Let me introduce you to a true gem of automotive history, a stunning 1964 Ford Galaxie 500XL convertible drenched in the enticing hue of Rangoon Red. Originally straight out of the St. Louis plant, this beauty hit the roads with a robust 390ci V8 engine, coupled with a four-speed toploader manual transmission and a 3.50:1 differential gearing. It spent a good chunk of its early years under the care of a collector, before finding its new custodianship with the current owner in 2008. At some point in its life, the engine got a substantial upgrade to a more monstrous 427ci FE V8, now sporting two Holley four-barrel carburetors. Recent restorations have touched on the carburetors, master cylinder, the convertible top pump, and even the car’s interior with a fresh look for the front seats and new carpeting. And now, the car is poised to find a new home, boasting a clean Texas title.
The Dashing Exterior
This Galaxie is wrapped in its original Rangoon Red finish, retaining the charm and character of a period when cars were truly captivating. In a nod to its upkeep, recent work included servicing the top hydraulics and giving the pump a rebuild. Although time leaves its mark and the gallery showcases some imperfections, those visitors still have a nod of acknowledgment to photos previously documented in May 2024.
Rolling on Classic Style
Proving that this car isn’t just about looks, it sits confidently on narrow whitewall tires, a testament to its classic roots. The suspension system features front coil and rear leaf springs, ensuring an authentic ride. The brakes, not left untouched, were serviced with a bleed in 2024 and the master cylinder underwent a detailed rebuild.
Interior Details
Inside, you’ll find an era-authentic environment with freshly replaced carpeting and bucket seats reupholstered to match their original factory patterns. It even retains its charming push-button AM/FM radio nestled in the dashboard, connecting passengers with a time when radio was king.
Driver’s Delight
The driver’s experience is enriched with a three-spoke steering wheel that features a chrome horn ring. This places prominence in front of an easy-to read horizontal 120-mph speedometer, complimented by gauges monitoring fuel level and coolant temperature. The odometer spins stories of time, currently showing 30k miles, with the most recent 2k miles inviting tales from 2024 to 2025.
Under the Hood
Tucked under that expansive hood is a mesmerizing 427ci V8 engine, believed to have been implanted around 20 years ago. Its peak performance is driven by a pair of four-barrel Holley carburetors, which were meticulously stripped, cleaned, and rebuilt. The fuel system was brought to top-notch status with flushing, while the fuel tank and sending unit were replaced. Essential fluids, along with spark plugs, valve cover gasket, and one bent pushrod, received attention to ensure all vital signs were strong. An MSD ignition module stands firm on the left inner fender, affirming this classic’s might.
Transmission & Rear End
It’s not just the engine that’s been pampered; the four-speed manual transmission and the solid 9″ rear end have also undergone fluid changes, ensuring smooth operations across the board.
Production Insights
Unlocking the secrets from its data plate reveals exciting production facts:
- Body 76B: Galaxie 500XL Convertible
- Color J: Rangoon Red
- Trim 86A: Black upholstery
- Date 30F: Built on June 30th
- DSO 53: Kansas City District Sales Office
- Axle 5: 3.50:1 standard axle
- Trans 5: Four-speed manual