What models did Ford make in 1964?
Ford's 1964 lineup included a historic new entrant alongside its established models: the Mustang joined the market, while the rest of Ford's range carried forward with updates to compact, mid-size, and full-size lines. The year is widely remembered as the launchpad for a new era in Ford’s branding and product strategy.
The year 1964 saw Ford balance its existing families—compact, mid-size, and full-size—with a bold leap into performance-oriented styling and affordable sportiness. The company introduced a model that would redefine its image, while continuing to offer familiar options like the Falcon, Fairlane, Galaxie, Thunderbird, Econoline vans, and Ranchero pickups. In short, 1964 was the year Ford reimagined what its cars could be while keeping its broad lineup intact.
Ford's 1964 model lineup
Below is a concise list of Ford passenger-car and light-commercial models that were in production in 1964, including one that would become a cultural touchstone and shape Ford's strategy for years to come.
- Mustang — a groundbreaking new entry in 1964 that would become the iconic 1965-model-year pony car and redefine Ford’s market appeal.
- Falcon — Ford's compact family, carrying forward with updates and multiple body styles as the brand's entry in the small-car segment.
- Fairlane — a mid-size to full-size family sedan line that continued as part of Ford's mainstream lineup.
- Galaxie 500 — the top-trim full-size model that represented Ford's flagship passenger-car offering of the era.
- Thunderbird — Ford's personal-luxury two-door, continuing its long-running niche within the lineup.
- Econoline — Ford’s first-generation full-size van, used for both cargo and passenger configurations and popular in commercial fleets.
- Ranchero — a car-based pickup that blended car styling with a pickup bed, continuing to appeal to buyers seeking versatility.
These models illustrate how Ford maintained a broad, versatile lineup in 1964 while introducing a car that would become a cultural touchstone. The Mustang’s arrival stood out as a strategic pivot toward more affordable performance, while the other lines kept Ford's traditional strengths in family sedans, full-size comfort, and practical utility.
Mustang’s launch and enduring impact
On April 17, 1964, Ford unveiled the Mustang to the world, famously at the New York World's Fair. The car was positioned to attract younger buyers with a compelling blend of style, affordability, and customization options. Although marketed as a 1965 model year, the Mustang began production in 1964 and quickly captured public imagination, launching a new class of American cars and reshaping Ford’s product strategy for years to come.
Summary
In 1964 Ford delivered a landmark introduction with the Mustang while sustaining its broader lineup—Falcon, Fairlane, Galaxie 500, Thunderbird, Econoline, and Ranchero. The year combined an ambitious new entry with continued strength in conventional categories, marking a turning point that would influence Ford’s designs and marketing for the rest of the decade.
What small car did Ford make in the 60s?
1960 Ford Falcon
1960 Ford Falcon Catalog, "Easiest Car in the World to Own"
Like Chrysler and General Motors, Ford entered the small car market in the 1960 model year. The company's six-cylinder Falcon was a hit, selling 435,676 units in its first year -- more than either of Ford's crosstown rivals.
What car was popular in 1964?
Any year that brought us the Ford Mustang, Pontiac GTO, Porsche 911, and Sunbeam Tiger is sure to be a classic. Yet, 1964 offered even more variety and interest than even these performance icons, so let's delve into this landmark year and see what else there is for classic car fans.
What cars did Ford make in 1964?
Select a 1964 Ford Model
- 1964 CORTINA MARK I.
- 1964 Country Sedan.
- 1964 Country Squire.
- 1964 Custom.
- 1964 Custom 500.
- 1964 E100.
- 1964 F100.
- 1964 F250.
Which Ford car was launched in 1964?
The Mustang's
The Mustang's grand debut came on April 14, 1964 for the press and April 17, 1964 for the general public. The official unveiling took place at the largest exhibit at the New York World's Fair, the Ford Pavilion also known as the Wonder Rotunda.
