1963 Ford Galaxie 500 XL Convertible

Description

 “The Galaxie 500 XL is Ford’s finest — designed for those who demand the ultimate in luxury and performance.” Introduced during a time of rapid innovation and cultural change in the U.S., the 1963 Galaxie 500 XL was Ford’s top-tier trim — “XL means Extra Luxury”— offering comfort and sportiness in a single package. The convertible version added flair to an already upscale model.  

This model year featured a sleeker, more aerodynamic “fastback” roofline on hardtops, inspired by Ford’s involvement in NASCAR, though the convertible retained a more traditional profile. Under the hood, buyers could choose from a range of V8 engines, including the powerful 427 cu-in FE, which made the Galaxie a formidable presence on the drag strip and oval track alike, though the 390 cu-in FE V8 found on this highly original convertible was the most popular street version.  

The 1963 Galaxie 500 XL Convertible was also a reflection of the optimism of the era: big, bold, and confident. It was a car for cruising America’s growing highway system, a symbol of freedom and prosperity. Or as Ford stated it, “The quiet ride, the solid feel, the look of action —Galaxie 500 XL is the car that says you’ve arrived.”   Highlights 

• Original, unmodified Galaxie 500 convertible in XL trim 

• Showing 62,840 miles, believed original 

• 390 cu-in V8 with four-barrel carburetor rated at 300 hp 

• Cruise-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission 

• Finished in original Rangoon Red (J) resprayed by a previous owner  

• Red vinyl (85) XL bucket seat interior with center console 

• White power convertible top 

• The Data Plate decodes as: 

  • Body: 76B – Galaxie 500 XL Convertible body style  

  • Color: J – Rangoon Red   

  • Trim: 85 – Red vinyl upholstery 

  • Date: 02K – 02 October build date  

  • DSO: 36 – Louisville, Kentucky, sales district  

• The chassis number (3U69Z107117) decodes as: 

  • 3 – 1963 model year 

  • V – Louisville, Kentucky, final assembly plant 

  • 69 – Body Style 500 XL Two-door Convertible  

  • Z – Engine code 390 cu-in V8, four-barrel carburetor, high performance  

  • 107117 – Sequential Production number starting at 100001 

Features 

• Factory options include: 

  • Heater  

  • AM radio  

  • Power windows  

  • Power steering  

  • Power brakes (recently rebuilt including booster) 

  • Power convertible top  

  • “Ben-Hur” hubcaps  

  • Factory fender skirts  

• Auxiliary gauges

• Working spotlights  

Known Imperfections 

• Radio does not work 

• Exterior paint shows some wear but is very presentable 

• Driver's side window is cracked, however, there is a set of original side windows that come with the car 

Included 

• Keys 

• Set of original side window glass 

Ownership History   The consignor of this 1963 Ford Galaxie 500 XL Convertible states, “Never rusted, original mileage, number matching car, brought in Virginia in 2009, never in rain. It is an original automobile that has not been hot-rodded or customized. Exterior had been painted sometime in the past by a previous owner.”