I have a '65 Ford Fairlane 500 and was wondering if the value is there to make this car worth a restoration. It has a 289.... is it worthwhile to try a big block conversion (like a 460)? Is it important that it is painted original color or an available stock color? Or would it be as much/more valuable to paint it some hot rod orange, metallic blue or something?

 

Usually vintage vehicles are worth more either original, or restored to original specs. Once you start doing things like trick paint you narrow the potential buyer field. I wouldn't put a big block in it unless I was keeping it for myself and enjoying it.

Of course beauty is in the eye of the beholder. We all have our own preferences...........in my experience original brings more value unless you happen to find a buyer that just has to have the particualr modified car you might have for sale.

 

Go to some of your local car shows and you will notice that the best looking rides are the orginal restoration. Don't get me wrong, modified looks good, but the old originals just can't be beat if done right. They are also worth more to the general buyer.

 

289 is definitely an adaptable and fuel saving engine. Keep in mind all that it shares with 302 and 260's. Engine conversion means suspension conversion (to hold the extra weight in line). A variation on the original paint color might do well or use original paint and some fancy stripes.

 

You my have to cut the shock towers to fit that motor in it

 

the 65 is a one year body style so it is farely rare only 15141 made ands not many laft i have the sport coupe and habvent even started and ppl offer me way more then wat i payed

 

If it is a 2 door, it is definitely worth restoring. I would keep it original as possible. I have a 1963 Fairlane 500 4 door that is about 90% restored to original. It has 70,000 original miles on original motor. She has been repainted the original color, which was 'alabaster'.