Fullsize Fastback: 1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL – SOLD!

June 22, 2023, Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we can now call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

June 8, 2023 Update – The seller lowered their asking price from $16,500 to $15,500 in their existing Craigslist ad.

American automobile makers in the 1960s provided many trim levels and options. This was done with a limited number of platforms. The idea was to lock consumers into their cars using a wide price structure tailored to the customer’s budget.

Ford was one of the originators of this concept, and its mid-1960s full-size lineup emphasized that. Ford released their full-size range in 1966.

This included the Custom, Custom 500, Galaxie, Galaxie 500, Galaxie 500XL, and the Galaxie 7-Litre. These cars were almost identical, with only small differences in trim and body size.

Jay Leno tells a funny story. He tricked his father into buying a 7-Liter Galaxie. This was something he did in the past. The reason for the prank was not revealed.

Additionally, Ford marketers of the period were emboldened to make up brand names to suit their needs. Ford chose to use the brand name “Galaxie” for its higher-trim level full-size offerings. This is a prime example of not using the correct spelling, “Galaxy.” To this day, some enthusiasts search for “Ford Galaxy for sale” rather than the correct-for-Ford “Ford Galaxie For Sale.”

Ford shoppers had the choice to order a model with slightly less power than the Galaxie 7-Litre. The models were the same body styles, regardless of brand name spelling. This model was just as sporty but offered lower fuel expenses was known as the Galaxie 500 and Galaxie 500XL.

When Ford shoppers didn’t want the fuel expense of the Galaxie 7-Litre, they could order a slightly lesser-powered model that was just as sporty.  One example from this period is this red 70K-mile 1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL for sale, last spotted in June 2023 on Craigslist in Santa Rosa, California.  While it features a still-stout 390 cubic inch V8, the original owner opted for bucket seats, a center console, and factory air conditioning.  Despite being a survivor-quality car, the seller notes a number of recent replacement parts and repairs aimed to get their 1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL sorted before its sale.

Last offered for $15,500 (the original ask was $16,500), Classic.com, the analytics and search engine for the collector car market, confirms the ask is slightly below the one-year rolling average of this guide’s summary for third-generation Ford Galaxies of all trim levels and body styles produced between 1965 and 1968.  Click the green dots on the graph. This will take you to each comparable car sold. This will help you evaluate the price of the Galaxie 500 for sale featured here.

As a second data point, the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask falls between this guide’s #3 “Good” estimate of $14,100 and its #2 “Very Good” appraisal of $19,400 before factoring adjustments for the powertrain and certain comfort and convenience options.

The 1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL was a full-size car produced by Ford Motor Company as part of the Galaxie lineup. It was introduced as a higher-trim variant of the standard Galaxie 500, offering additional luxury and performance features. The Galaxie 500XL was known for its sleek styling, powerful engines, and comfortable interior.

The 1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL had a distinctive and elegant appearance. It featured a long and wide body with clean lines and a prominent chrome-accented grille. The front end had quad headlights and a slightly protruding hood.

The car had a sculpted profile with a gently sloping roofline and smooth contours along the sides. The rear end showcased a horizontal chrome strip connecting the taillights, giving it a stylish touch.

The Galaxie 500XL offered a range of powerful engine options to suit different driving preferences. The standard engine was a 289 cubic-inch V8, delivering 200 horsepower.

Those seeking more power had two options. They could choose a 352 cubic-inch V8 with 220 horsepower or a 390 cubic-inch V8 with 315 horsepower. These engines provided ample performance and helped the Galaxie 500XL stand out in terms of power and acceleration.

Inside the 1966 Galaxie 500XL, luxury and comfort were key priorities. The cabin featured a spacious layout with plenty of room for passengers. The front seats were designed with individual bucket seats covered in premium upholstery, providing excellent support and comfort. The rear seats could accommodate three passengers comfortably.

The dashboard was well-designed. It featured a combination of analog gauges and clear controls. This enabled the driver to monitor the car’s performance easily. The steering wheel was stylish and offered a comfortable grip.

As a higher-trim model, the Galaxie 500XL came equipped with a range of features aimed at enhancing the driving experience. Some of the notable features included power steering, power brakes, and an automatic transmission.

Air conditioning was available as an option, ensuring a pleasant driving environment regardless of the weather.

The car had an AM/FM radio. This was a popular option in those days. People could listen to their favorite music while traveling.

Overall, the 1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL was a stylish and well-appointed full-size car. It combined luxurious features with powerful engine options, providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Its timeless design and strong performance capabilities have made it a sought-after classic car among enthusiasts and collectors.

The seller offers both a start-up and driving video of their 1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL for sale:

Overall, this 1966 Ford Galaxie for sale is a nicely optioned survivor car. The next caretaker has the choice of either enjoying the car as-is or taking it to the next level.

Which 390 cubic inch V8 did this example leave the factory with? That is the biggest question to answer. It is not clear what the horsepower rating is.

Are you serious about buying this Ford Galaxie 500 for sale? Start the conversation by using the seller’s contact information found in their Craigslist ad. When you connect, please remember to mention you saw their restored pickup featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

Show or go: What would you do with this survivor-quality 1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL for sale?  Please comment below and let us know!