What motor is in a Fairlane 500?
The Fairlane 500 has appeared across several generations, and its engine varied by year and option. There isn’t a single fixed motor for all Fairlane 500s; most versions used Ford V8 powertrains, with the exact displacement and family changing over time.
Engine options across generations
Below is a broad overview of how engine options typically appeared in Fairlane 500 models, noting that exact specs vary by year and market. The following bullets describe the general V8-centric powertrains associated with the model over its history.
- Most Fairlane 500s were powered by Ford V8 engines from the era’s mainstream lineup; inline-six options were more commonly found in other trim levels rather than the 500.
- Displacements commonly associated with mid-century and 1960s Fairlane 500s fall in the small-to-mid block V8 range, often described in the 260–289 cubic inch category depending on year and option package.
- In certain years, higher-performance or larger-displacement V8 options could be added through optional packages or performance catalogs, making engine choices vary by individual car.
Keep in mind that precise engine availability is tied to model year, market, and the specific option package. The most reliable way to confirm an exact motor is to check the car’s engine code and build documentation.
How to confirm the engine in your Fairlane 500
To identify the exact motor in a specific Fairlane 500 you own or are researching, use the following verification steps. These help map the physical engine to the factory specification for that vehicle.
- Find the engine code stamped on the engine block itself, often near the front or side of the block; note the code for comparison.
- Read the data plate or VIN-related tag on the dash or driver’s door jamb to locate the factory engine option listed for that car’s year and trim.
- Cross-check the engine code and VIN with Ford’s historical catalogs or reputable online databases that map codes to engine family and displacement.
- Consult the vehicle’s original build sheet or a restoration guide specific to the Fairlane 500 family for year-by-year engine availability.
With the engine identified, you’ll know the exact displacement and V8 family powering that particular Fairlane 500, enabling accurate maintenance, parts sourcing, and restoration decisions.
Summary
The Ford Fairlane 500 does not have a single universal engine; it historically relied on Ford V8 powertrains, with variations in displacement and performance across different years and trim packages. To determine the precise motor for a given Fairlane 500, verify the engine code, consult the VIN/build data, and reference year-specific Ford documentation or trusted restoration resources.
How much is a 1967 Ford Fairlane 500 worth?
A 1967 Ford Fairlane 500's value ranges widely based on its condition, from low-end examples for around $4,750$ 4 comma 750$4,750 to high-end, rare models potentially reaching over $132,000$ 132 comma 000$132,000. A good condition Fairlane 500 with average specifications typically has a value of approximately $23,622$ 23 comma 622$23,622.
Value factors
- Condition: The most significant factor, with excellent examples being worth much more than those needing extensive work.
- Rarity and Desirability: Models like the high-performance R-code 500 XL are exceptionally valuable. A specific 1967 500 XL with a 427 engine sold for $200,000$ 200 comma 000$200,000.
- Mileage and History: Lower mileage and a clean history, including accident history and title problems, contribute to a higher value.
- Modifications: Aftermarket modifications can affect value, though well-executed performance upgrades can increase desirability for some buyers.
Sample values
- Lowest auction price: $4,750$ 4 comma 750$4,750 for a car needing extensive work.
- Average price (good condition): Around $23,622$ 23 comma 622$23,622.
- Highest auction price: $132,000$ 132 comma 000$132,000 for a rare, well-maintained example.
- Specific high-value sale: A factory R-code 1967 500 XL sold for $200,000$ 200 comma 000$200,000.
What engine is in a Ford Fairlane 500?
302 CID V8
Basic models featured the 302 CID V8 and three-speed manual transmission as standard.
Is a 1965 Ford Fairlane 500 rare?
A new Fairlane look appeared for 1965, as the car shared heavily sculpted sheetmetal with that year's Mercury Comet. Rectangular tail lamps replaced formerly round units. The pleasingly styled 1962-65 Fairlane 500s are scarce, but generally quite affordable today—Thunderbolts excluded!
What kind of engine does a Ford 500 have?
3.0L Duratec V6 engine
The Five Hundred used a 203 hp 3.0L Duratec V6 engine, originally developed with Porsche, its head using the Cosworth casting method.
