Last updated on September 18, 2024
In the automotive world, sleeper is the term used for a fast car that looks like a slow car. Generally, sleepers are under powered economy cars or family sedans with modifications that add horsepower. Every once in a while, you come across a sleeper built by the factory. This Galaxie checks all of the boxes, it is a factory-built big block with a four-speed wrapped in a full-sized four-door body.
The Galaxie was Ford’s full-sized offering from 1958 to 1974. The car was redesigned for 1969 which would be the last major upgrade to the chassis although a major restyling arrived for 1971.
Powered is courtesy of a 429 cubic inch Thunderjet version of the Ford “Lima” engine, also known as the 385. Lima refers to the Ford plant in Ohio where the engines were built. The engines were available in 370, 429, and 460 cubic inch versions. 385 refers to the stroke of the 460 version. The 360 hp Thinderjet used a single four barrel carberator and dual exhaust.
The Galaxie originally had a black cloth interior but it was changed to a red vinyl. This was probably a wise move since the car doesn’t have air conditioning. The underdash eight track was available in a number of models.
Factory equipment included a Ford Toploader four speed. The transmission was originally known as the Ford design four speed. Later manufacturing was moved to Mexico where it was designate the Tremec T-170.
A full sized big block four speed four door sedan is the ultimate sleeper. The winning bidder will be able to have big fun playing Gator McKlusky (ok, the year and model are off but it is close enough).
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