1968 Ford Custom 500
The '68 Ford Custom 500: a big, boxy cruiser! Solid, dependable, and a staple of the era. Its clean lines and understated style reflected a changing America. Think classic American muscle, but more family-friendly. A true workhorse, and a slice of '60s life on wheels.
Decode Classic VINs to Get Vehicle History Report and Build Sheet
A Dive into Classic Car Ownership and the 1968 Ford Custom 500
Ah, the allure of classic cars – isn't it something? For those with a passion for sleek lines and historical charm, the 1968 Ford Custom 500 is an undisputed icon, serving as a tribute to an era where simplicity met performance. Now, let me tell you, owning a classic car isn't just about having a vehicle; it's about embracing a narrative of automotive history, style, and culture. Let's chat about some famous figures who resonate with this sentiment and have been seen behind the wheel of timeless beauties like the Ford Custom 500.
1968 Ford Custom 500 Models:
Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.
How Much is Ford Custom 500 Worth?
Original MSRP :$2,741.00
Outstanding
Clean
Average
Rough
1968 Ford Custom 500 Specs
Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?
Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.
Accident Records- Theft Records
- Loan & Lien Information
- Auction Information
- Salvage Information and more
History of the 1968 Ford Custom 500
The year 1968 marked a fascinating time in American automotive history. The Ford Custom 500 was introduced as a no-frills, full-size vehicle that catered to those who valued reliability and practicality. With its powerful 302 CI V8 engine, it became a favorite not just for families but also for police departments and taxi services – talk about versatile! This car wasn't just about getting from A to B; it was about doing so with a classic bit of Americana flair.
Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.
Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.
- Standard Specifications
- Original Base Price
- Standard & Optional Equipment
- Exterior & Interior Colors
- VIN ID & Location description
Famous Figures Who Own Classic Cars
Clint Eastwood
The man, the myth, the legend! Clint Eastwood isn't just synonymous with Hollywood; he's a known classic car enthusiast too. You might remember he drove an unmarked 1968 Ford Custom 500 in "Dirty Harry," representing the car's rugged, no-nonsense appeal. That was more than just a movie car. It symbolized a gritty yet sophisticated American spirit.
Jay Leno
Comedian and former late-night show host Jay Leno's car collection is known globally. With hundreds of cars and motorcycles, Leno doesn't just acquire vehicles; he celebrates their history. Among these treasures, you're bound to find some fantastic Fords that pay homage to eras gone by, like the Custom 500, a testament to his appreciation for vintage ingenuity and craftsmanship.
Jerry Seinfeld
Did you know Jerry Seinfeld is not only a comedian but also a Porsche aficionado? However, his affection for classic cars isn't limited to just one brand. His collection features a range of vehicles, each with its own story, much like the Ford Custom 500, celebrated for its functional design.
Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren, king of the fashion jungle, has a taste for the classics, not only in garments but in garages too. His collection is less about flash and more about timeless elegance and design – a philosophy perfectly encapsulated by the Ford Custom lineage.
Let's Talk Classic Car Market
The value of classic cars like the 1968 Ford Custom 500 varies greatly depending on condition, provenance, and market forces. Recent sales have shown prices between $4,000 to $6,000. These fluctuations capture the importance of understanding a car's past to gauge its present worth. Speaking of which, checking a vehicle's VIN can give you a peek into its story, from accident records to requisition by law enforcement. For instance, a can be your gateway to all this rich history.
If you're curious about your pre-1981 classic and what secrets it might hold, a is your next best friend – unlocking everything from its original engine type to more trivial (but oh-so-satisfying) details.
The Cultural Impact of the Ford Custom 500
The Ford Custom 500 is more than just metal and rubber; it's a slice of cultural history. Its silhouette graced numerous films and TV shows, not just as a backdrop but often as a character in its own right – reinforcing the mystique of mid-20th-century Americana. It's in these portrayals that we see the lasting impact of cars on our daily lives and media.
Classic Car Documentation
When dealing with classics, documentation is everything. Whether buying, selling, or simply appreciating from afar, knowing a car's background adds layers to its intrinsic value. Tools like the and the fill these gaps by revealing everything from auction bids to its very first assembly line details. And if you've got that quirky seven-digit VIN? Well, a is where you could turn for answers.
Interested in the nitty-gritty of how your classic beast rolled out of the factory? A can offer insight into every nut and bolt, firing up the imaginations of restorers and history buffs alike.
Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?
Considering entering the beautiful, chaotic world of classic car transactions? Let me share a tip: always insist on the vehicle history report and factory build sheet. These documents are your best allies, ensuring what you're buying or selling is both genuine and accounted for. Here's what to look for:
Accident Records
Theft Records
Loan & Lien Information
Auction Information
Salvage Information and more
Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the scene, these reports can save a lot of headaches down the road. Classic Decoders can be handy for this exploration into your classic vehicle's past.
So, what do you think? Will you be joining the ranks of these famous figures, wheels in hand and history in the rearview? It's not just about cars – it's about preserving a piece of history, a statement on wheels, sturdy and timeless.
Classic Car VIN Lookup App |Now available on both Android and iOS!
At Classic Decoder, we believe that developing a mobile app is a great way to extend our classic car data solution hub to as many users as possible across the globe. Our app is built with users and precision in mind. It holds the key to unlocking the history and details of any retro car at your fingertips. It also comes with fascinating and user-friendly features that make it stand out from other mobile apps designed for this purpose.
The Classic Decoder app lets you decode and lookup any classic VIN in a flash. Access accurate vehicle information and history, make an informed decision faster, and buy and trade in classic cars with confidence.
Download The Classic Decoder App now.
Some unique features include:
- Support all classic VIN lengths from 5 to 13 digits
- Support classic cars produced from 1910 – 1980
- Online Garage features – to add and manage your vehicles
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Easy onboarding for first-time users
Explore Ford Custom 500 from Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
The '68 Custom 500, well, it's a real looker! You'll instantly recognize its boxy, kinda squared-off styling; it's a classic example of its era. Think of it as the more understated cousin of the Galaxie, you know? It had that long hood, short deck look that was so popular back then. Key features include its distinctive grille, the wraparound taillights—absolutely iconic—and those cool chrome bumpers. Depending on the trim level, you might even find some fancy wheel covers. But honestly, the overall shape is what really sets it apart; it's a real head-turner, even today.
Ah, the heart of the beast! The '68 Custom 500 offered a pretty decent selection of engines. You could get anything from a relatively tame small-block V8, perfect for everyday cruising, to a seriously powerful big-block. Think of it like choosing your pizza toppings—you have choices! The most common were probably the 289 cubic inch and the 302; those were pretty reliable workhorses. But, if you were feeling frisky, you could opt for a 390 or even a 428 Cobra Jet – now those are powerhouses! So yeah, it really depended on what you were looking for in a car.
Compared to modern cars, well, let's just say it's a different ballgame entirely. It's not going to win any races against a Tesla, that's for sure. (Though, in its day, it was likely quite peppy, depending on that engine choice.) You won’t find all that fancy electronics. Think of it this way: it’s pure, unadulterated driving, where you're much more connected to the car itself. It’s a bit more hands-on and less about all the computer controls. Its handling is, shall we say, classic? It’s a big car, so it handles accordingly. But, that's part of its charm, wouldn't you agree? It's a relaxed, unhurried driving experience; it’s about enjoying the journey, not just getting to the destination super quickly.
Like any classic car, expect some quirks. These aren't necessarily deal-breakers, mind you, but potential issues to be aware of. Electrical gremlins are, sadly, pretty common; those old wires can get finicky after all these years. The braking system might need some attention, maybe a rebuild or something. And, naturally, rust is an ever-present threat, particularly if it wasn't stored properly. You'll probably want to budget for routine maintenance too; things wear out, you know? But hey, that's part of the fun—tinkering with the old girl. It's a labor of love, really.
This is tricky because values fluctuate so wildly! Condition is everything; a pristine, fully restored example will fetch a significantly higher price than a rusty project car. Location also matters, and how many similar models are on the market. Think of it like real estate: location, location, location! Online resources like Hagerty and ClassicCars.com can give you some idea, but the best way to know is to check recent sales data and talk to classic car specialists. Don't hesitate to get a professional appraisal—it's an investment you won't regret.