What Colors Did the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback Come In?

The 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback was more than just a car; it was a statement piece from Ford, capturing the boldness and style of the late 1960s. As one of the most iconic models in the Galaxie series, it offered a combination of power and aesthetic appeal that made it stand out. But aside from its performance and design, a frequently asked question by enthusiasts is: “What color did the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback come in?” The answer to this question reveals a fascinating range of color choices that mirrored the vibrant spirit of the era. Let’s dive into the color options and discover how they added to the car’s legacy.

Original Colors of the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback

Color Name	Color Code	Description	Popularity Among Collectors
Wimbledon White	M	Classic white with a clean look	High
Candyapple Red	T	Bold, vibrant red	Very High
Highland Green	R	Deep, forest green	Very High
Gulfstream Aqua	B	Light, bright aqua shade	Moderate
Presidential Blue	X	Dark, rich blue	Moderate
Lime Gold	I	Unique, light green-gold	High
Raven Black	A	Sleek black	High
Seafoam Green	G	Soft, pastel green	Low
Meadowlark Yellow	Y	Bright yellow	Moderate
Royal Maroon	M2	Dark, rich maroon	Moderate

Overview of the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback

The 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback was part of Ford’s strategy to provide a stylish, powerful car that could rival the best of the era. With its sleek fastback design, the Galaxie 500 was both aerodynamic and aesthetically pleasing, appealing to car buyers looking for a blend of performance and luxury. The car came equipped with powerful V8 engine options, offering the kind of muscle that became synonymous with American automotive culture. The range of colors available further amplified the car’s appeal, giving each model a unique personality and helping to define the classic look associated with this vehicle.

Color Options Available for the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback

When answering the question, “What color did the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback come in?” it’s essential to note that Ford provided an array of captivating color options. Some of the most popular shades included Wimbledon White, a classic and clean choice, and Candyapple Red, a vibrant color that turned heads. Other color options like Highland Green and Gulfstream Aqua gave buyers a chance to choose something unique, adding to the car’s custom feel. Ford even offered darker colors such as Presidential Blue and Raven Black, perfect for those wanting a more refined, elegant appearance. These colors weren’t just random selections; they were carefully chosen to appeal to a wide range of tastes, ensuring the Galaxie 500 would have something for everyone.

How Color Choices Reflected 1960s Trends

The color palette available for the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback wasn’t just about aesthetics; it reflected broader cultural trends of the 1960s. During this era, car manufacturers increasingly leaned towards vibrant, bold colors, aiming to make their vehicles as eye-catching as possible. Shades like Candyapple Red and Lime Gold weren’t just popular choices—they were statements that aligned with the cultural shift towards individuality and expression. Ford tapped into these trends by offering a color selection that matched the evolving tastes of the time, allowing the Galaxie 500 to be both a stylish and culturally relevant vehicle.

Most Iconic Colors for Collectors Today

Today, certain colors of the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback have become particularly prized among collectors. Candyapple Red remains a favorite for its bold, timeless appeal, often associated with the classic muscle car look. Similarly, Highland Green is highly sought after, with its deep, rich tone offering a distinctive appearance that stands out at car shows. For those looking for a more understated option, Wimbledon White and Raven Black are also iconic choices that retain their allure. For collectors, owning a Galaxie 500 in one of these original colors enhances both its visual appeal and market value, making it a worthwhile investment.

Restoring the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback’s Original Colors

For enthusiasts and collectors interested in restoring a 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback, maintaining its original color is essential for authenticity. Many choose to restore their vehicles using Ford’s original paint codes, ensuring that the vehicle looks as close to its 1968 version as possible. Fortunately, resources like color-matching services make it easier to replicate these classic shades, whether it’s Presidential Blue or Lime Gold. Proper restoration also involves using high-quality paint to prevent fading and maintain the car’s luster over time, preserving the vehicle’s historical integrity for future generations.

Ford’s Color Codes and Production Variations

Ford used specific color codes to identify the shades used on the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback, with each color code representing a unique paint option. Codes like M for Wimbledon White and T for Candyapple Red were widely recognized. These codes are essential for restoration as they help maintain the car’s authenticity.

Interestingly, Ford also introduced minor variations in paint application depending on the factory where the car was assembled. This practice meant that some Galaxie models had slightly different finishes or tones based on production location, adding to the uniqueness of each vehicle.

The Impact of Color on the Galaxie 500’s Resale Value

Colors like Candyapple Red and Highland Green have historically held high resale value, largely due to their popularity and rarity among collectors. Vehicles in these original colors often fetch a premium in the classic car market, especially if the paint is well-preserved or authentically restored.

While all original colors are desirable, certain shades resonate more with collectors, enhancing a car’s market value. Colors that align with the muscle car image, like bold reds and deep greens, tend to be especially sought after.

Popular Custom Colors and Modifications

While many enthusiasts prefer the original paint, some choose custom colors to make their 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback truly unique. Metallic shades or two-tone paint jobs are popular custom choices that reflect a modern twist on a classic.

Modifying the color can be controversial among purists, but it allows owners to personalize their vehicles. However, those interested in maintaining the car’s value are often advised to keep to the original paint codes, as custom colors may reduce collector interest.

Caring for the 1968 Galaxie 500’s Classic Paint

Maintaining a vintage car’s paint can be challenging, especially for models like the Galaxie 500. To preserve the paint’s original luster, owners often use waxes and UV-protective products that prevent fading. Regular detailing and washing with gentle, non-abrasive products also help in keeping the paint intact.

For those restoring the vehicle, selecting high-quality paint products is crucial, as modern paints can replicate the original colors while providing added durability.

Color Significance in the Classic Car Community

Colors of classic cars like the Galaxie 500 Fastback have special meanings within the collector community. Owning a Candyapple Red or Highland Green Galaxie is a point of pride and often sparks conversations at car shows, as these colors are iconic.

Different shades also convey various aspects of car culture from the 1960s. For example, Royal Maroon and Lime Gold are bold choices that represent the adventurous spirit of that time, while Raven Black and Presidential Blue exude a classic sophistication.

Rarity of Specific Colors in the Market

Certain colors of the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback are harder to find today, making them rare and highly collectible. Colors like Gulfstream Aqua and Seafoam Green are less common, as fewer models were produced in these shades. Consequently, vehicles in these colors often attract dedicated collectors.

Rarity can significantly affect a vehicle’s value. A well-preserved Galaxie 500 in a rare color could sell for substantially more than one in a more common color, emphasizing the importance of color in classic car collecting.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to “What color did the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback come in?” offers a glimpse into the rich history and character of this iconic car. From the bold Candyapple Red to the timeless Wimbledon White, each color choice added to the vehicle’s personality and appeal. These colors not only mirrored the cultural trends of the 1960s but also contributed to the car’s lasting legacy among enthusiasts and collectors. For anyone lucky enough to own or restore a 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback, preserving its original color is a way to honor its place in automotive history.