When reminiscing about Ford cars from the early 1960s, thoughts often gravitate towards the Galaxie and Fairlane. The Falcon, debuting in 1959, also holds a place in our memories. However, one gem that often escapes our thoughts is the Starliner.
Introduced in 1960, the Starliner's existence was fleeting, discontinued after just two model years in 1961. Despite its short stint in showrooms, the Starliner stands out as a distinctive and noteworthy vehicle.
Distinguished by its fastback-style roof with thin pillars, the Starliner exuded a sleekness surpassing the regular Galaxie. This design choice made it a favorite among NASCAR teams, influencing Ford to later introduce a similar Sports Hardtop version of the Galaxie in 1963.
Premium Status in the Lineup
Positioned at the zenith of the Galaxie lineup alongside the Sunliner convertible, the Starliner boasted premium appointments and unique exterior trim, solidifying its status as a standout model.
The Starliner exclusively offered V8 powerplants. The base engine, a 292-cubic-inch "Y-block" V8, produced 185 horsepower. Options included the 352-cubic-inch "Thunderbird" V8, ranging from 235 to 300 horsepower. In 1960, a Hi-Po version with 360 horsepower emerged, while 1961 saw the introduction of the 390-cubic-inch Thunderbird V8 with 375 horses.
Sales Figures and Unfortunate Demise
In 1960, the Starliner sold 68,641 units, comprising 23% of the total Galaxie production. By 1961, only 29,669 Starliners were sold before its discontinuation. Notably, Ford's decision to simplify the lineup led to the replacement of the Starliner with the Galaxie 500 in 1962, not due to slow sales.
Regrettably, many Starliners faced neglect over the years, with only a fraction of the nearly 100,000 units produced surviving into 2024. Most of those remaining are either in poor condition or relegated to junkyards and barns.
However, some Starliners are still being saved. Notably, a rare Hi-Po version emerged from storage in 2021, demonstrating that these vintage cars can be revived. This example serves as a testament to the resilience of the Starliner, even after spending 50 years hidden away.
Unearthing a Barn-Find Starliner
In 2021, a noteworthy discovery was made by "Speed Bump Garage," revealing a Starliner hidden in a barn for an astonishing 42 years. Although not a coveted Hi-Po model, this particular Starliner proved to be a one-owner car, adding to its historical significance.
Despite its four-decade hibernation, the barn-find Starliner was surprisingly well-preserved. While covered in dust and missing some trim, it managed to avoid significant rust issues, offering hope for potential restoration.
The Revival Effort
When it was parked, the Starliner's 292-cubic-inch "Y-block" V8 was in working condition. However, decades without fuel had left it seized. The restoration journey involved considerable effort, with the engine presenting ongoing challenges. Nonetheless, the host successfully brought the Starliner back to life, marking a commendable start for a car that had sat dormant for more than 40 years.
The fate of this rediscovered Starliner remains uncertain. While its revival is a promising step, whether it will undergo a full restoration or simply return to the road in its current state remains to be seen.
# FAQs
**Q1: Why was the Starliner discontinued after just two model years?**
A: Ford opted to simplify its lineup and replaced the Starliner with the Galaxie 500 in 1962, a decision unrelated to slow sales.
**Q2: How many Starliners were sold in 1960 and 1961?**
A: In 1960, 68,641 Starliners were sold, constituting 23% of the total Galaxie production. By 1961, only 29,669 Starliners were sold.
**Q3: What engine options were available for the Starliner?**
A: The Starliner exclusively offered V8 powerplants. The base engine was a 292-cubic-inch "Y-block" V8, with options including the 352-cubic-inch "Thunderbird" V8 and the 390-cubic-inch Thunderbird V8.
**Q4: Are there still Starliners being discovered and revived today?**
A: Yes, some Starliners, like a rare Hi-Po version, have been discovered and revived, showcasing the enduring appeal of these vintage cars.
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