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1961 Ford Fairlane

The '61 Ford Fairlane: a stylish cruiser! Its sleek lines and sharp tailfins were instantly iconic, reflecting the optimism of the early 60s. A popular choice, it cemented Ford's place in American car culture, offering various body styles, from sedans to sporty convertibles. Think cool, classic American muscle – but slightly tamer.

1961 Ford Fairlane: A Timeless Classic

Welcome to an exploration of the 1961 Ford Fairlane—an iconic piece of American automotive history. This classic car, beloved by enthusiasts and collectors alike, isn't just a symbol of its era, blending style, affordability, and performance. Whether you're reminiscing about the past or considering adding a classic to your collection, the Fairlane represents a unique chapter in car culture.

Photo of a 1961 Ford Fairlane

1961 Ford Fairlane Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Ford Fairlane Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,108.00

Outstanding

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$24,700

Clean

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$17,900

Average

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$12,500*

Rough

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$6,400

1961 Ford Fairlane Specs

Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: 58E
Length: 209.9 inches
Width: 79.9 inches
Height: 57 inches
Wheelbase: 119 inches
Type: Inline, Valve-in-head, Single downdraft, Unknown at time of publication
Displacement: 223.5 cu. in.
Cylinders: 6
Bore And Stroke: 3 5/8 & 3 39/64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.4 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: 8.9 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 135@4000
Horsepower Rated: 31.54
Torque: 200@2000
Main Bearings: 4
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Block Material: Cast Iron
Engine Number Location: Plate on left front door pillar post.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Holley
Type:
3 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
9.5 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
3.20
Gear Ratios Second:
1.86
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.88
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.56 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Hotchkiss
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Tire Size: 7.5 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 20 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 1a32V100001
Total Digits:11
Digits 1:Model year
Digits 2:Assembly plant
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6-11:Production number
Corinthian White, Raven Black, Starlight Blue, Mint Green, Laurel Green, Garden Turquoise, Aquamarine, Montecarlo Red, Algiers Bronze, Chesapeake Blue, Cambridge Blue, Desert Gold, Silver Gray, All colors may not be available in all models.
Fordor Sedan: Opt
Fordomatic Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Pushbutton Radio: Opt

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History of 1961 Ford Fairlane

The 1961 Ford Fairlane sprang to life during an exciting period—when the automotive world was all about innovation and style. This second-generation Fairlane was born to meet a burgeoning demand for mid-sized cars with sleek designs and advanced features. Ford's goal? To pair value with quality, and man, did it deliver.

You know, Ford didn't just pull this off alone. They leveraged the success from the Falcon model which had dominated sales, giving the Fairlane a head start. All this effort wasn't in vain as nearly 300,000 units were sold during its production.

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Detailed Specifications

The Fairlane offered a variety of engines, including the popular V8 for those wanting a bit of zest. Its modern appointments and contemporary exterior design reflected the preferences of the times—making it a trendsetter in the early 60s. Sure, it wasn't built for setting speed records, but it was more than a match for its competitors on the drag strip.

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Famous Figures Who Own the 1961 Ford Fairlane

Frank Sinatra

Ah, Ol' Blue Eyes himself! Frank Sinatra's love for the 1961 Ford Fairlane added glamour to its reputation. Associating a car with an icon like Sinatra isn't just about adding a celebrity name for glitz; it's about the stories, the journeys, and the history these vehicles carry.

Other Icons

Though Sinatra steals the spotlight, there are other luminaries whose passion for the Fairlane adds to its grandeur. Each owner, a thread, weaves a tapestry rich with heritage and nostalgia, anchoring the Fairlane in the sands of time.

Price Records

If you're wondering about the financial side of things, here's the scoop: prices range from an accessible $3,300 to an impressive $28,600. These prices aren't just numbers—they tell tales of condition, rarity, and the ever-changing dance of market demand.

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Speed Records

The Fairlane might not have set the fastest lap, but it sure made its presence felt in motorsport. The Thunderbolt variant, in particular, left a lasting mark on drag racing, highlighting the car's potential for performance.

Fun Facts about the 1961 Ford Fairlane

Did you know the Fairlane carved a niche in popular culture too? It wasn't just about the car but the freedom and rebellion it symbolized, often finding its place in TV shows and movies that captured the spirit of the era.

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Navigating the waters of classic car buying or selling can be tricky. That's why having detailed information through a comprehensive vehicle history report and build sheet is crucial. They unravel the mystery behind the metal and can safeguard your investment. Here are several nuggets of info you don't want to miss:

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Explore Ford Fairlane from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '61 Fairlane? It's a real head-turner, you know? Think sleek, sporty lines; that's the big thing. You'll notice the distinctive, kinda low-slung profile, and those iconic tailfins – they're not as huge as some of the later models, but they're definitely there, adding to its cool factor. The grille? Sharp, clean design. And depending on the trim level, you might see some seriously snazzy chrome details. It's a car that just oozes that early '60s style; you can't miss it, really. Overall, it's a pretty memorable design.

Okay, so under the hood, you had quite a few choices. The most common was the trusty inline six-cylinder engine; a workhorse, really. But if you wanted some extra oomph, there were also V8 options available, offering a bit more pep in your step, shall we say. The V8s varied in horsepower, too; some were pretty potent for their time. It's a bit like picking your coffee – do you want something smooth and reliable, or something with a bit more kick? You had that choice back then, too.

Compared to other cars of the era? It held its own, pretty well, actually. The handling was decent for the time, not super sporty, but not a boat either. Acceleration, well, that depended heavily on the engine you chose. The V8s gave it some good get-up-and-go, while the six was more… economical. Think of it like this: the six is a reliable commuter; the V8 is your weekend cruiser. It all boils down to what you prioritize.

Like any classic car, there are potential issues, of course. The electrical system can sometimes be a bit temperamental – things like the wiring can get brittle with age. The brakes might need some attention; you know, these are older cars – they need a bit of TLC. And the carburetor? Sometimes it needs a bit of coaxing. It's not uncommon, though; it's part of owning a classic. Think of it as a fun project; there’s a certain satisfaction in keeping these beauties on the road.

Ah, the million-dollar question! The value really depends on a lot of things; condition is key. A pristine, fully restored model will fetch a considerably higher price than one needing some love, you know. Mileage, options, and even the color can influence the price. It's best to check online resources and classic car valuation guides for a decent estimate. It's a bit like buying a house – location, location, location! And in this case, condition is king.

Finding parts for a classic can sometimes be a bit of a treasure hunt; it's part of the fun! There are specialized classic car parts suppliers; some online, some brick-and-mortar. Online forums and clubs dedicated to the Fairlane can be excellent resources. Fellow enthusiasts are a wealth of knowledge and can point you in the right direction, maybe even to some rare parts. It's a great community, so get involved!