed: Unknown
No. Produced: 157,284 total
Original Price: $2,737
Manufacturer: Ford
In 1958, the newly launched Edsel was on the debit side of Ford’s financial ledger. Things changed with the introduction of the Galaxie in 1959, along with the Mustang, which helped shore up Ford’s financial foundation. With all the look and feel of a luxury car, this “Thunderbirdization” of a full-size car created sales of 400,000 for the first year, and the 50 millionth Ford to roll off the assembly line was a Galaxie!
The 1964 Galaxie received top-to-bottom re-engineering. Only the slim-pillar roofline remained. That year, and throughout the brand’s lifespan, Galaxie adopted a rectangular design. The headlights were vertically stacked, and the taillights became square and beveled. Paving the way for the brand’s demise was the addition of an LTD package for the Galaxie 500XL. This was later developed into a freestanding model. Outselling the Galaxie almost two to one, the LTD remained, and the Galaxie brand was retired.