Ford led the way in the 1960s in several facets of the market: the mid-size 1962 Fairlane, 1965 Mustang pony car, and the luxurious 1965 LTD. For the latter, Chevrolet quickly responded with the Caprice, while Plymouth followed in 1966 with the Fury VIP. Though the LTD was posh, it could be ordered with performance options, which is but one reason why this 1968 LTD two-door coupe is the Pick of the Day. It’s for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in Tampa, Florida. (Click the link to view the listing)
The 1968 Ford LTD was the first of the model to feature retractable headlamp doors, something that it would offer off and on through the 1970s. Standard engine was a 302 two-barrel with three-speed manual, with two 390s and a 428 four-barrel being the only upgrades. The 428 was not a performance engine at 340 horsepower (a relatively honest rating), but its 462 lb-ft of torque was its main attraction. For the first time in years, Ford didn’t offer a performance engine in its full-size series, as the 427 was available for the last time in 1967.
Inside is where the LTD difference really shone. Up to six color-keyed, pleated cloth and vinyl upholsteries were available. Loop-pile carpeting, clock and full wheel covers were other accoutrements that reflected its more upscale status.
Not only was this Brittany Blue 1968 LTD two-door hardtop ordered with the 428, but it also features a four-speed manual transmission. According to Marti Auto Works, only 17 were built with the 428/four-speed combination. “This car is ready and waiting for a new owner that can take it out on the road and enjoy it,” says the seller. Options include black vinyl top, AM/FM radio, power brakes, and rear defogger. The ad indicates mileage is an incredible 3,640 miles, and a casual glance at this article from Hemmings magazine suggests it’s likely true.
The selling dealer is asking $45,000 for this unusual full-size Ford. It’s not the best car for someone who wants to hop in and drive — it would be a shame to drive up the mileage so much — but it’s the perfect collectible for an enthusiast who enjoys the unique, as this car has distinction in spades.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
Source: www.classiccars.com