Unveiling the Quintessential Family Cruiser: The 1960 Ford Country Squire

The 1960 Ford Country Squire was not just a car; it was the embodiment of American family adventure during an era of optimism. Born from the esteemed Ford Motor Company, this station wagon was a symbol of suburban affluence, offering a blend of utility and style that captured the heart of the 1960s. Its woodgrain side panels were as iconic as the fins on a Cadillac, making it an unmistakable presence on the road. A notable moment in its history was when it became synonymous with cross-country family road trips, etching its image into the American cultural landscape.

Design and Innovation: A Blend of Utility and Elegance

The exterior of the 1960 Ford Country Squire was a harmonious mix of function and flair. Its signature 'wood' trim – actually a wood-like vinyl applique – adorned the sides, giving it a touch of class that set it apart from less adorned wagons. Inside, passengers were greeted with a spacious and comfortable cabin, where attention to detail and quality materials spoke to Ford's commitment to craftsmanship. Technological features such as electric tailgate windows were cutting-edge for the time, adding convenience to the vehicle's practicality. Color options ranged from Corinthian White to Monte Carlo Red, with Colonial White being a particularly popular choice among families. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the four-door wagon, complete with rear-facing third-row seats that made every trip an adventure for young passengers.

Historical Significance: More Than Just a Wagon

The 1960 Ford Country Squire's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It elevated the station wagon from a mere utilitarian vehicle to a stylish family accessory. It set itself apart with its 'Magic Door Gate,' which allowed the tailgate to both fold down and swing open – a feature that would become standard in future wagons. This innovation showcased Ford's commitment to improving user experience through thoughtful design.

Performance and Handling: A Smooth Operator on Any Road

Underneath its genteel exterior, the Country Squire was no slouch in performance. Equipped with a range of engines, including a robust V8 option, it offered respectable top speeds and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in figures that were competitive for its class at the time. The ride quality was smooth, absorbing bumps with ease thanks to its soft suspension setup, making long journeys less taxing on occupants. Drivers enjoyed the V8's throaty rumble, adding an unexpected sporty character to this family hauler.

Ownership Experience: Versatility at Its Core

The 1960 Ford Country Squire served many roles – from daily driver to vacation vehicle, and occasionally even as an impromptu cargo hauler thanks to its generous interior space. Maintenance was straightforward by modern standards, making it accessible for average owners to keep their wagons running smoothly. Reliability was one of its strong suits, fostering loyalty among families who often passed down their beloved Squires through generations.

Fun Facts: A Wagon of Many Stories

This classic wagon has been owned by celebrities and featured in countless films and TV shows, further cementing its place in pop culture. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set benchmarks for sales in the station wagon market segment. Criticisms were few but included remarks about its size in urban environments – yet even these comments underscored its status as an all-American symbol of prosperity.

Collector's Information: A Cherished Classic

Today, the 1960 Ford Country Squire holds a special place in collectors' hearts. With production numbers in the tens of thousands, it is moderately rare but still accessible for enthusiasts looking to own a piece of Americana. Values have steadily appreciated over time as nostalgia fuels demand; pristine examples can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 depending on provenance and condition.

Conclusion: The Legacy of the Family Wagon

The 1960 Ford Country Squire is more than just a classic car; it's a rolling testament to an era when cars were as much about lifestyle as they were about transportation. It remains an enduring symbol of American culture and automotive history – a true classic that continues to evoke fond memories and inspire collectors around the world.

1960 Ford Country Squire Suspension Ball Joint Dust Seal. 3/4" top I.D-BN 101-BSuspension Ball Joint Dust Seal. 3/4" top I.D., 1-11/16" bottom O.D., 3/4" high. For some rare models. Check dimensions against original. Each

1960 Ford Country Squire Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high-BN 12Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high., with 3/4" I.D. Each

1960 Ford Country Squire Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D-BN 20Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D. X 1-5/8" high, with 9/16" I.D. Each

1960 Ford Country Squire Front Stabilizer Bar Bushings. Made of hard rubber-BN 32-BFront Stabilizer Bar Bushings. Made of hard rubber. 1-5/8" long X 1-7/8" wide X 1-5/8" high. Pair

1960 Ford Country Squire Stabilizer Bar Bushings-BN 32-DStabilizer Bar Bushings. 1-9/16" long X 1-1/2" wide X 1-5/8" high, 15/16" I.D. Pair

1960 Ford Country Squire Door, Hood and Trunk Bumper Cap for adjustment bolt-HA 6Door, Hood and Trunk Bumper Cap for adjustment bolt. 1-1/16" O.D. X 1/2" I.D. X 7/16" thick. Each

1960 Ford Country Squire Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each-HF 40Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each

1960 Ford Country Squire Generator Boot. Replaces OEM #C1AZ10170B-RP 2-FGenerator Boot. Replaces OEM #C1AZ10170B. Note: Notch may have to be cut by purchaser. Each

1960 Ford Country Squire Inlet Box Bellows. Fresh air duct to heater-RP 300-HInlet Box Bellows. Fresh air duct to heater. Made of PVC with lower steel core and wire clamp. 7" wide X 9-1/4" long. Each

1960 Ford Country Squire

1960 Ford Country Squire Hood Bumper. Snap-in wire base like original. Each-SB 89-AHood Bumper. Snap-in wire base like original. Each

1960 Ford Country Squire Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track-VS 4Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track. this foot with no steel insert. Pair

1960 Ford Country Squire Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long-VS 6Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long. Pair

1960 Ford Country Squire Vertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.-VS 6/FTVertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.

1960 Ford Country Squire Vertical Vent Seals-VS 6-DVertical Vent Seals. Fits 2 & 4 door sedans and station wagons. Pair

1960 Ford Country Squire Rigid division-bar channel-WC 28-96Rigid division-bar channel. Made with stainless steel bead, heavy steel core and pile lining. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1960 Ford Country Squire Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 7-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.