What size engine is in a 1958 Ford Fairlane?
The 1958 Ford Fairlane lineup did not use a single engine size. Buyers could choose from several inline-six and V8 options, with the most common configurations centering around a 223 cubic inch inline-six and V8s in the 292–352 cubic inch range as part of Ford’s expanding engine family.
Overview of engine options
The following list highlights the typical engine displacements offered to Fairlane customers in 1958. Exact sizes depended on model, trim, and factory options, so individual cars could vary.
- Inline-six option: approximately 223 cubic inches (about 3.7 liters)
- V8 options (Y-block/Ford V8 lineage): around 292 cubic inches (about 4.8 liters)
- Additional V8 options within the era’s FE-family range: 312, 332, and 352 cubic inches (roughly 5.1–5.8 liters)
In practice, a Fairlane could be equipped with a modest six-cylinder engine for base models or a range of V8 engines for higher trims, with the larger displacements typically reserved for the more performance-oriented Fairlane 500 variants.
Historical context and impact
The 1958 model year was notable for Ford’s ongoing expansion of its V8 lineup, as the company leaned on larger-displacement V8s to boost performance and marketing appeal. The introduction and growth of the FE-family engines around this period helped shape Ford’s powertrains through the early 1960s, influencing not only the Fairlane but Ford’s broader lineup as well.
For enthusiasts tracing a specific car, the exact engine size can be confirmed through the vehicle’s VIN and engine stamping or by checking original sales documentation. This is particularly important for surviving examples, given the variety of engine options offered across trims like the base Fairlane and the higher-spec Fairlane 500.
How to identify the engine size on a 1958 Fairlane
To determine the specific displacement, look for the engine code stamped on the engine block, check the firewall data plate, or reference the vehicle’s original window sticker and build sheet. Cross-referencing these details with Ford’s 1958 option guides can confirm whether a given Fairlane was fitted with a 223 inline-six or a 292–352 cubic inch V8.
Summary
In short, a 1958 Ford Fairlane did not have a single engine size. Most cars offered a 223-cu-in inline-six or a choice of V8s spanning roughly 292–352 cubic inches, with higher-performance trims more likely to feature the larger displacements. The exact size depended on the model and options chosen at purchase, reflecting Ford’s broader strategy of offering multiple powertrains within the Fairlane line.
