47. 1959 Ford Galaxie
image courtesy of Barrett-JacksonA favorite of Elvis and Fidel Castro, this car is one that makes a statement when you drive it. Why else would the King of Rock and Roll and El Jefe Maximo consider it with such high regard? The answer is simple – it is class, beauty, and power combined. Introduced in 1958, it took over as the top trim level for the Fairlane 500. Ushering in almost a decade and a half of Galaxie models, the original set the bar sky high.
With signature 50’s style, the Galaxie was a chromed out two tone car. It was a beast of a machine that exuded Americana. With a 353 V-8 OHV engine, it had 300 HP. And at 2800 RPM it had 380 lbs./ft. of torque. This car may have not been the fastest or most powerful, but it was a forerunner in American muscle cars.
It’s main competition of the time was the batwing Chevy, which did indeed outsell it. But the Galaxie was a competitor, and Ford kept the competition neck and neck. With several trim levels, the Galaxie had options galore. The Galaxie Skyliner, which had a retractable hard top is a notably popular version.
With this much style, it is hard to miss on the streets. Couple the looks and power underneath this hood, and you have the definition of American muscle.
Engine: 353 V-8 OHV – Top speed: 121 mph –
Quarter mile time: 16.1 seconds – 0-60 mph time: 7.6 seconds