The 1967 Ford Fairlane 500 stands as a premier example of mid-sized American muscle, but Lot V220 at the Tulsa 2026 auction elevates the platform into the realm of custom artistry. Built by the legendary Starbird, this specific hardtop represents a meticulous fusion of period-correct silhouette and modern material finishing. Draped in deep Candy Apple Red paint, the vehicle sheds its traditional brightwork in favor of a contemporary, high-tech aesthetic. It remains a purely steel creation, eschewing fiberglass to maintain the structural integrity and authentic feel of a true sixties heavyweight.
Carbon Fiber Accents and Hand-Formed Steel
The exterior of this custom build is a study in visual texture and precision metalwork. In a bold departure from factory styling, every piece of original chrome trim has been carbon fiber dipped, providing a dark, patterned contrast against the vibrant red bodywork. The front and rear bumpers have been replaced with custom steel roll pan units, tightening the car’s profile and emphasizing its low, aggressive stance. Riding on custom Cragar wheels, the Fairlane retains its iconic stacked-headlight face while appearing significantly more modern than its production counterparts.
Refined Two-Tone Red and White Cabin
Inside, the interior has been completely revitalized to match the striking exterior palette. The cabin features brand-new upholstery and carpeting, executed in a clean Red and White color scheme that stays faithful to the Fairlane’s upscale 500-trim roots. A fresh headliner completes the overhead space, ensuring the cockpit feels as new as it looks. The environment balances the tactile nature of vintage controls with the freshness of modern materials, providing a comfortable and stylish vantage point for enjoying the Windsor-powered performance under the hood.
Windsor Power and Flowmaster Resonance
At the heart of this Fairlane is a 351 CI Windsor V8 engine, heavily modified for increased breathing and durability. The small-block has been enhanced with forged pistons and high-flow aluminum heads, supported by an upgraded larger camshaft for a more aggressive idle and power band. Fuel delivery is handled by a 650 CFM Holley carburetor sitting atop a performance intake. Exhaling through headers and a Flowmaster exhaust system, the V8 provides a deep, authoritative rumble that matches its custom appearance while delivering reliable power to the rear wheels via an automatic transmission.
| Feature / Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 351 CI Windsor V8 |
| Induction | 650 CFM Holley Carburetor |
| Internal Upgrades | Forged Pistons / Aluminum Heads |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Exhaust System | Flowmaster with Headers |
| Braking System | Front Disc Brakes |
| Trim Finish | Carbon Fiber Dipped Chrome |
| Body Construction | All Steel (No Fiberglass) |
| Bumpers | Steel Roll Pan Front/Rear |
| Wheels | Custom Cragar |
| Exterior Color | Candy Apple Red |
| Interior Color | Red and White |
Engineered Control and Modernized Stopping
While the Fairlane 500 was originally built for straight-line cruising, this Starbird custom features several mechanical upgrades to improve modern drivability. The installation of front disc brakes provides much-needed stopping power and fade resistance compared to the original four-wheel drum setup. These electronic and mechanical aids, combined with the wider footprint of the Cragar wheels and modern tire compounds, allow the driver to navigate today’s traffic with confidence. The car maintains its classic mechanical soul while benefiting from the precision of modern aftermarket engineering.
Auction Significance and Custom Value
As Lot V220 prepares to cross the block on Saturday, June 6th, it presents a unique opportunity for collectors who value name-brand custom heritage. The Starbird name carries significant weight in the custom car community, and his touch on a 1967 Ford Fairlane 500 adds a layer of provenance that a standard restoration cannot match. Because the build utilizes all-steel components and a popular Windsor powertrain, it represents a durable investment that is as ready for the local show circuit as it is for high-speed coastal cruising.
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Source: mecum.com
