1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible: A Classic American Dream

Looking for a piece of automotive history that screams American muscle and iconic style? The 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible is a standout choice. This classic convertible embodies the spirit of its era, offering a blend of performance, design, and open-air driving pleasure that continues to captivate enthusiasts today. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into what makes the 1968 Fairlane Convertible a sought-after gem, covering its features, performance options, and why it remains a compelling classic car investment.

Exploring the Iconic Design of the 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible

The 1968 model year marked a significant redesign for the Ford Fairlane, giving it a more aggressive and contemporary look. The convertible body style, in particular, amplified its sporty appeal. Its sleek lines, distinctive front grille, and classic American proportions make it instantly recognizable.

Exterior Styling and Features

The exterior design of the 1968 Fairlane Convertible is a masterclass in late 60s automotive aesthetics. A prominent, horizontal grille dominates the front fascia, flanked by quad headlights. The body features a sculpted side profile that hints at its performance capabilities. The convertible top, when retracted, reveals a spacious interior perfect for cruising. — Harley-Davidson Sprint: A Compact Classic

• Body Lines: Smooth, flowing lines with a subtle fastback-like roofline even in convertible form.
• Chrome Accents: Generous use of chrome on the bumpers, grille, window surrounds, and side trim adds to its luxurious yet sporty feel.
• Convertible Top: A power-operated soft top was available, enhancing the convenience of open-air driving.

Interior Comfort and Layout

Inside, the 1968 Fairlane Convertible offered a comfortable and driver-focused cabin. The design was straightforward, prioritizing functionality and a comfortable experience for up to five passengers. The materials used were typical for the era, balancing durability with a touch of style.

• Seating: Bench seats were standard, offering ample space. Bucket seats were often an option, particularly in performance-oriented trims.
• Dashboard: A clear and functional dashboard featured essential gauges and controls, easily accessible to the driver.
• Space: Despite being a convertible, the Fairlane offered respectable interior and trunk space for its class.

Performance Options: Powering the 1968 Fairlane Convertible

Ford equipped the 1968 Fairlane Convertible with a range of engine options, catering to buyers seeking anything from economical cruising to thrilling performance. The availability of potent V8 engines cemented its place in the muscle car era.

Engine Choices and Specifications

The heart of any classic muscle car is its engine, and the 1968 Fairlane did not disappoint. Buyers could choose from several inline-six and V8 powerplants.

• 200 cu. in. Inline-6: The base engine, providing adequate power for daily driving.
• 289 cu. in. V8: A popular choice offering a good balance of power and efficiency.
• 302 cu. in. V8: Introduced for 1968, this engine provided a noticeable step up in performance.
• 390 cu. in. V8: A potent big-block option delivering significant horsepower and torque, popular for performance models.
• 427 cu. in. V8: For the ultimate performance enthusiast, the rare and legendary 427 cubic inch V8 was available, turning the Fairlane into a true street-legal race car.

Transmission Options

Complementing the engine choices were a variety of transmission options: — The Bradford At Easton: Luxury Apartments & Amenities

• 3-Speed Manual: Standard on many models.
• 4-Speed Manual: A highly desirable option for performance enthusiasts, offering greater control.
• 3-Speed Automatic (SelectShift Cruise-O-Matic): Available for those who preferred automatic shifting.

The Fairlane Experience: Driving and Owning a '68 Convertible

Owning and driving a 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible offers a unique connection to automotive heritage. It's an experience that goes beyond mere transportation; it's about enjoying the journey with the top down and the V8 rumbling. — Mega Millions: Next Drawing, Results, And How To Play

Driving Dynamics and Feel

The driving experience of a 1968 Fairlane Convertible is quintessential 1960s American car. With the right engine and suspension setup, it offers a comfortable ride suitable for long cruises, while its V8 options provide the muscle needed for spirited driving.

• Ride Comfort: The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections well.
• Handling: While not a sports car by modern standards, the handling is predictable and confidence-inspiring for its class. Performance models often featured upgraded suspension components.
• Power: The V8 engines, especially the larger displacement options, provide ample power for acceleration and highway cruising.

Maintenance and Parts Availability

As a classic car, the 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible requires regular maintenance. Fortunately, due to the Fairlane's popularity and Ford's widespread production, parts are generally accessible.

• Common Parts: Engine components, suspension parts, and interior trim are often readily available from specialty classic car parts suppliers.
• Specialty Parts: Some unique convertible-specific parts or trim pieces might require more searching or reproduction.
• Community Support: A strong enthusiast community exists for Ford Fairlanes, offering valuable advice and resources for maintenance and restoration.

Why the 1968 Fairlane Convertible is a Smart Classic Car Investment

The 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible is more than just a beautiful car; it represents a solid investment for collectors. Its combination of style, performance, and historical significance contributes to its enduring appeal and value.

Collectibility and Market Trends

Classic American convertibles from the late 1960s are highly sought after. The 1968 Fairlane Convertible benefits from this trend, especially models equipped with desirable V8 engines and options.

• Desirability Factors: Originality, condition, engine size (larger V8s are more valuable), and documented history significantly impact value.
• Market Appreciation: Well-maintained and rare examples have shown steady appreciation over the years.
• Nostalgia Factor: The car taps into a powerful sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of automotive freedom and style.

Notable Variations and Trims

Ford offered the Fairlane in various trims, and some are more collectible than others. Performance-oriented models like the GT or the rare Cobra (though less common in convertible form for '68) often command higher prices.

• GT Trim: Often featured a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension, and distinctive styling cues.
• GTA Trim: Similar to the GT but with an automatic transmission.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible

Q1: What were the most powerful engine options for the 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible?

A1: The most powerful engines available were the 390 cu. in. V8 and the extremely rare and potent 427 cu. in. V8. The 302 cu. in. V8 was also a popular performance option.

Q2: Is the 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible considered a muscle car?

A2: Yes, particularly when equipped with the larger V8 engines like the 390 or 427, the Fairlane Convertible fits squarely into the muscle car category of its era. Its performance-oriented options and styling support this classification.

Q3: How rare are 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertibles?

A3: While Ford produced a significant number of Fairlanes in 1968, the convertible versions are less common than their coupe or sedan counterparts. Specific engine and trim combinations, like those with the 427, are exceptionally rare.

Q4: What is the typical market value for a 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible?

A4: Market values vary widely based on condition, originality, engine, and historical documentation. Excellent, original examples with desirable V8s can range from $30,000 to well over $60,000, while project cars might be found for less.

Q5: Are parts readily available for a 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible?

A5: Yes, generally parts are available. Common mechanical parts and body panels are often reproduced or available through classic Ford parts suppliers. However, specific convertible top mechanisms or unique trim pieces might require more effort to source.

Q6: What was the original base price of a 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible?

A6: The original base price varied depending on the engine and options, but a convertible model would have started significantly higher than the coupe or sedan variants, likely in the range of $2,700 - $3,000 USD when new, before adding any optional equipment.

Conclusion: Embrace the Open Road with a 1968 Fairlane Convertible

The 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible stands as a magnificent example of American automotive design and performance from a golden age. Its captivating style, robust V8 engine options, and the sheer joy of top-down driving make it an enduring classic. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the classic car scene, this Fairlane offers a compelling blend of heritage, driving pleasure, and investment potential. Consider adding this iconic convertible to your collection and experience a true piece of automotive history.

Ready to find your own piece of American automotive history? Explore classic car listings and connect with specialists who can help you find the perfect 1968 Ford Fairlane Convertible.