The 1962 Ford Falcon
The Ford Falcon was produced by the Ford Motor Corporation between 1960 and 1970 and it originally was a great success for the company. Compared with other compact cars of the day, it was offered in a great selection of trim levels and body styles, making it one of the most customizable cars. It is also important to note that the Falcon name was also used on the original lineup of Ford’s Econoline Vans. The 1962 Ford Falcon is part of the original generation produced from 1960 to 1963, which are possibly the most popular model years as well.
Once Ford realized that there actually was a market for smaller cars, they quickly began production of the Falcon. The biggest competitors for the car were the Chevy Corvair, Studebaker Lark and AMC Rambler. Perhaps the thing that set Ford apart from the other manufacturers was that they still had the ability to produce reliable cars at a very affordable price. The Falcon could be purchase for practically less than any other, and came with a great selection of features.
Body styles available for the 1962 Ford Falcon include a 2 door sedan, 4 door sedan, 3 door station wagon, 5 door station wagon, 2 door hardtop, 2 door convertible, 2 door pickup truck, and a 2 door sedan delivery. With 7 different body styles to choose from it is no wonder that these cars became very popular, there was virtually a model for any need. The available engines could be mismatched between cars, along with the available features for the interior. Most suspension systems and other features were streamlined as to be available on all models as well.
Engines offered include a 2.4 liter inline six cylinder engine (245 cu in), a 2.8 liter inline 6 cylinder, along with a 4.3 liter V8 engine (260 cu in). Most of the smaller 2 door and 3 door models were equipped with the smaller inline 6, except for the convertible which came with the option of a larger engine. The larger vehicles with 4 or 5 doors and the delivery model usually came with the option of the larger inline 6, or the V8 option. The transmission included a 2 speed automatic, 3 speed manual, and a 4 speed manual.
The ‘62 model year also saw the introduction of the Squire model of the 4 door station wagon. This was the beginning of the typical wood paneled wagon which became a part of American history. Also available was the Futura model which was a slightly fancier version of the 1962 Ford Falcon. Inside owners got upgraded upholstery, factory installed safety belts, unique body emblems, and a set of different body trims. Most models were redesigned so that they would be more similar to that of a Thunderbird. Another model available was the 2 door Futura Sedan “Illusion Hardtop” which used only a flat rear window with chrome trim.
While the Ford Falcon was very popular immediately after its creation, by the end of the decade it quickly became outdated. Nonetheless it still remain an important part of American history and has been sough after by many enthusiasts. The popularity and large scale production back in the 60’s makes finding original parts relatively easy. Buyers looking to restore an old car may want to consider one of the many Falcon models.
