What is it worth?

[kb3]

Found a 68 Fairlane 500 alongside the road today for sale. I am not really familiar with these. Looks to be a Torino, before Torinos? Bad news- 302 with auto. Good news- appears to be intact with all original parts. Needs a hood, and some body work. Interior needs to be gone through. Style intrigues me.

 

[JeffTepper]

Ken: In '68 the Fairlane 500 was one several trim levels for the Ford intermediate line. Others include the Fairlane (base) Torino, Torino Brougham, and Torino GT. It's been my impression that the '68-'69 Fairlanes/Torinos don't hold their values as well as the older ('63 - '67) Fairlanes. Also, due to demand ( or lack thereof) some of the trim pieces are not reproduced so a restoration might be more difficult than a Mustang. From the photo showing the rear plate, it appears to be a blue/yellow plate which generally were released near the end of 1969. That raises the the possibility that the car spent the first couple of years someplace else so look for signs of road salt rust damage. Though overall. it looks pretty solid check for rust in the trunk as leaky window gaskets have a way of letting rainwater in. All this being said, Haggerty shows an average value for a daily driver (condition #4) of $8500.00. My gut tells me the car is unremarkable with minimal options, with a "toasty" interior and a bit of surface rust on the chrome pieces. A cosmetic refurbishing looks to be about $6000 minimum plus any hidden structural and mechanical issues. As such I would peg the value at less than $4000 as it sits. What's the asking price?

 

[kb3]

I am only mildly interested in it due to it being different than most other cars at the shows. The trim is dented all over and due to it being a small block I will most likely pass

That being said, he is asking $4500.

 

[Horseplay]

Ken,

If the body is decent enough that there is no real metal work needed and you are looking for a new project...I like it! Does it run and drive? Who cares if it is a small block? What is preventing you from dropping in anything you want? Unless your goal is to restore to factory this looks like a good starting point vehicle. I'd do a little research on finding the missing chrome pieces and such before making an offer and adjust accordingly. I'm betting negotiated right you could drive that thing home for $3k or even less. It's amazing how cash under peoples noses makes them act. You do all your own work so costs are limited to parts, right? You could have a nice car and still not be too deep into it.

 

[kb3]

I really don't need another project, but like stray dogs they seem to follow me home. I did not talk to the owner so I will call him and take a closer look. Good thought on the research for the trim. I was thinking the $3k range was good. Thanks

 

[Fst Blk]

When I bought my FB, the guy also had a 67 Fairlane 2dr with a 289. I could have bought it for $500 more. It was extremely solid and a running/driving car. I regret not buying it, but had just bought the FB and had a 67 SWB Chevy in the garage at home. Should have bought it knowing what I know now.

Bill

 

[Mach1Mark]

Another option would be to de-chrome the car. Fill the holes an paint.

 

[KBMWRS]

If I had a place for it I'd love it. Go for it.