Beschreibung
The first half of the 1960s marked the golden era of drag racing in the USA. The quarter-mile races organised by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) had never been so popular. More displacement, more power, more racing was the credo. The manufacturers from Detroit also got involved in a big way and were given their own racing classification, ‘FX’ (Factory Experimental), to compete in. The basic principle: to strip a compact production vehicle of all unnecessary weight and install the largest and most powerful engine in production. Thus began the test of strength between Ford, GM and Chrysler. After all, it was the time of ‘win on Sunday, sell on Monday’. In 1962/ 63, the Fairlane became more of a focus for Ford's drag racing programme, which had previously relied on the Galaxie. A brand-new 1963 Ford Fairlane was equipped with a 410 cui Mercury V8, which in turn made way for the new 427 shortly afterwards. In addition, the heating, radio, insulation material and other unnecessary components were removed. The iconic ‘teardrop’ bonnet made of GRP was fitted to accommodate the gigantic engine. In accordance with the NHRA regulations, there were 7-inch slicks on the rear axle.
In this car, Ford test driver Bill Humphrey completed the quarter-mile in 11 seconds on the Detroit Dragway. From then on, it was clear that the Fairlane was the new star at the party. The project was continued and the Fairlane ‘Tunderbolt’ officially appeared in model year 64. Only 127 of these cars with the 427 engine left the factory and are now extremely rare and highly priced collectors' vehicles. However, the prototype, Bill Humprey's car sponsored by Tasca Ford, was subsequently scrapped. Unfortunately, this was a common practice at the time.
This Fairlane 500 is the reincarnation of the Thunderbolt prototype. It was rebuilt based on Humphrey's car. The livery with sponsors and class designations have been faithfully reproduced. Bill Humphrey even signed the dashboard shortly before his death. The mechanics were completely overhauled between 2021 and 2024. Most recently, a completely rebuilt 351 Windsor V8 was installed. It is fuelled by an Eldelbrock High Rise intake manifold and a Holley 4-barrel carburettor. In addition, optimisations were made in the form of an electronic MSD ignition system, stainless steel manifolds with sidepipes, electric fuel pump and aluminium radiator with additional fan. The suspension and brakes have also been renewed. At the front, there was an upgrade to Wilwood disc brakes with 4-piston calipers and internally ventilated discs. The C4 3-speed automatic gearbox provides the power transmission. As with the original car, the radio, heating and insulation have been omitted. Just a body on Mikey Thompson slicks and the brute power of the Windsor V8. No frills. A folder with the documentation of the lovingly built car is available. The Ford has the 13. 20a customs document. A real eye-catcher in mint mechanical condition. Just turning the ignition key makes the earth tremble and you can't help but smile. Certainly a unique and exceptional car for those with a special taste. America's motorsport at its zenith.
* Trade-in possible*
