1966 Ford Fairlane

Well, the '66 Fairlane's got a pretty distinctive look; it's hard to miss, you know? Think sleek, kinda sporty lines—a real departure from some of the boxier designs of earlier years. It boasted a longer wheelbase than its predecessors, giving it that graceful, stretched-out appearance. Plus, depending on the trim level, you might find things like unique badging, specific grille designs, and different wheel covers. It was a pretty popular model that year, so you'll see plenty of variation, but those are some of the key things to keep an eye out for. You know, it's like comparing apples and oranges sometimes with these classic cars; no two are truly alike.

The '66 Fairlane offered a pretty darn wide range of engines, enough to satisfy pretty much anyone. From the fairly modest straight six to a real powerhouse, the mighty 427 cubic inch V8 (available in some models, of course), there was something for everyone's taste and budget. There were also several V8s in between those extremes, ranging from around 289 to 390 cubic inches. Think of it like a candy store for car enthusiasts back then; you could really spec the car to your heart's content – so many different options were available! Choosing the right engine for your needs was a seriously big decision back in the day.

This depended heavily on the engine and the trim level, of course. You could find everything from a three-speed manual on the lower-end models, which was pretty standard back then for everyday driving, to more sophisticated automatic transmissions like the Cruise-O-Matic, which was definitely a luxury item at the time. The three-on-the-tree manual was quite common; but the automatic transmissions were definitely becoming more popular in those years, especially with the bigger engines. It’s sort of like choosing between a standard and an automatic today — some people just prefer one over the other, you know?

Ah, that's a complex question, and it really depends on the condition and specific features of the car. Generally speaking, Fairlanes are considered relatively affordable classics compared to some of their higher-profile contemporaries, like a Mustang or a Corvette, especially in good condition. This often depends on the model's specifics and its rarity. However, a well-preserved, low-mileage Fairlane, particularly a GT model or one with a desirable engine combination, can certainly fetch a pretty good price, which is why people tend to restore them; you could be surprised at how much value it could bring!

Like any classic car of that age, there are potential issues to consider. Rust is a common enemy, especially in areas prone to harsh winters; this makes sense, given that the car has been around for quite some time. The electrical systems can sometimes be finicky, and brake systems should be thoroughly inspected, as parts may be hard to find these days. Keep in mind that restoring these cars requires time, effort, and money, but a properly maintained 1966 Fairlane is a really rewarding car to own; It's like a wonderful old friend, only needing a bit of TLC.