The 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 owned by Bill and Steph Pratt is nearly impossible to miss. Styling lines of Fords in this era are unmistakable and striking. But just in case your eyes have taken the day off, chances are good that Bill is treating everyone within earshot to the distinctive roar of its vintage and uncorked 427 center oiler. 

The Ford 427 is a potent power plant in its basic configuration. However the Pratt’s thunder producing V-8 is not stuck in stock trim. It’s been freshened and equipped with a Crower solid lifter cam, 11:1 compression ratio, Edelbrock medium riser heads with Manley valves and the aluminum intake is fed by two 600 CFM Holley carburetors. The transmission is a beefy top loader 4-speed connected to the engine via a Centerforce clutch. A Ford 9 inch rear end with a final drive gear of 3.70:1 pushes the Galaxie 500 along at a rapid clip. 

This Galaxie is not only a big performer but a sure eye catcher as well. The exterior is shot in a radiant yellow Pearl color that echoes the yellow hue used by FoMoCo during the early and mid 60’s. But the modern formula gives the Galaxie’s appearance that 21st century wow factor. Traditional style American mag wheels reside on all four corners, and a “teardrop” hood scoop completes the look of a slightly updated 60‘s Ford Factory Super Stocker

The interior keeps its early 60’s style sensibilities with custom tweed upholstery on the front and rear bench seats and door panels.  The steering wheel, door handles and armrests are all stock and true to the period and the unpadded metal dash is sprayed to match the exterior color.  There are no power options other than the big horsepower engine included on this rare example of elegant muscle. However, air-conditioning was added to the package to keep the driver and passengers comfortable during summertime cruises.

Conversation with Bill revealed that he is huge fan of the sound and power of Ford’s 427 motor. He is always happy to tell spectators how the big Fords have a distinctive sound that no other manufacturer can duplicate and then fire up his vintage monster sans mufflers to prove his point. Then displaying the enthusiasm of a teenager, he loads folks up in the car and is off participating in every open header cruise he can find! Pure joy in ownership doesn’t get any better than that!