Resto mods spark plenty of controversy. The purists contend that classic cars should be left original while the “modists” counter that the updates make the cars drive and perform better while retaining original style and appearance.
The Pick of the Day is a good example of the resto mod ideal, an attractive 1964 Ford Falcon Sprint convertible with tasteful refinements that should make it a better car without losing its essence.
But first off, here is what the Aspil, Illinois, classic car dealer said about these cars in the ClassicCars.com listing: “Collectors today tend to recognize the Falcon Sprint for what it actually is: a compact muscle car.”
True, although that was the year that the Falcon-based Mustang arrived to steal the thunder. Like the 1964½ Mustang, the performance Falcons were powered by Ford’s 260 cid V8, which the following year grew into the well-known 289.
So while this sportiest version of the compact Falcon was born with a 260 V8, the one we see here has a later Ford V8 transplant, actually a “fresh 302 Cobra V8 fuel-injected engine,” the seller says, coupled with a highly desirable 5-speed manual transmission with a Hurst shifter. That’s a hot setup for this lightweight ragtop.
The handling also has been improved with a Mustang II front end with tubular control arms, which eliminate the shock towers, and rack-and-pinion steering. Inside, sporty upgrades include a wood-rimmed steering wheel and accessory gauges for water temperature and oil pressure, and a tachometer. The kinds of stuff a young street rodder might have done back in the day.
The seller describes the Falcon as having a very straight body with its bright-red paint job and shiny chrome. The car looks very clean in the multiple photos with the ad, including the classic red bucket-seat interior and the new-looking black convertible top. The American Racing wheels look correct, similar to those often seen on later Mustangs.
The asking price of $25,900 seems reasonable for this improved Falcon Sprint. Not a show queen (but what Falcon is?), the all-Ford resto mod treatment should make this a good driver for today’s roads and a desirable, envy-provoking entry for local car shows.
And the seller claims the Sprint is all ready to rumble: “Very good handling and performance – just get in and go!”
Why does owning a classic car have to be a “show queen?” Why can’t they be enjoyed for their beauty, nostalgia, and just to have fun!
As for resto-mods, if you don’t like them, don’t drive them! If I found a car with a good body but needed work, I would restore and update it. The car is better off on the road than collecting dirt and not being appreciated.
Sorry for asking, but how rusty is the bottom side of your car. Thx.
I was 16 years old in 1963. The Ford dealer in my home town ( Redding, California) had a red Falcon Sprint Convertible in the show room. I drooled and dreamed of owning that car, with its 260 v8 engine 4 speed transmission, red interior with white top. Unfortunately my dad just didn’t agree. I still love these cars, but now that I’m retired and broke I just don’t see it ever happening. I hope who ever gets this car loves it as much as it deserves. John
Love those Falcon Sprint Convertibles! I concur with Bob Golfen, this one is tastefully done with subtle upgrades making it much quicker. Date nights made tossing the great bucket seats in these seem like a good idea. However this made the correct bucket seats in these cars pretty rare. This one looks great!!
Fantastic… by any slim chance is this car still available.??????
Is this car still for sale?