The 5th generation Fairlane, sold for 1966 and 1967, marked a significant shift for the nameplate. It grew into an intermediate-sized car with fresh styling that featured stacked quad headlights and classic "coke-bottle" side contours. More importantly, this new platform could accommodate Ford's FE big-block V8s, instantly turning the Fairlane into a serious muscle car.
Collectors are drawn to the high-performance variants. While six-cylinder and small-block V8 models exist, the 390-powered GT and GTA (for the automatic) versions are the sweet spot for many enthusiasts. The ultimate prize is the R-code Fairlane 500XL or the stripped-down 500, which came equipped with the potent 427 side-oiler V8 and a 4-speed manual. These cars were built for drag racing and are exceptionally rare and valuable today.
The market for these Fairlanes is incredibly diverse, with an average sale price around $44,000. This average is skewed by the handful of ultra-rare 427 cars that sell for six figures. Most of the market consists of coupes and convertibles with 289 or 390 V8s, which offer a great entry point into 1960s muscle without the extreme cost of the top-tier R-codes.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest enemy. Pay close attention to the rear quarter panels, trunk floor, front frame rails, and the area around the leaf spring mounts.
- Shock towers are a known weak point, especially on big-block cars. Inspect them carefully for cracks or shoddy repairs, as proper fixes are intensive.
- Verify engine and trim authenticity. Many base models have been cloned into more desirable GT or 427 replicas. Check VIN and door data plates against the car's equipment.
- For performance models, confirm the presence of correct parts like reinforced suspension components and 9-inch rear ends. Originality significantly impacts value.
Prices range from as little as $2,000 for project cars to nearly $300,000 for concours-level, high-performance variants.
538 Ford Fairlane 5th Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 103 currently live. Sold prices range from $500 to $349,900.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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