What transmission came in a 1964 Ford Fairlane?
The 1964 Ford Fairlane primarily offered two transmission paths: the three-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic and a standard three-speed manual. Most buyers chose the automatic, but a manual transmission was available for those who preferred a hands-on driving experience.
Background: Ford's transmission lineup in 1964
During the early 1960s, Ford was transitioning its lineup to a modern automatic family while still offering manual options on many models. The Fairlane, as a mid-size Ford, could be equipped with either a manual transmission or an automatic, depending on the buyer’s preference and the specific trim level.
Transmission options for the 1964 Fairlane
Below are the primary transmission options historically offered with the 1964 Fairlane:
- Cruise-O-Matic 3-speed automatic transmission
- 3-speed manual transmission (floor- or column-shift configuration, depending on model and trim)
Concluding: In practice, Ford's Cruise-O-Matic automatic was the more common choice for the 1964 Fairlane, while manual transmissions were typically selected for more economical or driver-controlled trims.
Additional details
For collectors or restorers, the exact specification can vary by body style, engine choice, and production date, so checking the data plate or build sheet is recommended to confirm the original transmission for a specific car.
Summary
Summary: The 1964 Ford Fairlane offered a three-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic as the primary automatic option, with a standard three-speed manual as an alternative. This reflects Ford’s mid-1960s shift toward automatic transmissions while still providing manual choices for buyers who preferred direct mechanical control.
