Barn Finds

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No Reserve: 48K Mile 1994 Ford Lightning

Jeff Lavery


This 1994 Ford Lighting pickup has under 50,000 original miles and retains its original features, down to the 17-inch wheels and factory radio in the dash. We just recently featured another Lightning pickup that wore incredibly high miles but benefitted from a recent engine rebuild; unfortunately, some of the non-factory details let that truck down, an issue this example does not have. The seller notes it is being sold out of a private collection and is a no-issues turnkey driver. Find it here on eBay with bidding at $11,200 and no reserve.

To sell one of these muscle trucks at the top of the market, it really needs to be an original example. Too many have been modified over the years, often with the penalty of declines in value due to collectors wanting the purest examples. This Lightning appears to have an aftermarket exhaust, which is a bummer for two reasons: one, it’s no longer stock, and two, the factory exhaust is way more subtle. It sounds fantastic when it’s cold without looking obnoxious, so I hope the performance gains of this dual exhaust assembly are worth it.

Unlike the truck we featured a few days ago, this one has a minty fresh interior. The seats show very little signs of wear and tear, and the iconic “Lightning” lettering still looks crisp and sharp. Despite having nearly 50,000 miles, the steering wheel and carpets show no real signs of wear, and the dash is uncracked. These weren’t exactly luxurious interiors in terms of the cabin materials, but despite being somewhat cheap in appearance and texture, everything is holding up well in this example. No word on whether the A/C works.


The seller notes this example is one of only 1,382 produced with the red exterior, and I would agree we see examples clad in white paint far more often. I dig the red, as it seems more fitting for a truck with actual sporting credentials like the Lightning. A corner carver it is not, but suspension upgrades did make it possible for the Lightning to handle less like an actual pickup. The seller notes the only deviation from stock is a set of low-profile tires, but I’m pretty sure the exhaust has been modified as well. Regardless, these are easy fixes if owning a 100% stock Lightning with low miles is your goal.
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford

 

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Project or Parts? 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1

Adam Clarke


While it has very obviously had some pretty major rust issues during its life, a substantial percentage of the rust in this 1970 Mustang Mach 1 has now been addressed. There is still some work to do, but the next owner has at least been given a start on the restoration. The owner also floats the idea of using it as a donor car, but with so much work completed and a clean title in hand, I personally think that dismantling the vehicle would be a real shame. So maybe you should take a look and see what you think. The Mach 1 is located in Spring Run, Pennsylvania, and has been listed for sale here on eBay. There have only been two bids made on the Mustang up to this point, and that has seen it reach $3,550. With the reserve now met and 158 people currently watching the listing, I wouldn’t be surprised if the bidding took off in the near future.

The owner has been pretty busy on the Yellow Mach 1, and plenty of new steel has been welded into place. This includes new rear frame rails, new inner and outer rear wheel wells, new left and right trunk floors, a new fuel tank cross-member, new rear quarter panels, a new tail-light panel, and a new front fender. All have been properly installed, but there is some final welding required to complete the installation. The rusty floors have also been cut out, and while there is a full set of new floors included with the car and currently sitting in place, these will need to be welded. There is still some work required, because the torque boxes will need replacing, and the front right shock tower will require replacement due to it being hit with the double whammy of cracking and rust. There is also a good trunk lid included, but I don’t see a hood or any of the external trim or chrome. The only glass included is the windshield, and that is just sitting in place. So, a full set of tinted glass will need to be sourced if the car is to be restored to the specifications that are outlined in the included Marti Report.

The Mustang rolled off the line equipped with a 351-2V engine, an automatic transmission, and power steering. The original engine has long since disappeared, but a date-correct identical engine and transmission have been included in the sale. The power steering system is still present, while the Mach 1 also has a 9″ rear end. The owner states that the 351 was in good order when parked, but doesn’t indicate how long ago this was and whether he has attempted to see if it will turn freely. With 250hp available to the driver, this combination could provide respectable performance. Of course, if the next owner wasn’t particularly obsessed with complete originality, then the engine could certainly be treated to a few potential upgrades. Without too much stress, it would be possible to extract enough performance to make sub-15-second ¼ mile times easily accessible. I guess that would boost performance from merely respectable up to very respectable.


It is probably no real surprise to learn that the interior of the Mustang is going to require a full restoration. There are plenty of interior components such as seats, door trims, and the dash that are included with the car. The sticking point is that the seats and trim are upholstered in Ivy, whereas the original seats wore Black Knit Vinyl. Still, with so much work required inside the car and so many pieces missing, I suspect that the next owner will either attempt to source a correct interior, or they will invest in a trim kit. The Mach 1 was also originally equipped with air conditioning, but it would seem that there are quite a few components missing. Whether these are replaced or whether the car is restored sans A/C will be a matter of personal preference.

My personal feeling is that with so much work completed to this point, it really would be a shame to dismantle this Mustang for parts. I readily admit that there is still some work required to return the car to a roadworthy state, but it could potentially be well worth the effort. I’m also surprised that the bidding has been so sluggish up to this point. If it stays somewhere within its current price range, then someone could wind up landing themselves a Mustang project car at a very reasonable price. Could that someone be you?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford / Mach 1 / Mustang

 

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Rare Retractable Roof: 1959 Ford Skyliner

Jim ODonnell


Talk about being ahead of the curve, Ford with its Hide-Away-Hardtop was pretty much standing alone with the 1957 introduction of its retractable steel top “Skyliner” convertible. Produced for three years, here’s a 1959 example, the final year of production, located in Windom, Minnesota and available here on Facebook Marketplace for $9,000.


The concept of a folding steel roof emboldened by the three-year run (’57-’59) of this expensive, limited production and complicated car didn’t grace automotive production again for many years. And then, it was found on premium marques like BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, and others. Lincoln borrowed the mechanism concept in ’61 for its new Continental convertible but the top itself was fabric. These Skyliners are seldom seen, there were about 48K produced in its entire three-year run so understanding how the top mechanism works or finding someone who understands how it works, can be a challenge.


The earliest ’59s produced were referred to as the “Fairlane 500 Skyliner” but the name was quickly changed to “Galaxie 500 Skyliner”. Neither the images nor the text provided in the listing reveal which model name this Skyliner utilizes. Actually, the listing images are only fair so it’s hard to get a thorough, complete look at this Ford. The body seems pretty straight but there appears to be some rust percolating in the passenger side door and lower quarter as well as the lower edge of the hood. Beyond that, the two-tone finish still looks reasonably sound, though quite flat. All of the trim is present and the glass looks good too. There are no images of the top in the lowered position and the seller states that he has not had the top down. And frankly, that’s the 800 lb. gorilla with a Skyliner, that folding retractable steel top; it’s a neat concept but a very complicated electro-mechanical operation.

Well at least I won’t be let down by the interior, it has all of the requisite stuff scattered about, including the essential cardboard box gracing the back seat. Speaking of the seats, they are worn and torn and will need to be reupholstered. The carpet is coming apart and will require replacement too, no idea beyond that as the pictures are limited and there’s no provided description; a look at the floor pans would be helpful. The instrument panel, from what can be spied, looks complete.

Under the hood is a “Thunderbird” V8 that is either a 332 or 352 CI unit, providing 225 or 300 gross HP, respectively. Again no details though the seller claims that this Skyliner runs and drives. The seller adds, “to all of you dreamers this is a old car that needs work to B roadworthy”. There is an automatic transmission present but it could be either a two-speed “Fordomatic” or a three-speed “Cruise-O-Matic”. The seller does state, emphatically, that this Ford has inoperative brakes so I guess a test drive is out of the question.

Unique design but the Skyliner always seemed like a car for individuals that wanted a Skyliner and not just a convertible. While the top-up experience in the Skyliner is more refined than a conventional convertible, the top-down experience, the entire reason for a convertible, is about the same. And then there’s that pesky electro-mechanical mechanism of jacks, motors, relays, solenoids, locks and 600 feet of wire to understand. The seller indicates that he is firm on his price for this car. Seems to me he should be a little firmer on the thoroughness and details of his listing considering the nature of this Ford. So, how about you, if you wanted the drop-top experience, would you pursue a Ford Skyliner or aim towards a traditional convertible?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Convertible / Ford / Ford Skyliner

 

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Fastback Project! 1967 Ford Mustang GTA

Montana Danford


The seller of this 1967 Ford Mustang says it is a “25-foot car” meaning it looks decent from about 25 feet. At first glance, I would say they are right. This car is a GTA (Grand Touring Automatic) Fastback that was born with a 289, power steering and brakes, tinted glass, fog lights, and styled steel wheels. It can be found here on eBay with a buy-it-now price of $22,500. Located in Bedford, Virginia, the car also includes a deluxe Marti Report, which is a bonus for any Ford owner. Have a closer look at this pony and see what you think.


The interior definitely needs a little bit of help. You can tell the passenger door panel is missing. The dash looks pretty rough and the back seat is missing…replaced with a speaker panel that looks circa the 1980s. Overall, this looks like a complete refurbish/replacement type of interior to me. How about you?


While the engine appears to still be topped with the original 289 air cleaner, the seller says the original 289 was locked up after sitting for several years. It has been replaced with a 302 that ran well when it was pulled from a donor car. The ad says they have “bolted some of the old parts onto this engine to make it more complete” but unfortunately it isn’t ready-to-run yet.

The car was originally Nightmist Blue but has been repainted to a medium Acapulco Blue. The seller says there appears to be some body filler in the quarter panels and the car “will need typical rust repairs” to the floor pans, quarters and trunk floor. Hopefully, the rust isn’t too bad, but the buyer probably won’t know until it is thoroughly inspected. Overall, it seems like a decent project. What do you think?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford / Mustang




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Un-Cut Survivor! 1966 Ford Bronco

Montana Danford


Apparently this Bronco spent its life on an old homestead in Wyoming but when the clutch went out, it was parked for about twenty-five years! It was rescued, given life again, and can be yours to enjoy. Found here on eBay with a current bid of $10,100, it is a un-cut survivor and has great patina. Currently located in Spearfish, South Dakota, there are a few things that still need to be done, but the seller has given the new owner a great head start. Have a look for yourself.


The interior looks fairly original except for the seat cover. Although they have some surface rust, the floor pans don’t look too bad. The seller installed a new ignition switch, horn button kit, steering column shifter housing, and turn signal yoke.


The engine is the original straight-six. Along with replacing the clutch (that was the original cause of it to be parked for so long), the gas tank was removed and refurbished. A new radiator was installed along with new hoses, thermostat, coolant, and cap. Other maintenance items were done including an oil change, carburetor rebuild, new spark plugs, new battery, and brake master cylinder kit. The only thing the seller says still needs to be done is the fan belt.

The back only has a single jump-seat. I’ve never seen this option before. They usually have no seat or a small bench. Perhaps someone added it in the past? The floor pans in these first-generation Broncos are usually the first spot to look for any rust issues. This one looks pretty solid, but a good inspection by any prospective buyers is probably a good idea.

Here you can see the un-cut fenders and the great patina that this truck has. The tires are the same ones that the truck was stored with which were all flat when it was rescued. The seller says they need to be replaced if you intend to drive it very far. Overall, this looks like another example of a solid survivor. What do you think?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Bronco / Ford

 

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Looks can be deceiving.

Under-The-Hood Surprise! 1977 Ford F-100 Custom

Montana Danford


As far as the 2wd custom truck scene goes, the mid-70s Chevrolet is much more popular than their Ford counterparts. However, custom Fords are becoming more popular and have started to be supported pretty well by the aftermarket. This 1977 Ford F100 sits on a full custom chassis and features a surprise under the hood! It can be found here on eBay with a buy-it-now price of $17,000. Located in West Chester, Pennsylvania this one looks like a fun cruiser that can be driven as-is or customized further if the new owner chooses to. Have a look for yourself and see what powers this beast!


The entire truck sits on a Mercury Marauder chassis and is outfitted with a 4.6L supercharged engine and Tremec T-6 6 speed manual transmission. There are only 41,600 miles on the drivetrain, so it should have a lot of life left. The supercharged engine breathes through an Off-Road H-pipe and Flowmaster 40 mufflers.


The interior features Mustang SVT Cobra gauges along with an aftermarket steering wheel and shifter. As you can see, the dash pad has been removed and the interior is pretty basic. This leaves the new owner some opportunities to customize it the way they want or drive it as-is.

The Cobra theme is continued into the bed. You can tell the floor has been raised almost to the top of the wheel wells. The bed is covered by a Covertec bed cover and the wood features a laser printed Cobra emblem. Overall, this truck looks like a fun cruiser. What do you think?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: F100 / Ford

 

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King of the Campground.

Amazing 2019 SEMA Build: 1983 Chevrolet C30 Camper

Montana Danford


If you follow the SEMA show every year, you might recognize this 1983 Chevy camper known as “Brown Sugar.” It was at the 2019 show and was said to be one of the most photographed vehicles in attendance. Built by River City Rods in Davenport, Iowa, it is now for sale. Imagine, you can own an actual SEMA vehicle that is an instant attention-getter. It can be found here on eBay with a current bid of almost $100,000 and you can also find it advertized for sale here on GRClassics.com with an asking price of $179,990. This camper was a top 40 Battle Of The Builders contender at SEMA, Street Trucks Top 10 pick, and it also won the Peoples Choice award at the QCCA Expo Center Rod & Custom Show.

This amazing build started as a 1983 Chevrolet C-class motorhome. The original camper was removed and the pickup bed was extended. It was then topped with a new camper and built with extremely high standards. The interior is mostly handcrafted including the whiskey barrels which hold sub-woofers. The sink was created from a vintage Coca-Cola cooler and the camper is fully functional with a black tank, water pump, and freshwater hookup. The front sleeping area features a television and is powered by a standard 30 amp RV connector.

The retro look is carried to the driver’s compartment with a great plaid print on the seats trimmed with a matching brown color.


As you would expect from a SEMA build, the engine compartment is highly stylized and looks like a work of art. The engine is a 5.3-liter GM LS iron-block V8 backed by a 4L80E automatic transmission.

As you can see from the stance, this truck rides on a complete air ride suspension system and can lay the front cross-member on the ground when it is aired out. The rear suspension is kept in place by a Watts Link setup and the front suspension and steering are provided by GSI. Overall, this is an awesome truck and will hopefully find a new home. What do you think? Would you spend six-figures on a setup like this?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Chevrolet

 

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The Seats in this one Scream the 70s, but at least the 360 4 Barrel made all the right noises and would smoke the rear tires.

1 of 47 With 360 V8! 1974 Dodge Dart Hang 10

Scotty Gilbertson


Dodge had several special editions for the Dart in the 1970s and this 1974 Dodge Dart Hang 10 edition is the nicest one that I have ever seen. It also has a rare engine option which gives it even more of an appeal. This beautiful car can be found here on eBay in Palm Springs, California. There is no reserve, seven days left on the auction, and the current bid price of $14,500! This one will be interesting to watch.


The Hang 10 edition Dodge Dart was one of several special editions offered by Dodge, such as the Spirit of ’76, the Caravan, the Dart Lite, and the Convertriple. Only around 700 of the Hang 10 editions were reportedly made over two years, 1974 and 1975. Even fewer of them had a 360 V8, this car is one of them. Plymouth offered several special editions for their Duster, too. I love the era of special editions.


This car has been restored according to the seller. Or, parts of it have been. It really appears to be in almost like-new condition and they have provided a ton of great photos. They don’t mention rust or bodywork but they say that it has a solid chassis and it had good solid metal prior to being restored. Check out the photos, it looks like an amazing car, even underneath. In 2018, a similar car but with a 318 V8 sold at a Mecum auction for $30,000. This one is a screaming bargain at its current price, but there is still a week left on the auction.

Now THAT’S an interior! I wish car companies had interiors like this today, or at least had the option of choosing a non-black/tan interior. The carpet is original but the seats have been reupholstered and they’re gorgeous both front and rear. The trunk looks great and the big kahunas who typically got lured in by the Dart Hang 10 edition were surfers. The rear seat and trunk panel both fold down and yes, there is room for a surfboard and this one comes with the sale!

The engine almost makes me openly weep it’s so beautiful and clean. The seller says that this is 1 of 47 Hang 10 edition Dodge Darts with a 360 cubic-inch V8 from the factory and the VIN does show that it’s a 360 V8 with a 4-barrel carb. They say that “engine compartment is very correct and original with several of the original factory decals still intact and left that way on purpose proving the pristine original survivor condition this vehicle was in prior to its restoration.” Any thoughts on this beautiful example of the Dart Hang 10?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Dodge Dart

 

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1966 Ford Mustang GT With 19k Genuine Miles!

Adam Clarke


The owner of this 1966 Mustang GT claims that it has an original and documented 19,000 miles on the odometer, and it certainly does presentl nicely. It isn’t 100% original, but returning it to a completely stock state would not be a big or expensive undertaking. It is a clean and rust-free classic, and with values on Mustangs continuing to climb, this is one that might represent an investment that is both more interesting and more enjoyable than any Share Certificate. The GT is located in Willoughby, Ohio, and has been listed for sale here on eBay. The owner has set a BIN of $25,495, although the option is available to make an offer.

Frustratingly, the owner doesn’t supply many photos of the Mustang’s exterior, but he does supply a good selection looking underneath the car. What you find is a car that is spotlessly clean, with the original red oxide undercoat still in place. The Mustang has spent the majority of its life in either California or Florida, before finding its way to Ohio. It still wears its original California black plates, and the owner states that the vehicle has never had any rust repairs. All of the steel is original, as is the Sauterne Gold paint color with the Black vinyl top. That’s not to say that things remain completely original, as the Mustang has received a repaint in its original color, while the vinyl top has also been replaced. During this process, any exterior chrome or trim which wasn’t deemed to be of acceptable quality was either restored or replaced. The tinted glass all appears to be in very nice condition, meaning that there is little for the next owner to do around the outside of the vehicle except to stand back and admire the Mustang’s lines.

It seems that when the exterior of the Mustang was treated to its refresh, the interior also received some attention. The Ivy Gold and White trim and upholstery look faultless, while the same is true of the dash and carpet. There have been a few aftermarket additions made to the interior, and I’m really not sure about them. The first is an aftermarket stereo in the dash where the factory radio used to be. Thankfully, the dash hasn’t been cut to install this, so refitting an original radio wouldn’t be a problem. More glaring is the console extension with cup holders. I’ve been trying to find a diplomatic way to express how much I dislike it, but words fail me on that one. It just looks completely out of place, because its style simply doesn’t match the rest of the interior. That would have to go. One bonus is the inclusion of air conditioning. This is said to blow cool, but not cold. The owner feels that it will at least require some additional gas, but there could also be a leak in the system that will need to be addressed.


The Mustang is a numbers-matching car, featuring an A-code 289ci V8 engine, automatic transmission, and power steering. The owner admits that the engine bay doesn’t present to the same standard as the rest of the vehicle, but does offer to provide a full detail of the engine bay for an additional $500. Personally, if I was the owner, I would’ve detailed this area of the car before listing it, and then raised the BIN price slightly. The detailing offer feels like an afterthought to me, but it will be interesting to see what you think. The vehicle is said to be in good mechanical health, with the original carburetor recently rebuilt, while it has also received a new fuel tank, new brakes, and a new dual exhaust with the correct chrome tips. One non-original item under the hood is the air cleaner. I have no doubt that the 289 probably breathes slightly better through the current unit, but I would love to see the original air cleaner when I opened the hood. The owner states that the car comes with an enormous folder of documentation, and it appears that this verifies all aspects of the Mustang’s history, including the mileage.

When I was a boy, my dream car was a 1966 Mustang Coupe with a 289 V8 under the hood. That means that this particular vehicle comes close to being the car of my dreams. However, I am not letting this fact cloud my opinion, because there are a few things that I have previously mentioned that would need to be addressed if the Mustang was to be presented as a low-mileage and original survivor. What I will say is that regardless of whether or not the next owner chooses to make any changes, this still looks like a really solid car, and with values on 1st Generation Mustangs continuing to increase, there is a good chance that this car could be a great investment.

Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Coupe / Ford / Mustang GT




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Golden Nugget Special! 1968 Ford Mustang

Russell Glantz


When we think of rare or limited-edition Mustangs, many people think of Shelbys or California Specials – but the Golden Nugget is an equally, if not more rare breed, of Pony. This particular one is up for sale here on craigslist on its home turf of Newman Lake, Washington in the Pacific Northwest. What’s it all about? Read on to find out! (Big thanks to reader Local_Sheriff for the tip)


Anyone who knows anything about the Blue Oval knows at least some part of the Mustang story. What most people don’t know is the story of the Golden Nugget Special, so here it is: This special-edition 1968 Mustang was offered only in the Pacific Northwest market, and if my sources are correct, they intended to make 525 examples, but only 481 were actually produced. It was apparently a special promotional item that could not be ordered, you just had to show up, and if your dealer had their allotted single car available, it could be yours for no extra charge.


According to a listing on MustangAttitude : “All of the Gold Nugget Mustangs were only available in the Coupe model, with Sunlit Gold exterior paint, hood blackout stripes, and a black vinyl top with either black or nugget gold interior. They were produced with varying combinations of engines, transmissions and other available options. “We can see and/or are told that this particular one has a V8 with automatic transmission and black vinyl roof skin. The seller also says that the engine, paint, and body are all original, with some interior pieces having been replaced. It apparently hasn’t run in a few years, but that might not be too bad – presuming that the unmentioned mileage or engine health isn’t too bad. We aren’t given an ideal set of pictures, but we can get a pretty good idea overall.

I myself don’t know a lot about Mustangs, but I do know a unique machine when I see one. If I had the budget, I’d be on my way to check this out while writing this article about it! They’re asking $9250, so it might end up being a pretty decent deal. That’s what I think, what do YOU think? Let us know in the comments!
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford / Mustang

 

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Investment Grade: 8k Mile 1967 Shelby GT500 Fastback

Adam Clarke


Update 3/23/20 – This sweet Shelby still hasn’t found a home yet so it has been listed here on eBay once again.
From 1/18/20 – This 1967 Shelby GT500 is a car that has led a very sheltered existence. During its life, it has been in the possession of four different owners and even spent 34-years in a climate-controlled private museum. Sadly, the car’s last owner passed away last year, and now the Shelby is set to head off to a new home. Located in Portland, Oregon, the GT500 has been listed for sale here on eBay. Bidding has reached $100,100, but the reserve has not been met to this point.

The timing for this particular GT500 to come onto the market is actually quite interesting. Earlier this week, the legendary “Little Red” appeared in public for the first time since it underwent a meticulous restoration. “Little Red” was the prototype for the 1967 GT500, and it was thought to have been crushed many years ago. However, it was discovered neglected and unloved sitting in a field in Texas in 2018. The story of this GT500 most certainly isn’t one of abandonment or neglect, as it appears to have led a very sheltered life. It was purchased by its original owner in June of 1968. It was retained by him until 1984 when it was purchased by a well-known collector and Pebble Beach judge by the name of Gordon Apker. In 1988 it went to its third owner, spending the next 34-years in a private museum. The last owner purchased it in 2018 and returned it to active duty. The result of this careful ownership is a vehicle that has been verified as wearing its original and unrestored Brittany Blue Irridescent paint. This remains in extraordinary condition, while the panels are as straight as an arrow. The comprehensive series of photos supplied by the owner shows that this is a vehicle that is completely rust-free, while the Deluxe wheels look to be in as-new condition. The stripes and graphics appear to be perfect, while the external trim and glass appear to be free of any obvious flaws.


Of course, a GT500 is not merely about looks. Under the hood, you will find a 428 Cobra LeMans V8, producing a healthy 355hp. This particular car also features a 3-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. This combination resulted in a vehicle that could accelerate from 0-60 in 6.5 seconds and produce a ¼ mile ET of 15 seconds. The presentation under the hood is extremely impressive, and it gets a whole lot better when you realize that this is a numbers-matching car. Having lived such a sheltered existence, combined with the fact that the GT500 has covered a genuine 8,900 miles, makes none of this particularly surprising. The seller says that the GT500 runs and drives extremely well, and if you check out the supplied video at the bottom of this article, you will not only get a walk-around to see how well the vehicle presents, but you will also get an opportunity to hear that glorious V8 running. What I will say is that it sounds as crisp and clean today as it would have sounded 53-years-ago.

The interior of the Shelby presents just as nicely as you would expect from a car like this. The Black trim appears to be faultless, while the carpet has managed to avoid any obvious signs of wear or fading. All of the correct gauges are present, as is the working AM radio, roll bar, shoulder harnesses, and the folding rear seat. The dash and steering wheel presents beautifully, but there are a couple of aftermarket additions to note inside the vehicle. The first of these is a pair of fire extinguishers that have been clamped to the roll bar on either side. These are easy to remove and besides, I actually don’t fancy having those right behind my head is something does go horribly wrong. Harder to change will be removing a set of aftermarket speakers that have been flush-mounted into the trim either side of the rear seat. This isn’t the end of the world, because replacement trims are readily available. It is just an unfortunate change to what is essentially an original and unmolested classic.

I have to give the seller some credit with his approach to advertising this 1967 Shelby GT500. If you play the supplied video, you will find that the background music for it is “Happy Together” by The Turtles. Not only is this song from the same year as the Shelby, but it would probably be an apt description of how the next owner and this classic would feel. I know that if I had the opportunity to own it, that the GT500 and I would be happy together. How about you?

Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

 

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Free Bird: 1967 Ford Thunderbird

Chebby


Well probably not free for you or me, but here’s the second lucky duck of the day who found a classic car on the property when buying their house. It’s listed here on craigslist in Portland, Oregon. Thank you, Roger, for tipping us off to this one!


The ever-popular Thunderbird debuted in 1955, and by 1966, the new Ford Mustang was crowding the ‘Bird in the sporty coupe market. Being substantially less expensive, the Mustang had the upper hand. Ford’s response was to take the T-Bird upmarket, and the all-new 1967 was a larger, more luxurious car built like a Lincoln. For the first time, the grille had hidden headlights, the convertible was no more, and a sedan was available. Personally I think the sedan is the coolest of the 5th generation T-Birds because it looks more balanced and besides the Lincoln Continental, its the only other American car of its day to feature suicide doors. And suicide doors are badass! Despite that incredibly super obvious fact, the four-door model would be discontinued after 1971.


The seller calls it a barn find, although it’s really more of a carport. They don’t know much about the car other than it was last registered in 2001. So here’s what we can tell from the pictures. It’s the more popular coupe model, packing either a 390 or 428 V8 engine with a three-speed Cruise-O-Matic transmission because this is a personal luxury car and shifting is for the common people. Inside, the light-colored seats are filthy, but look intact. They might freshen up with a good steam cleaning. Some rodents appear to have feasted on the headliner and there are chunks of it in the back seat. The cabin is probably going to smell strongly of mildew and varmint unless you know a great detail guy.

The exterior appears straight and in good shape minus a few rust holes around the rear window. The paint might even be presentable—a good wash and polish will do wonders. I do wonder how a car that’s sat for so long can have such fresh-looking mud on the tires. And if you get it running, you can experience the all-time coolest 1960’s car feature—sequential tail lights.

The seller says this is a “once in a lifetime find”—probably for them, as while 1967 T-Birds are unusual, you do see them around. They are looking to trade it for a truck or cargo van, which is probably more reasonable than their placeholder asking price of $11,111. Sadly for the new homeowners, in this condition, I’m guessing its worth about 10% of that figure. What do you say, would you bring this ‘Bird in for a landing?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford / Thunderbird

 

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I drove a few of these in the early 80s, had a few with 305 4 Barells and in 84 drove one from L Division (PEI) that had the 350 4 Barell while on Advanced Driver Training in Pennfield NB, they were capable cars with the 305 and really flew with the 350

9C1 Police Package: 1981 Chevy Malibu

Jeff Lavery


This 1981 Chevrolet Malibu is a former police vehicle with the desirable 9C1 package, purchased by an individual with a knack for scoring at auctions in which scores of former cop cars were disposed of. The seller acquired the vehicle from his friend, among several other former cop cars, following his passing. The Malibu retains all of the cool features that make police vehicles slightly more bad-ass than their non-police siblings, like heavy duty steering and suspension and Recaro-style front bucket seats. It even retains its official paint job from its days in service for the Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Oregon. Find this 9C1 survivor here on eBay where bidding is at $1,525 with the reserve unmet.

While we see police-spec Caprices, Impalas, and even Mustangs pop up with some frequency, the Malibu is one we don’t spot all that often. The seller notes that it has survived incredibly well despite being off the road for years, and you can still see the remnants of the unit number on the roof and on the bumpers. While it’s certainly rough in patches, the originality is impressive. The seller notes that there was also a pushbar and a spotlight when it was in policy duty (now missing), and evidence of a lightbar on the roof when it was in service. Without a doubt, the next owner should track down the original police-spec accessories and re-install as soon as possible after taking delivery.

I was most intrigued by the interior, as those look all the world like Recaro bucket seats that have been recovered in durable blue vinyl. I can’t recall seeing a Malibu police car with bucket seats like this, but I do know Recaro provided their supportive buckets to many departments. The interior is in good condition overall, with the seller noting that the dash is cracked and the headliner will need to be redone. The Malibu still has its police-grade vinyl floor covering which remains in good shape, and the steering wheel doesn’t show much in the way of wear and tear. The seller notes the mileage as being 135,359, and that it is believed to be genuine. In my opinion, this car presents way better than that mileage would indicate.


The engine is a 350 with four-barrel carburetor. Despite not having run since 1991, the seller notes that it fired back up with ease and ran well, and that the braking system still works as intended. Like most classics from the Pacific Northwest, rust isn’t much of an issue, with the seller noting the only issue being a rotten trunk lid that developed pin holes leading to rust in the trunk. The floor of the trunk is not compromised to the point of needing replacement, but the trunk lid should be replaced. The rest of the Malibu is rot-free, and rock chips are the only other noted cosmetic defects of any significance. Overall, this is a very cool alternative to the typical police car that enters into civilian use, and I hope the next owner does its heritage justice with an authentic re-creation.
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Chevrolet

 

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A car from my Youth, a Friend's older brother had same year, and color with Vinyl Roof, NON SS with 425 HP 350 LT1, Muncie M22 Rock Crusher 4 Speed with a 3:73 Posi rear end. That Car boogied

Numbers Matching Survivor! 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

Montana Danford


This 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle is a 2-owner, true SS 396 that has 54K documented miles! It can be found for sale here on eBay with a current bid over $22,000. Located in North Tazewell, Virginia, the car was originally sold new at Elmore Chevrolet in Bolivia, North Carolina. As you’ll see, there is a ton of documentation with the car. If you’ve been looking for a survivor Chevelle, this might be the one for you. Check it out!


The drivetrain is all numbers-matching which includes the original 325 horsepower 396 mated to a 400 automatic transmission and 12-bolt rear end. The alternator, distributor, etc. are all original. Normal maintenance items have been replaced over the years like the brake booster, tires, plugs, and wires. The car also features power steering and brakes along with factory air conditioning.


As mentioned before, the car was sold at Elmore Chevrolet. You can see evidence of this by the bumper sticker located right below the SS emblem. There is quite a bit of paperwork that goes along with the car including the original protect-o-plate. The seller also says they have the original bill of sale, owners manual, broadcast card, carpet tag, and misc service receipts. This documentation is invaluable to document the provenance of the car!

Here you can see the front bench seat looks like it is in great shape along with the rest of the interior. The back seat looks like it’s never been sat in! According to the ad, the 8-track player still works!

The top is the original vinyl and other than a few paint touch-ups, the rest of the exterior is original. You may notice a few aftermarket parts, but the original air cleaner, hubcaps, floor mats, and spare in the trunk. Overall, this is an awesome survivor and anyone should be proud to own this one. What do you think?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Chevelle / Chevrolet




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1966 Ford Mustang GT Convertible A-Code 4-Speed

Scotty Gilbertson


As a barn find – and I don’t mean when some sellers mention that just to have the words “barn finds” on someone’s car search – this 1966 Ford Mustang GT Convertible A-Code 4-speed was really found in a barn. As in, this one right here. The seller has it listed here as a Barn Finds Classified and they’re asking $14,950. It’s located in beautiful Cape Girardeau, Missouri, a town that I drive through several times a year on my travels. Let’s check it out.


I can’t imagine the feeling of coming across a car like this Mustang just languishing in a barn, pole building, or garage. I would probably be looking for the hidden camera, as in a Candid Camera moment, for those of you old enough to remember that show. We all know that I’m strange, but the photo above is my favorite of the 73 photos (no lie) that the seller has provided. The faded blue paint, white Mustang rocker stripes, that fantastic wheel cover on a thin whitewall tire, and that 289 V badge. Very cool.


Here’s what they came upon in that barn. This is a first-generation Mustang, of course, and the last year of the original design that debuted at the New York World’s Fair in 1964. The GT Equipment Package gave this Mustang disc brakes, those rocker stripes, and grille-mounted foglights.

You can see that being parked on that dirt floor for who knows how many years, or decades, has taken its toll on the lower parts of this car. The floors are in bad condition and they mention rust on the lower parts of the body panels and the underside photos show a similar scary story. But, the seats look good in the front and mostly good in the back. For a comparison, Hagerty is at $25,000 for a #4 fair condition car and $34,300 for a #3 good condition car.

The A-Code part of this car’s history comes from the 5th digit in the VIN, which is, of course, an A. It was basically the middle child engine option for the 289 cubic-inch V8 and it had 225 hp. There was a C-Code with a two-barrel carb and 200 hp and also a K-Code with 271 hp. The seller says that this engine turns over freely and if a person had some experience welding, this would be one grade-A project. Have any of you owned a similar car?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford Mustang

 

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A-Code Fastback: 1967 Ford Mustang

Jeff Lavery


I’m almost positive I saw photos of this exact car being unearthed on Facebook recently, as the wheels, those mudflaps, and the fastback body are all super specific clues that line up with an example that had long been hidden away behind tarps and other scattered debris. The removal of the car drew plenty of virtual cheers from the web audience, as the Mustang had plenty of desirable traits, plainly visible as it was dragged through the mud and onto a waiting trailer. The car is a factory A-Code fastback an automatic transmission and factory A/C, and while it has rust in the frame in multiple locations, bidding is still active on the car. Find it listed here on eBay where bidding has reached $12,500 with no reserve.

The final clue for me is the seller’s mention of the Mustang being hidden away in a makeshift garage, which was absolutely what it looked like. Imagine a series of tarps hung over clotheslines, with artificial walls constructed in between – that’s what the previous owner of this car had constructed in his backyard. I’m always a little bit deflated to see cars like this end up for sale so quickly, as the original poster on Facebook seemed excited to get to work on restoring this desirable Mustang. Did they intend to flip it all along? Who knows, and it’s completely their choice. Still, I had hoped I’d see the individual who discovered it update us all in three years’ time that he had successfully restored the long-dead ‘Stang, but that honor will have to go to someone else.

I love the colors, which is denoted as Burnt Amber paint with a black interior. The paint and cabin are holding up surprisingly well, with most of the bad news hidden beneath the car. The seller notes this is a factory console car with A/C, and that all of the cooling components are present (though the compressor was found on the backseat.) The driver’ seat obviously needs work, but the dash, door panels, and passenger seat all look to be in decent shape. The seller notes that rust issues in the frame concentrated in the front rails and floorpans. The underside photos in the eBay listing do show some ugliness, but fortunately with a car like a ’67 Mustang, you’re going to be able to find the needed replacement sections without too much heavy lifting.


The seller notes that he bought the car intending to build an “Eleanor” clone but decided against it, but never attempted to start the car due to the expectation that the original engine would be scrapped. Given the completeness found under-hood, I would have taken a run at seeing if it’d turn over before listing it, but that doesn’t seem to be dampening bidder interest. Fastbacks are seemingly always in demand, whether for the reasons the seller snagged this one or simply because enthusiasts like the way they look. Whatever route the next owner takes, they should be sure to ask the seller for the photos of the Mustang emerging from behind the maze of tarps, as it will make each small improvement feel even bigger considering where the car lay hidden for years.
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford / Mustang

 

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Poor Man’s Cobra: V8-Powered 1961 MGA Roadster

Adam Clarke


There are two types of surprises in the world. There are the pleasant types that bring us joy and happiness. Of course, there’s also the other type, which usually doesn’t involve a lot of fun. This 1961 MGA definitely falls into the former category, because it not only looks to be a nicely restored British classic, but it packs a surprise that should put a smile on the majority of people’s faces. I know that if I owned this one, you would be hard-pressed to remove the smile from my face with a sandblaster. The MG is located in Freeville, New York, and has been listed for sale here on Craigslist. The owner is asking $20,000 for this beauty. I have to say thank you to Barn Finder Ikey H for referring a vehicle to us that really embodies the spirit of cooperation between the US and the UK.

The MG looks striking in its British Racing Green, and the panels seem to be extremely straight. The vehicle underwent a restoration back in 2010, and at that point, the body was removed from the frame, and everything was thoroughly inspected. What this revealed was not a single spot of rust anywhere, so the frame, the floors, and the inner fenders were treated to a coat of POR-15 before the car was reassembled. The trim and chrome appear to be nice, while the same can be said for the glass. The 15″ VTO wheels aren’t original, but they do suit the character of the vehicle. They also allow the fitting of some pretty decent tires, and as you will soon come to learn, this is almost certainly a good thing. There is a Plastic Dynamics hardtop and side curtains included with the MG, along with a cockpit cover and a car cover.

Now we get a chance to reveal this car’s party piece. The engine bay no longer houses a 1,588cc 4-cylinder engine. What sits there now is an A-code 289ci V8. The original engine would have produced a mere 80hp. In standard form, an A-code pumps out 225hp…but this one isn’t standard. It has been fitted with a Holley Street Avenger carburetor, a Petronix ignition system, a dual exhaust, and was treated to a full rebuild by Pike’s Engine & Machine Shop, in Watkins Glen, New York. The result of this handiwork is an engine that now produces a conservative 250hp. In a car that weighs a mere 2,070lbs, that does promise some entertaining motoring. Of course, shoving all of those horses through a standard MGA transmission and rear-end is a recipe for frequently hearing a loud “bang,” and then finding that you are reduced to walking to your destination. That shouldn’t be a problem, because the 4-speed has made way for a C4 automatic, while a narrowed Ford 9″ rear transmits the power to the pavement. In case you are worried about the potential reliability (or otherwise) of this work, you should be able to relax just a bit. This conversion is not new…by a very long way. In fact, this particular MGA received its original V8 conversion back in 1970. That original V8 was a 260, but a 289 was swapped in during the 2010 refurbishment. The owner states that the car runs and drives well and that there are no issues with problems such as overheating.


It’s hard to be truly critical of the MG’s interior because it does present very nicely. If I want to be pedantic, I do wish that the timber trim on the doors, door caps, and the dash cap all matched. I won’t criticize the timber dash, because that is a work of art…literally. The woodgrain on the dash actually isn’t woodgrain at all. The owner’s wife hand-painted it, and in the photos, it is almost impossible to tell that it isn’t real. The cream upholstery on the seats looks faultless, while the carpet has remained remarkably free of stains when you consider the shade that was chosen. The gauges are a bit of a mismatch, but this has probably been a matter of necessity given the modifications that have been performed. If the next owner finds this a distraction, then it would potentially be possible to address this issue.

One aspect that was often criticized with post-war British sports cars was a general lack of horsepower. An MGA can be a lovely car in which to tackle some twisting roads, but they are a car that generally lacks punch out of slow corners. That shouldn’t be an issue with this car, and it promises to be a vehicle that could be pretty easily steered on the throttle. This is a car that is guaranteed to plaster an enormous grin on your face and let’s be honest, that can never be a bad thing.
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: MG / MGA / Roadster

 

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Mostly Original: $5k 1965 Ford Mustang

Adam Clarke


Affordable 1st Generation Mustang project cars that can be driven and enjoyed are starting to become more scarce these days. Most of the examples that we see here at Barn Finds are either quite nicely restored, or they are cars that will require some pretty significant work before they will ever move safely under their own power once again. That is where this 1965 model is a bit different. It runs and drives, and while it might need some work, none of this appears to be particularly urgent. That leaves the option open of driving the car immediately and undertaking the restoration at your own leisure. The Mustang is located in Beaverton, Oregon, and has been listed for sale here on Craigslist. The sale price for the classic Ford has been set at $4,999 OBO. I do have to thank Barn Finder local_sheriff for locating the Mustang for us.

The Prairie Bronze Mustang spent 30-years under a cover in storage before the current owner purchased it, and it has now been returned to a roadworthy state. It is believed that the vehicle received a repaint in its original color at some point, and the owner indicates that the quality of this is mediocre. The car still presents quite well, but the owner also believes that the storage environment may not have been stable and completely dry, as some rust and corrosion has developed. The worst of this is in the lower quarter panels and trunk floor, but the owner indicates that it isn’t severe. Beyond those issues, the body looks nice and straight, while the glass, along with the external trim and chrome, all present quite well.

You can say one thing about this Mustang, and that is that it seems to be consistent across the entire vehicle. The interior is tidy and presentable, but it isn’t outstanding. The seats and other upholstered surfaces look okay, while the same seems to be true of the dash pad and headliner. The carpet looks really tired, while the armrests have deteriorated noticeably. However, the bigger issue for me is the sheer quantity of corrosion that is starting to appear on many interior surfaces. This is going to require more than a quick clean, with the interior trim needing to be removed in its entirety to fix the problem properly. Still, this would represent a great chance to replace the carpet and to clean and detail every item as the interior is reassembled. It would also allow the new owner to identify all of the little items that could stand being replaced because it is these minor components that make the difference between a good restoration and a great one.


If you were hoping to find a V8 under the hood, then you will probably be disappointed with what you find here. This is the 200ci 6-cylinder engine, which pushes 120hp to the rear wheels via a 3-speed automatic transmission. As a mechanical combination, this represents the slowest and least powerful configuration available in the Mustang range for 1965. However, after 30-years of inactivity, the owner treated the vehicle to a new fuel tank, new front brakes, and a new exhaust. The Mustang now runs and drives, with the motor feeling strong, while the transmission shifts smoothly. There are a few issues to address to have the car mechanically perfect. The choke doesn’t operate properly, meaning the car is slightly stubborn when cold. The engine also blows some blue smoke. This could be something as simple as valve stem seals, or it could be an indication of something more serious. This is the moment where the new owner will face some decisions. The vehicle looks to be very original, and I wouldn’t blame that person if they chose to rebuild the engine to try to maintain the vehicle’s originality. I would also fully understand if the next owner chose to scrap the existing motor and transmission, and slotted something a bit more potent into the engine bay. It wouldn’t be the first Mustang to share this fate, and all of the hardware to drop almost anything into the engine bay is readily available.

So, a running, driving, roadworthy, and fairly presentable 1st Generation Mustang for under $5,000. That has to be a tempting proposition. Sure, there are cheaper examples out there to be found, and some of these will even have a V8 under the hood. However, the vast majority won’t be anywhere near as solid as this one appears to be. That makes it an interesting proposition, but it also leaves me slightly torn. I’m trying to decide whether I would leave it mechanically original, or whether something more potent would find its way under the hood. What would you do?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford / Mustang




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Highway Patrol: 1982 Dodge Ramcharger CHP

Scotty Gilbertson


You vintage TV buffs know that Ponch and Jon rode Kawasakis on the TV show CHiPs, they wouldn’t have had any use for a 4×4 like this 1982 Dodge Ramcharger CHP vehicle. This is the real deal according to the seller who has it listed here on eBay in beautiful Laguna Beach, California, where I should have moved after high school. The current bid is $8,100 and there is no reserve.


There’s something cool about police vehicles, unless you’re riding in one involuntarily or one is coming up behind you. I can see why collectors go for these things, especially something like this 4×4 Ramcharger that would actually be useful off-road. I had a 1976 Ramcharger and it was horrible, but I’m guessing that Dodge had worked many of the bugs out by 1982, or maybe I just had a lemon.


This seller is not shy about listing the shortcomings of this CHP Ramcharger, but that doesn’t seem to be holding back the bidders at all. There are some scary spots on this car such as this A-pillar where one of the spotlights is mounted and several other areas. I’m guessing that being near saltwater for 38 years has caused more than just this Ramcharger some problems in California. Most of us think of it as the perfect area to get rust-free vehicles from but that’s not always the case.

The interior is businesslike as you would expect a police vehicle to be. Vinyl seats may not be the best for hot weather but the material is durable and easy to clean and these have been recovered, according to the seller. The dash is equipped with some patrol goodies and I’m not sure if this Ramcharger was in service recently or not, or if it’s used more for parade duty now. I’m surprised that there are no photos behind the front seats at all.

The engine is Dodge’s 318 cubic-inch V8 with a brand new 4-barrel carb, new alternator, battery, a new fuel pump, and ice-cold AC. They say that it smokes a little on start-up and the power steering pump drips a bit, and there is a new exhaust system but there are no catalytic converters. This would certainly catch more than a few eyes on your next grocery run. Are there any fans of police vehicles out there? Have any of you owned one?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: 4X4 / Dodge / Police




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No Reserve Driver: 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1

Jesse Mortensen


As fun as it is to bring a barn find back to life, sometimes it’s nice to start with something you can drive home. This Mustang is a little rough around the edges but the seller has done a lot of work to make the car a runner. It’s located in Glendora, California and is listed here on eBay with no reserve. The auction is ending soon so don’t delay if you’re in the market for a Mach 1.


Here you can see the evidence of the work already done. The valve covers may not have been necessary, but the new carb, distributor, and tune-up are appreciated. There also appears to be a new Edelbrock intake manifold under there so I assumed someone did a two to four-barrel upgrade, but a quick VIN decode shows us that this 351 left the factory with a four-barrel carburetor.


The only big negative here is the rust. The corners of the doors are toast and I’m sure there’s more of the nasty stuff hiding under the surface. The seller claims that the floors and trunk are solid though. They also mention some unseen pluses like a new radiator, water pump, and muffler. Most importantly though is the fact that the brakes have been gone through.

The under-dash 8-track player may be this Mustang’s saving grace! There’s even a collection of 8-tracks to go with it! In all honesty, the interior doesn’t look bad. There’s a tear in the driver’s seat but everything appears to be there and in decent shape. The automatic transmission is claimed to shift fine and it sounds like the engine runs well.

The five-spoke rims may not be everyone but I think they look pretty good on this Mustang. If this were my Mach 1, I’d get some color match spray paint and attempt to cover up the primed areas as best I could. Hopefully a good buffing would bring back the rest of the paint a bit. Then I would drive the car while making a plan to attack the rust. What do you think, would you daily drive it?
Have something to sell? List it here on Barn Finds!

More: Ford / Mustang




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