In 1959, Ford introduced the Galaxie as a top-tier full-size model positioned above the Fairlane 500. Initially, the Galaxie was only available in the two-door and four-door hardtop body styles. The following year, Ford unveiled a new model with a fastback design, naming it the Starliner and positioning it above the Galaxie.
However, unlike the Galaxie, which continued production until 1974, the Starliner had a short lifespan and was discontinued after just two years. Consequently, it remains one of the lesser-known Fords from the 1960s. Nevertheless, in my opinion, it is a truly special car that deserves significant appreciation.
What sets it apart? Well, the Starliner boasted a sleekness unparalleled by any other Ford model of the time. This was primarily due to its fastback-style roof, which imparted a distinctly aerodynamic and sporty appearance. As a result, it became a popular choice among NASCAR teams.
Although Ford lost the championship to Chevrolet in 1960, the Starliner aided the company in securing 15 victories. When production of the Starliner ceased in 1961, NASCAR teams began to complain that the Galaxie’s boxy roof hindered its speed and handling in high-speed traffic.
To address these aerodynamic issues, Ford introduced the Sports Hardtop model halfway through the 1963 model year. This modification proved successful, and Ford won the NASCAR series that year. Overall, one could argue that the Starliner played a pivotal role in Ford’s triumphant return to the oval circuit after a five-year hiatus.
Between 1960 and 1961, Ford produced a total of 98,310 Starliners, making this fastback model relatively common. However, due to many being used for racing, crashing, or left abandoned in scrapyards, running and drivable Starliners are now a rare sight in 2024. Consequently, I always feel a sense of excitement whenever I come across one of these two-door hardtops at car shows.
The 1960 version showcased here is one of nearly 69,000 units manufactured that year and one of the few that still roam the streets today. It has also managed to survive over the years. Although it now sports replacement wheels and refreshed paint, it still bears battle scars and remains mostly true to its original factory specifications.
Furthermore, it is finished in a color that was available from the factory. In 1960, yellow was one of the thirteen color options. This particular Starliner is painted in a shade called Yosemite Yellow, complemented by a white roof. Not only does this color suit the Starliner’s aesthetic, but it is also a hue that has become less common in recent years.
Unfortunately, we do not have a glimpse under the hood, leaving the powerplant a mystery. However, the 1960 Starliner came standard with a 223-cubic-inch (3.7-liter) inline-six engine that year. Optional engines included the 292-cubic-inch (4.8-liter) Y-block and the 352-cubic-inch (5.8-liter) Thunderbird. These engines offered power outputs ranging from 185 to 360 horsepower, respectively.
According to the Source autoevolution.com