What is the value of a 1959 Ford Fairlane?
Prices for a 1959 Ford Fairlane vary widely depending on condition, trim, and originality. In general, expect a drivable survivor to sit in the mid-range (roughly $15,000–$25,000), while a fully restored or highly original example can reach $30,000–$60,000, and rare top-trim variants or convertibles can push beyond $60,000.
What drives the value of a 1959 Ford Fairlane
Several factors determine how much a 1959 Ford Fairlane is worth on today’s market. Below is a guide to the key elements that buyers and sellers consider when assessing value.
Trim, body style, and rarity
The Fairlane line from 1959 included several trim levels and body styles, with the more desirable configurations—such as two-door hardtops, convertibles, and higher-spec "Fairlane 500" or top-line variants—typically commanding higher prices than basic sedans. Convertible models, in particular, are scarce and usually fetch a premium.
Condition and restoration quality
Value tracks closely with how well the car has been maintained or restored. A high-quality restoration that is close to factory specifications, including correct trim and paint, will be worth more than a rough paint-and-body job or a project requiring extensive work.
Originality and matching numbers
Cars with original or correctly restored components (engine, transmission, rear axle, and important options) tend to be valued higher. Documentation demonstrating originality or a documented restoration history can boost value significantly.
Documentation and provenance
Carfax-like history, ownership records, original window stickers, or historical sales records can add credibility and desirability, especially for collectors seeking a well-documented example.
Market and regional demand
Interest in classic Fords fluctuates by region and over time. Midwest and West Coast markets, for example, often have strong demand for mid-century American cars, which can influence selling price and negotiation dynamics.
Notable variants and restoration quality are among the most impactful factors, so buyers should evaluate these areas carefully when assessing value.
Current market ranges by condition
Market ranges are estimates based on current collector-car pricing data and recent listings. Values can vary by location, provenance, and the specifics of a given car. Use these as a baseline and consult multiple sources for the most up-to-date numbers.
- Project or non-running (with significant work needed): $2,000–$6,000
- Fair to poor condition (needs cosmetic/refinish work, not currently drivable): $6,000–$12,000
- Driver-quality (running and usable with some cosmetic work): $15,000–$25,000
- Good to very good (solid restoration or strong original with some restoration): $25,000–$40,000
- Excellent/Concours-quality or rare variant (top condition, numbers-matching, proper restoration): $50,000–$100,000+
Convertibles and higher-trim variants (when in excellent condition and properly restored) tend to sit at the upper end of these ranges, while standard sedans and four-door configurations generally fall toward the lower end, all else being equal.
How to research current values
To get the best sense of value for a specific 1959 Ford Fairlane, check these resources and practices:
- Consult the Hagerty Price Guide for current market values by condition and configuration.
- Review NADA Guides for wholesale and retail pricing across body styles and trims.
- Browse recent listings on classic-car marketplaces and auction results (e.g., Bring a Trailer, ClassicCars.com, Mecum).
- Compare similar cars with matching-year, trim, and condition to gauge a realistic asking price.
Gathering data from these sources will help you narrow the value range for a specific Fairlane in your possession or in your target market.
Summary
The 1959 Ford Fairlane sits in a value spectrum that ranges from a few thousand dollars for rough, non-running projects to six figures for pristine, rare, or highly original Convertibles and top-trim models. The most influential factors are condition, trim level, originality (matching numbers), and provenance, along with market demand by region. For a current, precise value, consult updated price guides and recent sale results, and consider a professional appraisal for a formal assessment.
How much is a Ford Fairlane worth?
The value of a Ford Fairlane varies widely depending on the model year, condition, mileage, and trim, with a broad range from around $9,500 to over $199,000. For specific years and conditions, you can expect values like a 1957 base model in good condition at around $15,407 or a 1969 base model in good condition at approximately $8,478.
Factors influencing value
- Condition: A car's physical state, including the body, engine, and interior, is a primary factor.
- Year and model: Specific model years, like the 1956 Crown Victoria or 1966 GT, command higher prices due to rarity and demand.
- Mileage: Lower mileage cars are generally more valuable.
- Features: Optional features can increase a car's worth.
- Location: Prices can vary by region, as seen in the examples of vehicles for sale in Ohio and Texas.
Example values by year and condition
- 1956 Ford Fairlane Crown Victoria: Around $72,000 in good condition.
- 1957 Ford Fairlane Base: Around $15,407 in good condition.
- 1964 Ford Fairlane Base: Around $14,050 in good condition.
- 1965 Ford Fairlane 500: Around $20,979 in good condition.
- 1967 Ford Fairlane Base: Around $16,391 in good condition.
- 1969 Ford Fairlane Base: Around $8,478 in good condition.
How many 1959 Ford Fairlanes were produced?
Approximately 1,082,000 Ford Fairlanes were produced in 1959, with the exact number varying by specific model and body style. The Fairlane 500 Galaxie Skyliner model had a specific production run of 12,915 units.
- 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner: 12,915 units
- Overall 1959 Ford Production: 1,082,000 units total across all models
How much is a 1959 Ford Fairlane worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $9,250 for a 1959 Ford Fairlane in good condition with average spec.
Is a Fairlane a good investment?
Yes, well-maintained models can appreciate in value, making it a solid investment for collectors.
