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What engine came in a 1965 Ford Galaxie?

The standard engine in the 1965 Ford Galaxie was the 289-cubic-inch V8; an optional 427-cubic-inch FE V8 was available on select, high-performance models, including police interceptor configurations. The 289 could be equipped with either a two-barrel or four-barrel carburetor depending on trim and package.


Engine options for the 1965 Galaxie


Below is a concise overview of the primary powerplants offered for the 1965 Galaxie lineup, noting which configurations were common and which were more specialized.



  • 289 cubic inch V8 with a two-barrel carburetor (2V) — the standard powerplant in many Galaxie models

  • 289 cubic inch V8 with a four-barrel carburetor (4V) — a higher-output option on certain trims

  • 427 cubic inch V8 (FE) — a high-performance engine available on select Galaxie models and typically associated with performance packages, including Police Interceptor variants


Engine availability varied by model, body style, and option package. The 427 option was relatively rare compared with the more common 289 variants and was most often tied to performance-oriented or law-enforcement configurations.


Summary


For most 1965 Ford Galaxie shoppers, the era’s standard powerplant was the 289-cubic-inch V8, with the notable 427-cubic-inch FE V8 offered as an upgrade on higher-trim or special-purpose models. This combination reflects Ford’s balance between everyday practicality and high-performance options in mid-1960s full-size vehicles.

How much is a 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 worth?


The value of a 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 varies significantly, but a good-condition model with average specs can be worth around $25,245, with prices ranging from the low thousands for project cars to over $100,000 for rare, exceptional examples. Key factors like the specific engine, body style (like the rarer XL or convertible), and overall condition are the main determinants of its value.
 
Factors influencing value

  • Condition: Cars in excellent, well-maintained condition are worth far more than those needing extensive work. 
  • Engine: More powerful or rare engines, such as the 427cid/425hp High-Performance engine, significantly increase a car's value. 
  • Body Style: Convertibles and the higher-end "XL" models are generally more valuable than base models or wagons. 
  • History and Documentation: A car with a clean history and original documentation will command a higher price. 

Valuation examples
  • Average: A 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 in good condition with average specs is valued around $25,245, according to Hagerty. 
  • High-end: The highest auction price for a 1965 Galaxie 500 in recent years was $100,800 for a rare, high-spec example. A 1965 Galaxie 500 XL Convertible with the 427cid/425hp engine has a projected value of $124,000, notes Hagerty. 
  • Low-end: The lowest auction price was around $6,090 for a car in poor condition or with issues. You may also find project cars listed for less. 



What motor was in the Ford Galaxie?


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.



How much horsepower does a 1965 Ford Galaxie have?


Used 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 2 Door Hardtop (427/425hp) Specs | J.D. Power.



What engines are in the 1965 Galaxie 500?


CAR OF THE DAY: The 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 featured a range of engine options, including the 289, 302, 352, 390, and 427 V8 engines, along with various body styles and trim levels. The 1965 Galaxie was an all-new design, featuring vertically stacked dual headlights.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.