{{short description|American full-size car}} {{for multi|the 1995–2023 MPV|Ford Galaxy|other uses|Galaxie (disambiguation)}} {{Use American English|date=April 2026}} {{Use mdy dates|date=April 2026}} {{Infobox automobile | name = Ford Galaxie | image = 1963 Ford Galaxie sedan 2 -- 06-05-2010.jpg | caption = 1963 Ford Galaxie 500 4-Door Sedan | manufacturer = [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]] | production = 1958–1974 (United States)<br />1964–1968 (Australia)<br />1967–1983 (Brazil) | model_years = 1959–1974 | assembly = {{ubl |[[Atlanta]], United States|[[Louisville, Kentucky|Louisville]], United States|[[Saint Paul, Minnesota|St. Paul]], United States|[[St. Louis]], United States|[[Norfolk, Virginia|Norfolk]], United States|[[Chicago]], United States|[[Mahwah, New Jersey|Mahwah]], United States|[[Pico Rivera, California|Pico Rivera]] United States|[[Wayne, Michigan|Wayne]], United States<ref>{{cite press release|publisher=Ford |title=Plant |url=http://media.ford.com/plant_display.cfm?plant_id=71 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090722200830/http://media.ford.com/plant_display.cfm?plant_id=71 |archive-date=2009-07-22 }}</ref>|[[Homebush West|Homebush]], [[Australia]]|[[São Paulo]], [[Brazil]] }} | class = [[Full-size]] | layout = [[FR layout]] | predecessor = [[Ford Fairlane (Americas)|Ford Fairlane]] | successor = [[Ford LTD (Americas)|Ford LTD]] }} The '''Ford Galaxie''' is a [[full-size automobile]] that was sold by the [[Ford Motor Company]] in North America from the 1959 to 1974 model years. Deriving its nameplate from a marketing tie-in with the excitement surrounding the [[Space Race]], the Galaxie was offered as a sedan within the [[full-size Ford]] range throughout its production run. In the full-size segment, the model line competed against the [[Chevrolet Impala]]<ref name="Odin">Odin, L.C. ''A concise guide to the Ford and Mercury full-size automobile production 1969–1978''. Belvedere Publishing, 2016. ASIN: B01HE91Y4K.</ref> and [[Plymouth Fury]].
The model line was assembled by Ford in multiple sites across the United States; four generations of the model line were produced. The Galaxie was also produced locally by [[Ford Australia]] and [[Ford Brasil]], adopting commonality from the third-generation 1965 design.
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== Nameplate usage == In 1958, a concept car was introduced called "la Galaxie" which incorporated the headlights into pods inline with the grille and a reduced front profile.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ford La Galaxie Concept Car (1958) |url=https://oldconceptcars.com/1930-2004/ford-la-galaxie-concept-car-1958/ |website=Old Concept Cars |date=3 March 2014 |publisher=Theme by Mauer Themes |access-date=19 April 2022}}</ref>
For 1962, all full-size Fords wore the Galaxie badge (replacing the Fairlane entirely), as higher-trim series took on Galaxie 500 and Galaxie 500XL badging. For 1965, the higher-content Galaxie 500 LTD was introduced as a flagship model. For 1966, the nomenclature was revised slightly. Alongside the introduction of the higher-performance Galaxie 500 7-Litre, the Galaxie 500 LTD became the Ford LTD, with the Galaxie now becoming the mid-level full-size series (above the Ford Custom/Custom 500). For 1967, the 500 7-Litre was phased into the Ford XL; along with the LTD, the Ford XL was slotted above the standard Galaxie/Galaxie 500.<ref name="XL">{{cite web |title=1967 Ford Full-Size brochure |url=http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1967_Ford/1967_Ford_Full_Size_Brochure/1967%20Ford%20Full%20Size-08-09.html |access-date=2015-10-03 |publisher=oldcarbrochures |pages=8 & 9}}</ref>
The Galaxie remained slotted as the mid-range full-size Ford into the 1970s between the Custom and the LTD (the XL was discontinued after 1970). After the 1974 model year, Ford dropped both the Galaxie and the Custom in favor of consolidating its full-size sedan line to the LTD (the Custom 500 remained in production for fleet sales).<ref name="Gunnell">{{cite book |last=Gunnell |first=John |title=Standard Catalogue of American Cars, 1946–1975 |year=2002 |edition=Revised 4th}}</ref>{{rp |401–42}}
==1959== {{Infobox automobile | image = 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Galaxie.jpg | caption = 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Galaxie sedan | name = First generation | production = 1958–1959 | model_years = 1959 | wheelbase = {{cvt|2997|mm|in|1}} | length = {{cvt|208|in|mm|0}}<ref name="autogenerated1946">{{cite book|title=Standard Catalog of American Cars 1946–1975|year=1982|publisher=Krause Publications|isbn=0-87341-027-0|editor=Gunnell, John A.}}</ref> | width = {{cvt|76.8|in|mm|0}}<ref>{{cite book|last=Flory, Jr.|first=J. "Kelly"|title=American Cars, 1946–1959 Every Model Every Year|year=2008|publisher=McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers|isbn=978-0-7864-3229-5}}</ref> | engine = {{ubl |{{cvt|223|cuin|L|lk=on}} [[Ford Straight-6 engine|OHV]] [[Straight-six engine|I6]]|{{cvt|272|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford Y-block engine|Y-block]] [[V8 engine|V8]]|{{cvt|292|cuin|L|1}} Y-block|{{cvt|312|cuin|L|1}} Y-block|{{cvt|332|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford FE engine|FE series]] V8|{{cvt|352|cuin|L|1}} FE series }} | transmission = {{ubl |2-speed [[Cruise-O-Matic]] [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]|3-speed automatic|3-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]] }} | body_style = {{ubl |2-door [[Sedan (car)|sedan]] (saloon)|4-door sedan|2-door [[hardtop]]|4-door hardtop|2-door [[convertible (car)|convertible]]<ref name = "Gunnell" />|2-door [[Convertible#Retractable hardtop roof|retractable hardtop]]<ref>[http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z8891/ford-galaxie.aspx ''1959 Ford Galaxie news, pictures, specifications, and information'', www.conceptcarz.com] Retrieved on 6 December 2014</ref> }} }} {{see also|1959 Ford}} The 1959 Ford range was introduced in late 1958 with the [[Fairlane 500]] as the top trim level.<ref name = "Gunnell" /> During the 1959 [[model year]], the Galaxie was added to the range as an additional trim level, assuming the top position from the Fairlane 500.<ref name = "Gunnell" />{{rp |402}} The Galaxie was offered with the same sedan and hardtop body styles as the Fairlane 500 whilst the Sunliner and [[Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner|Skyliner]] convertibles were moved across from the Fairlane 500 range.<ref name = "Gunnell" /> Styling varied from the Fairlane 500 with the addition of a [[Ford Thunderbird (second generation)|Ford Thunderbird]]-style [[C pillar]]<ref name = "Gunnell" /> on all but the Sunliner. Although a separate series from the Fairlane 500,<ref name = "Gunnell" /> 1959 Galaxie models carried both ''Fairlane 500'' and ''Galaxie'' badging.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1959_Ford/1959_Fords_Mailer/1959%20Fords-01.html |title=The 59 Fords (sales brochure) |publisher=oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=6 December 2014}}</ref>
In keeping with the era, the 1959 Galaxie was a chrome and stainless steel-bedecked vehicle with optional two-tone paint. It was the very image of the ostentatious late-1950s American automobiles, though somewhat tamer than its Chevrolet and Plymouth competitors. Ford advertised "safety anchorage" for the front seats.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1959_Ford/1959_Ford_Brochure_1/1959%20Ford-08.html |title=1959 Ford Brochure |page=8 |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref> The parking brake was now a pedal.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1959_Ford/1959_Ford_Brochure_1/1959%20Ford-09.html |title=1959 Ford Brochure |page=9 |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref> Seat belts, a padded dashboard, and child-proof rear door locks were optional, while a deep-dished steering wheel and double-door locks were standard.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1959_Ford/1959_Ford_Brochure_1/1959%20Ford-10.html |title=1959 Ford brochure |page=10 |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref>
Among the models was the Skyliner, moved up-market from the Fairlane 500 and featuring a retractable [[hardtop]] that folded down into the trunk space. This feature was complicated and expensive, and left very little trunk room when folded down. Power retractable hardtops have since been used by luxury manufacturers such as [[Mercedes-Benz]], [[Lexus]], and [[Cadillac]], but none of these had rear seats, necessitating a much smaller top mechanism than the Skyliner's. It was not until 2000, when the Peugeot 206cc arrived, that a retractable hardtop with a rear seat arrived. This was joined by the Peugeot 307cc in 2003, and later also by the [[Pontiac G6]] convertible and [[Volkswagen Eos]].
A fixture also was the previous year's 352 V8, still developing {{cvt|300|hp|kW PS|lk=on}}. <gallery widths="200" heights="150"> File:1959 Ford Galaxie Town Sedan.jpg|1959 Ford Galaxie Town sedan. 1959 Galaxies carried both ''Fairlane 500'' and ''Galaxie'' badges File:1959 Ford Galaxie Club Victoria (24534739636).jpg|1959 Ford Galaxie Club Victoria File:1959 Ford Galaxie Sunliner, front right - Småland, 2018.jpg|1959 Ford Galaxie Sunliner File:1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Galaxie Skyliner (42417065564) (cropped).jpg|1959 Ford Galaxie Skyliner, showing the roof retraction. </gallery> {{-}}
==1960–1964== {{Infobox automobile | image= 1960 Ford Galaxie Starliner.jpg | caption = 1960 Starliner | name =Second generation | production= 1959–1964 | model_years= 1960–1964 | wheelbase= {{cvt|3023|mm|in|1|disp=flip}} | length = {{cvt|213.7|in|mm|1}} (1960)<ref name="oldcarbrochures1960">{{cite web|url=http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1960_Ford/1960_Ford_Brochure/1960%20Ford-24.html |title = 1960 Ford brochure |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref> <br />{{cvt|209.9|in|mm|1}} (1961–1964)<ref name="autogenerated1946"/> | width = {{cvt|81.5|in|mm|0}}<ref name="oldcarbrochures1960"/> | transmission = {{ubl |2-speed ''[[Cruise-o-Matic|Ford-O-Matic]]'' automatic|3-speed ''[[Cruise-O-Matic]]'' automatic|3-Speed Manual|3-Speed Manual and overdrive|4-Speed Manual }} | engine= {{ubl |{{cvt|223|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford Straight-6 engine|Mileage Maker]]'' [[Straight-six engine|I6]]|{{cvt|260|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford Windsor engine|Windsor]] [[V8 engine|V8]]|{{cvt|289|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford Windsor engine|Windsor]] [[V8 engine|V8]]|{{cvt|292|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford Y-block engine|Y-block]] V8|{{cvt|352|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford FE engine|FE series]] V8|{{cvt|390|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford FE engine|FE series]] V8|{{cvt|406|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford FE engine|FE series]] V8|{{cvt|427|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford FE engine|FE series]] V8 }} | body_style={{ubl |2/4-door [[Sedan (car)|sedan]] | 2/4-door [[hardtop]] | 2-door [[convertible (car)|convertible]]<ref name = "Gunnell" />{{rp |403–14}} }} | related = {{ubl |[[Ford Fairlane (Americas)|Ford Fairlane]] (1960–1961)|[[Ford 300]] (1963)|[[Ford Custom]] (1964)|[[Ford Ranch Wagon]] (1960–1962)|[[Ford Country Sedan]]|[[Ford Country Squire]]|[[Ford Courier]] (1960)|[[Edsel Ranger]] (1960)|[[Edsel Villager]] (1960)|[[Mercury Meteor]] (1961)|[[Mercury Monterey]] (1961–1964)|[[Mercury Montclair]] (1964)|[[Mercury Park Lane]] (1964)|[[Mercury Commuter]] (1964)|[[Mercury Colony Park]] (1961–1964)|[[Mercury S-55]] (1962–1963)|[[Mercury Marauder]] (1963–1964) }} }}
{{see also|1960 Ford}}
;1960 [[File:1960 Ford Galaxie Sunliner.jpg|thumb|left|1960 Ford Galaxie Sunliner]] The 1960 Galaxie introduced all-new design with less ornamentation. A new body style was the ''Starliner'', featuring a huge, curving rear observation window on a pillarless, hardtop bodyshell. The thin, sloping rear roof pillar featured three "star" emblems that served as the Galaxie signature badge for all 1960 - 62 models. The formal roofed 2-door hardtop was not available this year, but the roofline was used for the Galaxie 2-door pillared sedan, complete with chromed window frames. It had been the most popular body style in the line for 1959, and sales dropped off sharply. Contrary to Ford's tradition of pie-plate round taillights, the 1960 featured "half-moon" lenses turned downward. The [[Pillar (car)|"A" pillar]] now swept backward instead of forward, making entering and exiting the car more convenient.
{{clear_left}} ;1961 [[File:1961 Ford Galaxie Sunliner, front right (Cruisin' the River Lowellville Car Show, June 19th, 2023).jpg|thumb|left|1961 Ford Galaxie Sunliner]] For 1961, the bodywork was redone again, although the underpinnings were the same as for 1960. This time, the tailfins were almost gone; the small blade-like fins capped smaller versions of 1959's "pie-plate" round taillamps once again. Performance was beginning to be a selling point, and the 1961 Galaxie offered a new {{convert|390|cuin|L|1|adj=on}} version of Ford's [[Ford FE engine|FE series]] pushrod [[V8 engine|V8]], which was available with either a four-barrel [[carburetor]] or, for higher performance, three two-barrel carburetors. The latter was rated at {{cvt|401|hp|kW|0}} (gross). The 352 was downgraded in favor of the 390; it was equipped with a 2-barrel carburetor and single exhaust. The Starliner was again offered this year, and Ford promoted this model with luxury and power equipment, but it was dropped at the end of the year, as the re-introduced square-roof hardtop coupe, the Galaxie Club Victoria, took the bulk of sales.
;1962 [[File:Galaxie 500 AV.jpg|thumb|left|1962 Ford Galaxie 500 Club Victoria]] [[File:Galaxie 500 AR.jpg|thumb|left|1962 Ford Galaxie 500 Club Victoria]] For 1962, the Galaxie name was applied to all of Ford's full size models, as the [[Ford Fairlane (North American)|Fairlane]] name was moved to a new intermediate model and Custom was temporarily retired. New top-line '''Galaxie 500''' (two-door sedan and hardtop, four-door sedan and hardtop, and "Sunliner" convertible) models offered plusher interiors, more chrome trim outside, and a few additional luxury items over and above what was standard on the plainer Galaxie models. Base Galaxie models were available in two- and four-door sedans as well as the plain Ranch Wagon. In an effort to stimulate midseason sales, Ford introduced a group of sporty cars along with a "Lively Ones" marketing campaign. These models featured the bucket seats and console that were popularized by the Chevrolet Corvair Monza, and included a Fairlane 500 Sports Coupe, and a Falcon Futura. The full-size line was available with new bucket-seats-and-console "Lively One," the '''Galaxie 500/XL''' (two-door hardtop and convertible). Ford stated in its sales literature that XL stood for "Xtra Lively."
The {{cvt|223|cid|L|1}} "Mileage Maker" [[Straight-6|6-cylinder]] was the base engine. The {{cvt|292|cid|L|1}} V8 was standard on the 500/XL. The XL had sportier trim inside and out. This model was Ford's response to Chevrolet's Super Sport option for the big [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]], which was introduced the previous year and saw a significant rise in sales for 1962. A {{cvt|406|cid|L|0}} engine was available in single four-barrel or triple-carbureted "six-barrel" form. Tailfins were gone, giving the 1962 models a more rounded, softer rear end look. Taillights were set lower into the rear panel and were partially sunken into the newly sculpted rear bumper. Outside, XL models got a thicker body side chrome spear, along with a new "Galaxie 500XL" emblem on each rear fender (including the convertible, where this badge replaced the "Sunliner" script). An oval version of the Galaxie "star" emblem replaced Ford crests on the roof sail panels on hardtops. Front fenders shapes were the same as 1961; a slightly modified flat-face grille featured a large "star"emblem in its center for all 500 and higher-priced Galaxie models.
The 1962 models were overweight by comparison to the Super Duty Pontiacs with their aluminum body panels and larger-displacement engines.<ref name="K84">Kirschenbaum, p. 84</ref> Therefore, late in the production run, Ford's Experimental Garage was ordered to reduce the weight of the Galaxie.<ref name="K84"/> It produced 11 "lightweight Galaxies", making use of fiberglass panels, as well as aluminum bumpers, fender aprons, and brackets;<ref name="K84" /> the result was a Galaxie weighing in at under {{cvt|3400|lb|kg|0}}.<ref name="K84"/> The base 2-door Club Sedan was {{cvt|3499|lb|kg|0}}.<ref>Flory, p. 169.</ref> It was an improvement.<ref name="K84"/>
;1963 [[File:1963 Ford Galaxie sedan, fL.jpg|thumb|left|1963 Ford Galaxie 4-door sedan]] The 1963 model was essentially unchanged save for some freshening and added trim; windshields were reshaped and a four-door hardtop 500/XL was added. A lower, [[fastback]] roofline was added mid-year to improve looks and make the big cars more competitive on the NASCAR tracks with less drag and reduced aerodynamic lift at high speed. This 1963½ model, the industry's first official "½ year" model,<ref name="K85">Kirschenbaum, p. 85.</ref> was called the "sports hardtop" or "fastback" (it shared this feature with the for 1963½ [[Ford Falcon (Americas)|Falcon]]).<ref name="K85"/> Galaxie buyers showed their preference as the new sports hardtop models handily outsold the "boxtop" square-roof models. The sports hardtop was available in both Galaxie 500, and Galaxie 500/XL trim. Mercury also received the new roofline (under the [[Mercury Marauder|Marauder]] badge) in Monterey, Montclair, and Park Lane models. This year, a no-frills big Ford, priced around $100.00 below the base Galaxie sedans, was offered, badged as the [[Ford 300 (1963)|Ford 300]]. It was offered for 1963 only, and was replaced by the Custom series in 1964. The "Swing-away" steering wheel became optional.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1963_Ford/1963_Ford_Brochure_1/1963%20Ford%20Brochure-11.html |title=1963 Ford Brochure |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref>
The Fairlane's newly enlarged "Challenger" V8 engine of {{cvt|260|cid|L|1}} replaced the Y-block {{cvt|292|cid|l|1}} as the entry level V8. Later in the year, the 260 was replaced with an enlarged version displacing 289 cubic inches. At the beginning of the 1963 model run, the 292 Y-block V8 was replaced as the base V8 engine with the Fairlane's new small block 260. The 260 proved underpowered for the heavy full size Ford and was replaced midyear (coincident with the introduction of the 63 and 1/2 models) with the 289 V8. The 289 was then the largest of the "small block series" that was first used (221 cubic inch version) in the 1962 [[Ford Fairlane (Americas)|Fairlane]]. The 260 was offered on the [[Ford Falcon (North America)|Falcon]] Sprint and later, in mid 1964, in the early version of the 1965 [[Ford Mustang|Mustang]]. By 1965 model introduction (in the fall of 1964), the 260 (which had disappointing performance in all versions including the Sprint and Mustang) was replaced by the 289 in all models. [[File:1963 Ford Galaxie 500 XL hardtop (6048285357).jpg|left|thumb|1963 Ford Galaxie 500 XL hardtop interior]] Ford continued to offer the FE series 352 in the 1963 full size, as well as 3 versions of the 390 V8 (regular, high performance, and police). Five different transmissions were offered for 1963. A 3-speed manual column shift was standard on all models except the 406 V8, which required the heavier duty Borg-Warner 4-speed manual. A three speed manual with overdrive was optional, but rarely ordered. The two-speed Ford-O-Matic was common with the 6-cylinder and small block V-8s, while the majority of big blocks (352 and 390) were ordered with the 3-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission. The availability of several different rear end ratios, along with 5 transmissions, and 8 different engines, led to a huge number of different driveline combinations for 1963. The most produced combination for the Galaxie and Galaxie 500 was the 352 V8, with Cruise-O-Matic and the 3.0 rear end ratio. Ford's "Club," "Town," and "Victoria" monikers for body styles were retired in 1963, replaced by generic labels, "2-door","4-door", and "Hardtop."
Partway through this year and in limited quantities, a new 427 replaced the 406 for racing applications. It was intended to meet NHRA and [[NASCAR]] 7-liter maximum engine size rules.<ref>Kirschenbaum, p. 88.</ref> This engine was rated at a {{cvt|425|hp|kW}} ([[Horsepower|gross horsepower]])<ref name="K85cap">Kirschenbaum, p. 85 caption.</ref> with 2 x 4 barrel [[Holley Performance Products|Holley]] carburetors<ref name="K85cap"/> and a solid lifter camshaft.
The 1963½ was still overweight, however.<ref name="K85" /> To be competitive in drag racing Ford produced 212{{citation needed | date=February 2010|reason=''Hot Rod'' counts "about 190" in all}} (around 170 from Ford Norfolk, about 20 from Ford Los Angeles)<ref name="K86">Kirschenbaum, p. 86.</ref> lightweight versions of the "R" code 427, in the Galaxie 500 Sport Special Tudor Fastback.<ref name="K85"/> Available only in Corinthian White with red vinyl interior,<ref name="K85"/> and with a list price of about US$4,200<ref name="K87">Kirschenbaum, p. 87.</ref> (when a base Ford 300 went for US$2,324, and XL Fastback was US$3,268),<ref>Flory, pp. 234–5.</ref> these cars came stock with Borg-Warner T-10 four-speed,<ref name = "K87" /> 4.11:1 rear axle, heavy-duty suspension and brakes,<ref name = "K85" /> and were fitted with a fiberglass hood (a flat piece at first, late in 1963 the popular blister hood also used on the [[Ford Fairlane (Americas)#Thunderbolt|Thunderbolt]]),<ref name="K85"/><ref name="K89">Kirschenbaum, p. 89.</ref> trunk, front fenders, and fender aprons,<ref name="K85" /> as well as aluminum bumpers and mounting brackets, transmission cases, and bellhousing. Hood springs, heater, trunk lining and mat, spare wheel and tire (and mounting bracket), trunk lid torsion bar, jack, lug wrench, one horn (of the stock two), armrests, rear ashtrays, courtesy lights, and dome light were removed to reduce weight.<ref>Kirschenbaum, pp. 85–6.</ref> The first 20 cars had functional fiberglass doors, which shaved {{cvt|25|lb|kg}};<ref name="K85cap" /> these were deleted because of Ford's concern for safety if used on the highway.{{citation needed |date= February 2010| reason=''Hot Rod'' doubts it}} The cars had all sound-deadening material removed, lightweight seats and floormats, and no options. They were not factory equipped with [[Cold air intake|cold-air induction]],<ref name="K87"/> as the Thunderbolt would be. In addition, they were built on the {{convert|45|lb|kg|0|adj=on}}-lighter Ford 300 chassis, originally intended for a smaller-displacement V8.<ref name = "K85" /> In all, the 427s were {{cvt|375|lb|kg}} lighter than before ({{cvt|425|lb|kg}} with the fiberglass doors).<ref name="K85"/>
The first two lightweight Galaxies, using {{cvt|289|cid|L|0}} bodies, were assembled at Wayne, Michigan, late in January 1963, to be tested at the 1963 [[NHRA Winternationals|Winternats]].<ref name="K86" /> They were delivered to Tasca Ford (East Providence, Rhode Island) and Bob Ford (Dearborn, Michigan).<ref name = "K86"/> Bill Lawton's Tasca Galaxie turned the best performance, with a 12.50 pass at {{cvt|116.60|mph|km/h|2}}.<ref name="K86"/> It was not enough against the 1963 [[Chevrolet Impala]] Z-11s in Limited Production/Stock, however.<ref name="K89"/>
Three more were assembled from parts and tested at Ford's Experimental Garage in Dearborn.<ref name="K86"/> One of the next two, the last Winternationals test cars, was prepared by Bill Stroppe in Long Beach, California, for Les Ritchey; it was featured in the July 1963 issue of ''Hot Rod''.<ref name="K86"/> For all their efforts, Ford discovered the Galaxies were still too heavy, and the project was abandoned.<ref name="K89" /> Some of these cars competed in England, Australia and South Africa after being modified by Holman and Moody who fitted them with disc brakes and other circuit racing components. Jack Sears won the [[1963 British Saloon Car Championship]] driving Galaxies and Cortinas and the racing Galaxies were also driven by Sir Jack Brabham, Graham Hill and other notable drivers of the period. The heavy Galaxies suffered from persistent brake failure that led to a number of crashes, and in late 1963 started using the 12-inch disc brakes from the Ford GT40 program. By this time the Lotus Cortinas were being developed and the big Galaxie became uncompetitive.
;1964 [[File:Ford Galaxie 500 Coupé 1964 Kingman Septembre 2012.jpg|thumb|1964 Ford Galaxie 500]] Model year 1964 was the fourth and final year of this body style. Interior trim was altered, and the exterior featured a more sculpted look which was actually designed to make the car more aerodynamic for NASCAR. The formal-roof "boxtop" style was no longer available, all non-wagon models now featuring the "[[fastback]]" roof design that was the runaway best-seller in 1963. The base 300 was replaced by a line of Custom and Custom 500 models. The 289 continued as the base V8 and was standard in the XL series. XL models got new thin-shell bucket seats with chrome trim. Federal regulations now required lap-style safety belts for both front outboard occupants. The ignition switch was moved from the left side of the steering column, to the right, but otherwise the attractive instrument panel remained unchanged from '63. The 1964 XL two-door hardtop became the best seller of any XL produced in any year.
The {{cvt|427|cid|L|1}} engine was used in 50 lightweight fiberglass-equipped cars for drag racing. These competed in North America but were still too heavy and Ford introduced the lightweight Fairlane Thunderbolt.
The Ford Country Squire station wagon, while wearing "Country Squire" badging, was actually part of the Galaxie 500 line. Some Country Squires had "Galaxie 500" badging on the glovebox indicating the series name. These [[station wagon]]s featured the same trims as Galaxie 500s, and were a step up from the base-model Country Sedan.
{{gallery | width = 200 | height = 135 |File:1960 Ford Galaxie.jpg|1960 Ford Galaxie Starliner hardtop |File:Ford Galaxie Coupe (Byward Auto Classic).jpg|1962 Ford Galaxie coupe |File:1964 Ford Galaxie 500 XL 2-Door Hardtop.JPG|1964 Ford Galaxie 500/XL 2-door hardtop |File:1964 Ford Galaxie 500 sedan, rear left (John Lloyd).jpg|1964 Ford Galaxie 500/XL 4-door hardtop (rear) }}
==1965–1968== {{Infobox automobile | image = 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 XL Convertible - 29481904545.jpg | caption = 1965 Galaxie 500 XL<br />(convertible) | name = Third generation | production = 1964–1968 ([[North America]])<br />1964–1968 ([[Australia]])<ref name=galid>{{citation | url = http://www.galaxie.com.au/gal_id.html | title = Which Galaxie is that? | publisher = Galaxie Australia | access-date = 7 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110217054505/http://galaxie.com.au/gal_id.html | archive-date = 17 February 2011 }}</ref><br />1967–1983 ([[Brazil]]) | model_years = 1965–1968 | engine = {{ubl | {{cvt|240|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford Straight-6 engine|Big Block 6]]'' [[Straight-six engine|I6]] | {{cvt|272|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford Y-block engine#272|Y-Block]]'' [[V8 engine|V8]] (Brazil) | {{cvt|289|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford Windsor engine#289|Windsor]]'' V8 | {{cvt|292|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford Y-block engine#292|Y-Block]]'' V8 (Brazil) | {{cvt|302|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford 302 engine|Windsor]]'' V8 | {{cvt|352|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford FE engine#352|FE]]'' V8 | {{cvt|390|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford FE engine#390|FE]]'' V8 | {{cvt|427|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford FE engine#427|FE]]'' V8 | {{cvt|428|cuin|L|1}} ''[[Ford FE engine#428|FE]]'' V8 }} | body_style = {{ubl |2-door [[hardtop]]|4-door [[Sedan (car)|sedan]]|4-door [[hardtop]]|2-door [[Convertible (car)|convertible]]<ref name = "Gunnell" /> }} | length = {{cvt|213|in|mm|0}}<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1967_Ford/1967_Ford_Full_Size_Brochure/1967%20Ford%20Full%20Size-26.html |title=1967 Ford Full Size brochure |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref> | related = {{ubl |[[Ford Custom]]|[[Ford LTD (Americas)|Ford LTD]]|[[Ford Ranch Wagon]]|[[Ford Country Sedan]]|[[Ford Country Squire]]|[[Mercury Monterey]]|[[Mercury Montclair]]|[[Mercury Park Lane]]|[[Mercury Marauder]] (1965)|[[Mercury S-55]] (1966–1967)|[[Mercury Marquis]] (1967–1968)|[[Mercury Commuter]]|[[Mercury Colony Park]] }} }} The '''1965''' Galaxie was an all-new design, featuring vertically stacked dual headlights. The cars were taller and bulkier than the previous year's. The new top-of-the-line designation was the ''Galaxie 500 LTD'' and ''Galaxie 500 XL''. The LTD and the XL trim package were accessory upgrades from the base Galaxie model. Engine choices were the same as 1964, except for an all-new {{cvt|240|cuin|L|1}} six-cylinder engine replacing the 1950s-era 223 "Mileage-Maker" six and the 352 was now equipped with dual exhausts and a four-barrel carburetor.
Suspension on the 1965 models was redesigned. Replacing the former leaf-spring rear suspension was a new three-link system, with coil springs. Interiors featured a new instrument panel, as well as two-way key vehicle access: the introduction of two keys was for valet parking, where the rounded head key would only open the trunk or locked glove compartment, while the squared-head key would only unlock the doors and the ignition.
The '''1966''' model had a slight "Coke Bottle" design and new horizontally split grille among other small changes.
A new model was introduced for 1966; the ''Galaxie 500 7 Litre'', fitted with a new engine, the 345 hp {{cvt|428|cuin|L|1}} Thunderbird V8. This engine was also available on the [[Ford Thunderbird]] and the [[Mercury S-55]]. The [[police car|police versions]] received a 360 hp version of the 428 known as the 'Police Interceptor' as [[police car]]s. Safety regulations for 1966 required seat belts front and rear on all new cars sold domestically. The Galaxie 500 would be the number three-selling convertible in the U.S. in 1966, with 27,454 sold; it was beaten by the [[Ford Mustang (first generation)#1964–1966|Mustang]] (at 72,119, by nearly 2.5:1) and by the [[Chevrolet Impala#Fourth generation (1965–1970)|Impala]] at 38,000.<ref>Flory, p. 412</ref> A parking brake light on the dashboard and an AM/FM radio were optional.<ref>{{cite book|last=Gunnell |first=John |title=standard catalog of American Muscle Cars 1960–1972 |year=2006 |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=0-89689-433-9}}</ref> The 1966 [[Ford LTD (North America)|LTD]] dropped the Galaxie name.<ref name = "Gunnell" />{{rp |423}}
The 1966 body style was introduced in [[Brazil]] ([[Ford do Brasil]]) as a 1967 model; it used the same platform and body throughout its lifetime until Brazilian production ended in 1983. A vehicle of this model was used by [[Elizabeth II|Queen Elizabeth]] during her visit to Chile in 1968, and has since been preserved by the Chilean government as a ceremonial [[Official_state_car#Chile|state car]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gutiérrez |first1=Patricio |title=El mítico Ford Galaxie |url=https://www.emol.com/noticias/Autos/2018/11/11/926727/El-mitico-Ford-Galaxie-500-Conoce-el-auto-que-la-Reina-Isabel-regalo-a-Chile-hace-50-anos.html |access-date=29 November 2021 |publisher=El Mercurio |date=11 November 2018}}</ref>
For '''1967''', the ''7 Litre'' model no longer carried the Galaxie name; it was to be the last year of it being separately identified. That identification was mainly trim such as horn ring and dashboard markings as well as the "Q" in the [[Vehicle Identification Number]]. The 7 Litre for 1967 was a trim and performance option on the '''Ford XL''', which was now a separate model as well.<ref name=XL/> Little else changed, except for trim and the styling; the same engines were available, from the {{cvt|240|cuin|L|1}} six-cylinder to the {{cvt|428|cuin|L|1}} V8. Modifications to the styling included adding a major bend in the center of the grille and making the model less "boxy" than the 1966 model. An [[8-track tape]] cartridge player became an option.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1967_Ford/1967_Ford_Full_Line_Brochure/1967%20Ford%20Full%20Line-03.html |title=1967 Ford Full Lin brochure |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref> Back-up lights were standard.<ref name="oldcarbrochures.com">{{cite web|url= http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1967_Ford/1967_Ford_Full_Line_Brochure/1967%20Ford%20Full%20Line-16.html |title=1967 Ford Full Line brochure |page=16 |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2015-10-03}}</ref>
For 1967 all Fords featured a large, padded hub in the center of the plastic steering wheel, along with an energy-absorbing steering column (introduced late into the 1967 model year),<ref name="oldcarbrochures.com"/> padded interior surfaces, recessed controls on the instrument panel, and front outboard shoulder belt anchors. Another safety related change was the introduction of the dual brake master cylinder used on all subsequent Galaxies (and other Ford models).
The '''1968''' model had a new grille with headlights arranged horizontally, although the body was essentially the same car from the windshield back. The 'long hood, short deck' style with a more upright roofline and a [[notchback]] rear was followed too, as was the new trend for concealed headlights on the ''XL'' and ''LTD''. One other change for 1968 was that the base V8 engine increased from {{cvt|289|cuin|L|1}} to {{cvt|302|cuin|L|1}}. Standard equipment included courtesy lights, a cigarette lighter, a suspended gas pedal, and padded front seat backs.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1968_Ford/1968_Ford_Brochure/1968%20Ford-22.html |title=1968 Ford brochure |page=22 |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2015-10-03}}</ref>
The 1968 models featured additional safety features, including side marker lights and shoulder belts on cars built after December 1, 1967. The 1967 model's large steering wheel hub was replaced by a soft "bar" spoke that ran through the diameter of the wheel (and like the 1967 style, was used throughout the Ford Motor Company line). A plastic horn ring was also featured.
<gallery widths="200" heights="150"> File:1965 Ford Galaxie 500 (14298503411).jpg|1965 Ford Galaxie 500/XL 2-Door Hardtop File:Ford Galaxie 500 Sedan (Centropolis Laval '10).jpg|1966 Ford Galaxie 500 4-Door Sedan File:Fordgalaxie.JPG|1966 Ford Galaxie 500/XL Convertible used as a presidential car in Chile. File:67Galaxie500.jpg|1967 Ford Galaxie 500 2-Door Hardtop File:1968 Ford Galaxie 500 (10767351255).jpg|1968 Ford Galaxie 500 2-Door Hardtop File:1968 Ford XL (3735248165) (cropped).jpg|1968 Ford XL Hardtop File:1968 Ford Galaxie 500 XL 2 door convertible (18609048003).jpg|1968 Ford XL Convertible </gallery>
{{clear}}
== 1969–1974 == {{Infobox automobile | name = Fourth generation | production = 1968–1974 | model_years = 1969–1974 | image = File:1974FordGalaxie500.jpg | caption = 1974 Ford Galaxie 500 2-Door Hardtop | body_style = {{ubl |2-door [[hardtop]]|4-door [[Sedan (car)|sedan]]|4-door [[hardtop]]|4-door [[station wagon]]|2-door [[convertible (car)|convertible]]<ref name = "Gunnell" /> }} | length = {{cvt|213.9|in|mm|0}} | engine = {{ubl |{{cvt|240|cuin|L|1}} [[Straight-six engine|I6]]|{{cvt|302|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford 302 engine|Windsor]] [[V8 engine|V8]]|{{cvt|351|cuin|L|1}} Windsor V8|{{cvt|390|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford FE engine#390|FE]] V8|{{cvt|400|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford 335 engine#400 and 351M|335]] V8|{{cvt|429|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford 385 engine|385]] V8|{{cvt|460|cuin|L|1}} [[Ford 385 engine|385]] V8 }} | related = {{ubl |[[Ford Custom]]|[[Ford LTD (Americas)|Ford LTD]]|[[Ford XL]]<br />[[Ford Ranch Wagon]]|[[Ford Country Sedan]]|[[Ford Country Squire]]|[[Mercury Monterey]]|[[Mercury Marquis]]|[[Mercury Marauder]]|[[Mercury Colony Park]] }} }}
The '''1969''' model was built on a new platform with a {{Convert|121|in|mm|adj=on}} wheelbase. It was the end for the 427 and 428 engines, save for only the police package versions which continued to use the 360 hp 428 P Code 'Police Interceptor' as their top motor for 1969-70.<ref name= Odin /> Replacing the FE series-based 427 and 428 engines was the new {{cvt|429|cuin|L|1}} "ThunderJet" that was introduced in the 1968 [[Ford Thunderbird]]; it was part of the new [[Ford 385 engine]] series. Power, at {{cvt|360|hp|kW}} for the dual-exhaust 4-barrel version, was higher than the 428's {{cvt|345|hp|kW}} and lower than the racing-bred 427's final rating of {{cvt|390|hp|kW}}; there was also a single-exhaust 2-barrel version with {{cvt|320|hp|kW}} available. The dashboard was built as a pod around the driver rather than traditionally extending across both sides. The ''XL'' and ''Galaxie 500 Sportsroof'' had rear sail panels to simulate a fastback roofline.<ref name= Odin /> The rear trim panel below the tail lights was used to distinguish the different trim levels. The ''Country Squire'' was, perhaps, the pinnacle of design for that wagon with the concealed headlights.
[[File:1969 Ford XL GT 429 Convertible front side view.jpg|thumb|left|1969 Ford XL GT 429 convertible]] [[File:1970FordXL.jpg|thumb|left|1970 Ford XL SportsRoof]] Headrests were featured on 1969 model cars built after January 1, 1969.<ref name= Odin /> It was not until 1968 that a station wagon was actually marketed under the ''Galaxie'' name. From 1955 to 1968 [[full-size Ford]] wagons were treated as a separate model series and were listed as ''Ranch Wagon'', ''Country Sedan'', and ''Country Squire''. For the 1969 model year a higher-trim ''Ranch Wagon'' was offered as the ''Custom 500 Ranch Wagon'', the ''Country Sedan'' the ''Galaxie Country Sedan'' and the ''Country Squire'' was marketed as the ''LTD Country Squire''.<ref name = "Gunnell" />{{rp |394–429}}
Galaxies for model year '''1970''' received minor trim changes. A new ignition lock was located on the right side of the steering column. Model year 1970 was the last year for the XL,<ref name= Odin /> but Galaxie 500 hardtop coupes were also available in both formal-roof and SportsRoof body styles. The optional 4-speed manual transmission, which was available on the 429 the year prior, was dropped for 1970.<ref name= Odin />
A complete redesign was offered for '''1971'''. This included a horizontal wrap around front bumper with a massive vertical center section much in the vein of concurrent [[Pontiac (automobile)|Pontiac]]s. Taillights lost the traditional "rocket" exhaust theme in favor of horizontal lights and trimmed center section.<ref name= Odin /> Rooflines were squared off and had a "formal" air. The ''XL'' was dropped, as were concealed headlight covers for the ''LTD''.<ref name= Odin /> The convertible was moved to the ''LTD'' series in 1970 (1971 model year) and lasted through 1972. The engine line-up saw some changes for '71. The 351 2v V8 was now standard equipment on all full-sized Fords save for the lower-line Custom & Custom 500 versions where the 240 straight six was still the base power plant with a 302 2v V8 and up still offered as options. The optional 390 2v FE V8 was replaced mid-year by a new 335 series 400 2v V8. The 429 4v was still the top engine, while the police-only versions received a new 370 hp 429 'Police Interceptor' as their new top offering. A column-shifted 3-speed manual was still the base transmission on the 240, 302 and 351 engines with Select-Shift automatic being optional but mandatory on all of the larger engines.<ref name= Odin />
Models for '''1972''' were similar but the vertical center grille section was now not so prominent as the front bumper now continued across it and the rear bumper was enlarged with inset taillamps. This was also the final year for the {{cvt|240|cuin|L|1}} [[Straight-six engine|six-cylinder engine]] and three-speed manual transmission (which was available only with the six-cylinder engine); all V8-powered Galaxies had SelectShift automatic transmission as standard equipment.<ref name= Odin />
The '''1973''' model was marginally shorter than previous models, but had a heavier, bulker appearance. Three towing packages were optional, each with increasing towing capacity.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1973_Ford/1973_Ford_Brochure/1973%20Ford-14.html |title=1973 Ford brochure |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref> For law men, there were multiple Police package versions available with engines ranging from the 351 2v to the powerful 460 Police Interceptor. Taxi packages continued to be offered as well.<ref>{{cite web|author=Dusan Ristic-Petrovic |url=http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/Misc%20Brochures/1973%20Police%20Vehicles/1973%20Police%20Vehicles-03.html |title=1973 Police Vehicles |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2015-10-03}}</ref> All 1973 full-sized Fords now came with a 351 2v V8-engine and SelectShift automatic transmission as their base driveline. Four-door sedans with metal door frames were replaced with a new "Pillared Hardtop" model which featured a thin "B" post and frameless door glass. This body style was offered together with the traditional pillarless four-door hardtop.
The '''1974''' model year was essentially a repeat of 1973, but it was the last year for the ''Galaxie 500'' name.<ref name= Odin /> Ford elected to consolidate most of its full-size models under the popular ''LTD'' name for 1975, while reserving the base-model [[Ford Custom|Custom 500]] (which was below the Galaxie 500) nameplate for fleet buyers and private customers who insisted on the lowest-priced full-sized model possible. Power front disc brakes were standard.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Ford/1974_Ford/1974_Ford_Full_Line_Brochure/1974%20Ford%20Full%20Line-02.html |title=1974 Ford Full Line brochure |publisher=Oldcarbrochures.com |access-date=2011-11-20}}</ref>
The ''LTD'' stayed on as the top full-size model. Although a top seller and high-end model for many years, the Galaxie was slowly phased out and de-emphasized by Ford Motor Co. in an effort to push the posher LTD as a mainstream full size car.<ref name= Odin />
Approximately 7,850,000 full-size Fords and Mercurys were sold over 1968–1978.<ref name="kowalke1997">{{cite book|last=Kowalke|first=Ron|title=Standard Catalog of American Cars 1946–1975|year=1997|publisher=Krause publications|isbn=0-87341-521-3|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/standardcatalogo00beve}}</ref><ref name="Flammang, James 1999">{{cite book|last=Flammang |first=James |title=Standard Catalog of American Cars 1976–1999 |edition=Third |publisher=Krause Publications |year=1999}}</ref> This makes it the second best selling Ford [[automobile platform]] after the [[Ford Model T]].<ref name= Odin />
{{gallery | width = 200 | height = 135 |File:1969FordGalaxie500.jpg|1969 Ford Galaxie 500 convertible |File:1970 Ford Galaxie 500 fastback.jpg|1970 Ford Galaxie 500 Sportsroof |File:1971 Ford Galaxie 500 (4899457749).jpg|1971 Ford Galaxie 500 4-door Hardtop |File:1971 Ford Galaxie 500 Coupe (17076073178).jpg|1971 Ford Galaxie 500 2-door Hardtop, rear view |File:1972 Ford Galaxie Station Wagon (14017479534).jpg|1972 Ford Galaxie 500 Country Sedan Station Wagon |File:1973 Ford Galaxie 500; Annandale, MN (28396981677).jpg|1973 Ford Galaxie 500 4-Door Pillared Hardtop }}
==Production statistics== {{Table alignment}} {| class="wikitable defaultcenter" |- ! Model year ! Galaxie production ! Total series production |- | 1959 | 464,100 | 733,700 |- | 1960 | 289,268 | 461,092 |- | 1961 | 349,665 | 486,284 |- | 1962 | 446,195 | 575,846 |- | 1963 | 648,010 | 774,382 |- | 1964 | 593,533 | 923,232 |- | 1965 | 564,008 | 978,429 |- | 1966 | 597,002 | 1,034,930 |- | 1967 | 426,941 | 877,127 |- | 1968 | 448,376 | 920,247 |- | 1969 | 421,197 | 998,796 |- | 1970 | 351,938 | 850,315 |- | 1971 | 322,351 | 917,856 |- | 1972 | 269,199 | 832,273 |- | 1973 | 233,554 | 941,054 |- | 1974 | 117,801 | 519,916 |} Total Series Production includes Custom, Custom 500, Seven Litre, Station Wagon, LTD, and all Galaxie models. Galaxie Production includes Galaxie, Galaxie 500, Galaxie 500XL, XL, and Galaxie 500 LTD when LTD was not a separate model (until 1966).<ref>{{citation | first = Robert | last = Lichty | title = Standard Catalog of Ford, 1903–1990 | edition = 1st | publisher = John Gunnell/Krause Publications | year = 1990 | isbn = 0-87341-140-4}}</ref>
==Australian production== [[File:Ford Galaxie 500 1966 Aus.JPG|thumb|1966 Australian Ford Galaxie 500]] The Ford Galaxie was also produced in [[Australia]] from late 1964 to 1968.<ref name=galid/> The 1965 model, which was designated as the Galaxie GE series by [[Ford Australia]], was assembled at Ford's [[Homebush West]] plant in [[Sydney]],<ref name=galid/> and was offered as a 4-door sedan with a choice of {{cvt|289|cid|l|1}} or {{cvt|390|cid|L|1}} cid V8 engines.<ref name=uniquecars>{{citation | url = http://www.uniquecars.carpoint.com.au/portal/alias__uniquecarsau/tabID__203009/ArticleID__8246/DesktopDefault.aspx | title = Star Gazing | publisher = Unique Cars | access-date = 10 May 2011}}</ref> 1966, 1967 and 1968 models were also assembled at Homebush prior to a change to full importation from 1969, with conversion from left to right hand drive being undertaken at Ford's [[Broadmeadows Assembly Plant|Broadmeadows]] facility in [[Melbourne]].<ref name=galid/> The 1969 model was marketed as the Galaxie LTD,<ref name= Odin /> as were subsequent models through to the introduction of the locally developed [[Ford Fairlane (Australia)#ZG / P5 (1973–1976)|Ford LTD]] in 1973.<ref>{{citation | first = Norm | last = Darwin | title = The History of Ford in Australia | year = 1986 | page = 140}}</ref>
Prior to local assembly which began in late 1964, small numbers of RHD full imports were sourced through select Australian Ford dealers, and also by Ford of Australia for executive use. RHD wagons, convertibles and fastbacks, 2- and 4-door hardtops, XLs and LTDs were generally sourced as full imports from Ford of Canada until approx 1968. The fully imported 1959 to early 1963 models used a 1959 U.S. Fairlane dashboard and instruments. In late 1963, a 1959 Edsel Corsair-based dashboard was used, and for 1964, a 1959 Edsel Ranger-based dashboard was used. However, some RHD 1963s and 1964s have been photographed with the more attractive U.S.-style 1964 cluster. Australian assembled 1965–1968 models were sourced in CKD form from Ford of Canada. The 1965–1967 model Galaxies adopted the RHD dashboard based on the 1963 Lincoln Continental. The 1967 models got the U.S.-market safety steering wheel with its thickly padded center hub. This wheel was retained for 1968, and the 1968 Torino cluster replaced the Continental version. Some right hand drive 1967 models have been seen with a mirror image of the US-style instrument panel for that year.
Australian assembled cars 1965–1968 received a woodgrain dashboard fascia, and accessories as standard, such as: * Power steering * Power brakes (front disc from 1967) * Radio with 390 engine * Automatic transmission * Wipers and washers (single speed intermittent wipers for 1965–1966, 2-speed from 1967) * 3-speed heater defroster
For the 1968 model year the 289 CID engine was dropped as the base option in favor of the new 302 CID (Windsor) V8.
Australian assembly of 1965 to 1968 model Galaxies from CKD kits totalled 3,124 vehicles with 1,766 of the 1969 to 1972 models converted to right-hand-drive in Australia.<ref>{{citation | url = https://sites.google.com/site/australiangalaxieregistry/home/history | publisher = Google Sites | title = Australian Galaxie Registry}}</ref>
==Brazilian production== [[File:Galaxie Landau 1982.JPG|thumb|1982 Ford Landau (a luxury Brazilian version of the Galaxie)]] The 1966 four-door sedan version of the Galaxie was also produced in [[Brazil]] under the names Galaxie, Galaxie 500, LTD and [[Ford Landau|Landau]] from 1967 to 1983. Two units were used as the presidential car until 1990. Some of these ran [[Ethanol fuel|neat ethanol (E100)]], and had 28 gallon fuel tanks.
The Brazilian production started in 1967, and finished in 1983. The 4 door sedan was the only body version available for that market.
The 1967 Brazilian Ford Galaxie was visually identical to its 1966 American counterpart. For that year model the only available engine was the {{cvt|272|CID|L|1}} Y-block v8, with a two barrel carburettor.
During the production, the 1967 body (or 1966 for the American market) remained - and received face-lifts through the years.
The main face-lift was in 1976, when the headlights became horizontally oriented, and the front end resembled the 1965 Lincoln Continental. Also from 1976, the {{cvt|302|CID|L|1}} V8 Windsor engine with a two barrel carburettor replaced the Y-block and became the only available option until the end of the Brazilian production in 1983.
{{clear}} ==Canadian variant== Starting in 1959, Ford of Canada produced a slightly retrimmed version of the Galaxie, marketed as the [[Meteor (automobile)|Meteor Montcalm]]. The Montcalm was virtually identical to the Galaxie except for minor side trim and revised grille and taillight inserts. Starting in 1965, the Montcalm used the Galaxie platform but featured Mercury styling. It was offered at Canadian Mercury dealerships until 1969.
*[[List of Ford vehicles]]
==Footnotes== {{Reflist|2}}
==References== * {{cite news|last=Kirschenbaum|first=Al |title=Galactic Journeys|work=Hot Rod|date=July 1990|page=84}} * {{cite book| last= Gunnell |first= John|title= Standard Catalog of American Cars, 1946–1975|publisher= [[Krause Publications]]|year= 2002| isbn= 978-0-87349-461-8}} * {{cite book| last= Lichty |first= Robert|title=Standard Catalog of Ford, 1903–1990|publisher= John Gunnell, [[Krause Publications]]|year= 1990|isbn= 0-87341-140-4}} * {{cite book|last=Flory|first=J. "Kelly" Jr. |title=American Cars 1960–1972|location=Jefferson, NC|publisher=McFarland & Coy|year=2004}}
==External links== {{commons category}} * [http://www.galaxieclub.com/ Ford Galaxie Club of America], association of owners dedicated to the restoration and preservation * {{imcdb vehicle|make=Ford|model=Galaxie|Ford Galaxie}}
{{Ford postwar template}} {{Ford Motor Company vehicles}}
[[Category:Ford vehicles|Galaxie]] [[Category:1960s cars]] [[Category:1970s cars]] [[Category:Convertibles]] [[Category:Coupés]] [[Category:Full-size vehicles]] [[Category:Motor vehicles manufactured in the United States]] [[Category:Muscle cars]] [[Category:Police vehicles]] [[Category:Rear-wheel-drive vehicles]] [[Category:Sedans]] [[Category:Station wagons]] [[Category:Cars introduced in 1958|Galaxie]] [[Category:Cars discontinued in 1974]]