Image of 1960 Ford Starliner, sourced from en.wikipedia.org , Image Link.

Unveiling the Elegance of the 1960 Ford Starliner

The 1960 Ford Starliner stands as a testament to American automotive ingenuity, a sleek embodiment of the era's optimism and forward-thinking design. Born from the ambitious minds at Ford Motor Company, this model was introduced to showcase both style and substance during an age when cars were more than just transportation; they were statements. The Starliner, with its unique blend of luxury and performance, carved out a special place in automotive history, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Design and Innovation

The Starliner's exterior is a symphony of chrome and curves, with a long, low silhouette that epitomizes the space-age aesthetic of the early '60s. Its distinctive roofline, tapering gracefully towards the rear, was not only stylish but also contributed to the vehicle's aerodynamic prowess. Inside, passengers were greeted with an interior that exuded comfort and class. High-quality materials adorned the cabin, from plush seating surfaces to elegant trim accents. Technologically advanced for its time, the Starliner featured innovations such as an optional Cruise-O-Matic transmission and power-operated features that added a touch of modern convenience.

Available in a palette of period-appropriate colors, including Monte Carlo Red and Corinthian White, the Starliner allowed buyers to express their personal style. While several body styles were offered across Ford's full-size range, it was the two-door hardtop Starliner that turned heads and became emblematic of this model's allure.

Historical Significance

The 1960 Ford Starliner didn't just mirror contemporary trends; it influenced them. Its design language spoke to an era where cars began to reflect America's fascination with jet travel and space exploration. The Starliner set itself apart with its combination of luxury appointments and sporty demeanor—a precursor to the muscle cars that would dominate later in the decade. Its legacy is evident in how it paved the way for performance-oriented full-size coupes that followed.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior lay a heart of power—the available high-performance 360 horsepower 352 cubic inch V8 engine propelled the Starliner from 0-60 mph with authority. The top speed was impressive for its class, while handling was enhanced by Ford's attention to suspension tuning and weight distribution. Driving a Starliner meant experiencing a symphony of engine roars and smooth acceleration, all while navigating turns with confidence.

Ownership Experience

The 1960 Ford Starliner was versatile enough to serve as a daily driver or take center stage at car shows. Its reliability was commendable for its time, though current owners should expect maintenance consistent with vehicles of this vintage. Parts availability is generally good due to shared components with other Ford models from that era.

Fun Facts

The Starliner holds a special place in pop culture and automotive lore alike. Rare editions like those equipped with the "Police Interceptor" engine package are highly sought after. Celebrity connections and appearances in films have only added to its mystique. While some critics may have pointed out its size or fuel consumption, these aspects are now considered part of its classic charm.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1960 Ford Starliner is a cherished collector's item with values that reflect its desirability. While production numbers were significant—estimates suggest over 68,000 units—surviving examples in pristine condition are much rarer. Prices can vary widely based on condition and originality but expect well-maintained models to fetch anywhere from $20,000 to upwards of $60,000 or more at auction.

Conclusion

The 1960 Ford Starliner remains an iconic representation of American automotive culture at its zenith. It is a vehicle that offers not just a glimpse into the past but also an enduring legacy that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. As we look back on this gleaming jewel of yesteryear, we're reminded that some classics never go out of style—they just get better with age.

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

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

1960 Ford Starliner 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 Starliner

1960 Ford Starliner Brake Booster Boot. Each-RP 32-AABrake Booster Boot. Each

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

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

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

1960 Ford Starliner 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 Starliner 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.