American Muscle Cars, 1965-1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL

1966 Galaxie Convertible 428cid V8(7-Litre)

1965 Galaxie 2-Dr Hardtop Coupe

1964 Galaxie 2-Dr Hardtop Coupe

The typical definition of muscle car does not always fit the standards set as an intermediate or pony size car. Such is the case with several makes and models of automobiles produced in the classic and muscle car category. Muscle cars can be engineered by mechanics to perform as they desire. There were several models of the big name car manufacturers that fit this category.

Ford produced such a car that has been overlooked by many as a contender in the muscle car bracket. The Ford Galaxie 500 and 500XL grew from their birth in the late 50’s to becoming a candidate for enthusiasts to experiment with. With few changes and modifications, the 1965 Galaxie 500’s were improved for street rods. Although the body style was changed from the long sled look in 1965 to an intermediate size look that boasted boxier and more angular styling with stacked quad headlamps, and a sturdier new frame engineered from Ford’s experience in the stock car world. Ford’s big stockers in 1965 gave the division its best winning season in NASCAR, taking 48 wins out of 55 “Grand National” events.


The 65-66 Galaxie 500XL was a sporty extension of the Galaxie 500. The bodies of the 500XL were stronger and quieter than the previous year’s model of Galaxie. The XLs were given sporty bucket seats and console interior and had power options up to a 410/425hp 427cid V8,although the Galaxie came standard with a small block 289cid. A manual four-speed was available with the big block engines; most Galaxie XLs were built with the trusty 3-speed Cruise-O-Matic. The Galaxie, regardless of it’s weight, averaging 3497-4059lbs, could be quite fast and rewarding to drive. Their popularity declining in years reflected less on their abilities and more on buyer’s preference for the speedier and lighter mid-size muscle cars being engineered. The long overlooked 1965-1966 Ford Galaxies 500XLs are worthy of collector esteem.

1965 Ford Galaxie 500XL Production:

• Hardtop Coupe: 28,141
• Convertible: 9,849

1966 Ford Galaxie 500XL Production:

• Hardtop Coupe: 25,715
• Convertible: 6,360 w/7-Litre engine-428cid
• Hardtop Coupe: 8,705 w/7-Litre engine-428cid
• Convertible: 2,368

Engine Size Horsepower Year

• 289 cid 195/200 1965-1966
• 352 cid 250 1965-1966
• 390 cid 275/300/315 1965-1966
• 428 cid 345 1966
• 427 cid 410/425 1965-1966