What engine was in a 1962 Ford Galaxie?
The 1962 Ford Galaxie offered more than one engine option, with the most common choices being a 223 cubic inch inline-six and a 390 cubic inch V8 from Ford’s FE family. Engine availability varied by trim and production date.
Engine options in the 1962 Galaxie
In 1962, the Galaxie lineup could be equipped with either Ford’s economical inline-six or a V8 from the FE engine family. The exact engine depended on the model level and options chosen.
The following engine choices were available across the Galaxie lineup in 1962:
- 223 cubic inch inline-six (Thriftpower Six) — a common, economical option used across many Ford full-size models.
- 390 cubic inch V8 (FE-series) — the main V8 option for stronger performance in most Galaxie models, available with varying carburetion depending on configuration.
Note: Engine availability varied by body style, trim level (such as Galaxie, Galaxie 500, etc.), and production date. For a specific vehicle, the exact engine can be confirmed from the VIN/build sheet or original brochure.
Performance context and configuration notes
The inline-six provided modest power suitable for everyday driving, while the 390 V8 offered significantly more performance for buyers seeking quicker acceleration and higher top-end capability. Transmission choices typically included Ford’s manual options and the Cruise-O-Matic automatic, with exact pairings depending on the chosen engine and trim.
Why engine choice mattered
Choosing between the 223 inline-six and the 390 V8 affected fuel economy, acceleration, and overall driving experience. The six was favored for economy and smoothness, whereas the 390 V8 appealed to buyers prioritizing performance and highway ease.
Summary
For the 1962 Ford Galaxie, there wasn’t a single engine. Buyers could opt for a practical 223 cu in inline-six or a stronger 390 cu in V8, with the final configuration determined by trim level and options. This reflected Ford’s strategy to offer both efficiency and performance within the Galaxie lineup.
