FORD FAIRLANE/LTD ZA-ZH

FOUR CHANGES of shape in the space of 10 years, plus some serious weight gains didn’t harm the local Fairlane’s ability to gain and retain customers; many of whom would be emulating its expanding beltline.

 

These rusted-on buyers were generally male and middle aged. Many would be selfemployed, often driving big distances with scant regard for fuel economy but demanding a comfortable and uncomplicated car.

The Fairlane for most of its first decade came with the option of a six-cylinder engine, but not many sold and few of the Custom version survive. The Fairlane 500 was built around a V8 engine; in the case of the US-inspired ZA-ZB a 4.7 or 4.9litre. Then from 1969 until the early 1980s a 5.8-litre, 351 cubic inch motor was also available.