1968 Ford Fairlane
The 1968 Ford Fairlane represented a significant evolution for Ford's mid-size offering, blending a more modern, clean-lined aesthetic with a range of performance options that appealed to a broad spectrum of buyers. Building upon the successful redesign of the previous year, the '68 Fairlane solidified its position as a versatile and desirable vehicle in the competitive American automotive market.
Design and Styling
The 1968 Fairlane sported a sleek, slightly more aggressive design than its predecessor. The prominent horizontally-oriented grille remained a key design element, but it was subtly refined with a more integrated look. The body lines were cleaner and more angular, featuring a distinctive "C-channel" contour running along the side, adding a sense of motion and sophistication. The quad headlights, a popular trend of the era, were retained and seamlessly integrated into the front fascia.
The rear of the car featured a new taillight design, often described as a "razor blade" or "flying wing" style, which was both distinctive and stylish. The overall proportions were well-balanced, giving the Fairlane a substantial yet not overwhelming presence. Buyers could choose from a variety of body styles, including:
- Two-door Coupe: The most popular and sporty option.
- Four-door Sedan: A practical choice for families.
- Station Wagon: The Country Squire offered woodgrain paneling, while the standard Fairlane wagon provided ample cargo space.
The introduction of the "Shelbyized" Fairlane GT/CS (California Special) added a layer of exclusivity and performance flair. This special edition featured unique styling cues like a fiberglass hood with scoops, a rear spoiler, specific badging, and a blackout grille, making it stand out from the standard models.
Powertrain and Performance
The 1968 Fairlane offered a diverse range of engine options, catering to both economy-minded and performance-oriented buyers. This flexibility was a key strength of the Fairlane model line.
- Base Engines: The standard engines typically included the economical 200 cubic inch inline-six engine, providing reliable transportation and good fuel efficiency.
- V8 Options: The V8 engine lineup was robust and appealing. Buyers could opt for:
- 289 cubic inch V8: A popular choice offering a good balance of power and efficiency.
- 302 cubic inch V8: Introduced as a replacement for the 289 in some configurations, offering improved performance.
- 390 cubic inch V8: A significant step up in performance, providing ample power for spirited driving. This engine was a hallmark of the Fairlane's performance credentials.
- 427 cubic inch V8: For the true muscle car enthusiast, the legendary 427 was available in select high-performance models, including the Fairlane Cobra, making it a formidable competitor on the drag strip and street.
Transmission choices included a three-speed manual, a four-speed manual (often paired with the larger V8s), and Ford's reliable three-speed automatic (Cruise-O-Matic).
Trim Levels and Features
The Fairlane was offered in several distinct trim levels, each with its own set of standard and optional features:
- Fairlane: The base model, offering essential features and a more budget-friendly price point.
- Fairlane 500: A step up from the base model, typically including upgraded interior appointments, additional brightwork, and more standard features.
- Fairlane GT: Positioned as a sportier model, the GT often came standard with the 390 V8, heavy-duty suspension, and sporty interior accents.
- Fairlane Cobra: The ultimate performance iteration of the Fairlane, specifically designed for speed and equipped with the powerful 427 V8, performance suspension, and distinctive styling cues.
- Fairlane GT/CS (California Special): A visually striking option exclusive to California dealers, offering unique cosmetic enhancements and a performance-oriented feel.
Optional features were plentiful and allowed buyers to further customize their Fairlane, including air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, upgraded interior materials, and various convenience and cosmetic packages.
Legacy
The 1968 Ford Fairlane holds a significant place in automotive history. It successfully navigated the middle ground between compact and full-size cars, offering a compelling blend of style, comfort, and performance. The availability of potent V8 engines, especially the legendary 427, cemented its status as a desirable muscle car in its own right. The GT/CS model, in particular, remains highly sought after by collectors for its unique styling and limited production. The 1968 Fairlane stands as a testament to Ford's ability to produce versatile and exciting vehicles that resonated with American consumers during a dynamic era of automotive design and performance.