Introduced in 1950, the Country Squire was primarily sold as a wagon version of various full-size Ford models. It was based on iconic vehicles like the Crestline, Fairlane, Galaxy, and LTD. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the Country Squire gained popularity and continued to be produced until late 1990. Its decline began with the emergence of Chrysler minivans, prompting Ford’s response with the Aerostar.
Over a span of 41 years, Ford manufactured approximately 1.85 million Country Squire wagons. While this may seem like a small number compared to popular sedans of the past, it is still a respectable figure for a grocery-getter. However, these long-roofed vehicles are now a rare sight on public roads, with many of them deteriorating in junkyards or barns.
Although it is disheartening to witness the fate of classics that lack significant value, it is always exciting to see a dilapidated Country Squire being saved from the scrapyard. One such example is a 1969 version that recently received a second chance at life after more than four decades.
Rescued by “Rusty Nuts Garage” on YouTube, this particular wagon had not been on the road since 1983. That means it spent an astonishing 41 years out of commission until 2024. Despite the lengthy period of neglect, the Country Squire miraculously managed to survive the junkyard in relatively good condition.
While it does exhibit a fair amount of rust and mechanical issues, it is in better shape compared to most classics that have endured years of exposure to the elements. Surprisingly, this scrapyard find is also quite complete, retaining essential components that are often stripped for parts, including the engine.
Speaking of the engine, this wagon still houses its original powerplant. And that’s not all – it is a numbers-matching unit. But wait, there’s more. This particular Country Squire was equipped with a four-barrel 429-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) V8 engine, which was the range-topping option at the time and a short-lived high-compression gem for the Country Squire.
Part of Ford’s renowned 385-series engine lineup, the 429 V8 made its debut in the Thunderbird in 1968 before finding its way into the full-size and intermediate Ford/Mercury lineup the following year. The Country Squire was offered with two versions of this engine, with the four-barrel variant boasting 360 horsepower and 480 pound-feet (651 Nm) of torque when new.
Although detailed records are unavailable, enthusiasts agree that this particular wagon is not as common as those equipped with the 390-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) FE V8. Regardless of its rarity, the fact that the 429 engine in this Country Squire is intact and running is truly remarkable.
In total, if the prospective buyer does not intend to refurbish the vehicle (which would not be financially sensible), the 429 V8 engine could be preserved for another, more precious vintage car from that time period. Such as a Torino or a Mercury Cyclone. Until that occurs, you can witness its revival in the video provided below.