Ford Starliner

Infobox Automobile


name=Ford Starliner
manufacturer=Ford Motor Company
production=1960-1961
successor=Ford Galaxie 500
class=Fullsize
body_style=2-door coupe
aka=
related=
similar=The Starliner was the sporty fastback version of the flagship Galaxie line of fullsize Fords. Produced in 1960 and 1961 if offered a great platform for Nascar teams to build their race cars.They were produced in limited numbers and due to their racing applications few survivors exist today.

It shares the name with the 1952-1954 Studebaker Starliner and the Lockheed L-1649A airplane. Many might think that Ford copied Studebaker in naming the car, this however is not completely true as Ford had been using the "liner" moniker on many of its vehicles since 1954 (Crestline, Customline, Skyliner, Sunliner etc..).

Characterized by their thin roof pillars, fastback styling and slippery aerodynamics, they symbolized the best of 1960s jet age design. While the '60 & '61 body styles share only their roof lines they did share the same overall styling concept.

The base engine in 1960 & 1961 was the aging 292 CID Y-block V-8, with the optional 352 motor that was originally introduced in 1958. In 1961 Ford engineers answered the cry for more power offering the new Thunderbird 390 cubic-inch motor in 3 versions with the top line offering in 375 horsepower. There was also a dealer option for a 6V-401 HP that came with a three-2 barrel manifold and carb setup in the trunk to be installed by the dealer or the buyer.

In 1962 the Galaxie 500 ( and 500 XL) replaced the Starliner as the top offering. Ford initially offered a "Starlift" removable slant back, but the car was dropped after one race.

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