In the mid-1960s, a man from New York found his dreams of owning a 427 Cobra crushed when his soon-to-be ex-wife drained his savings and vanished. However, his determination to experience the power of a 427 engine didn’t waver. Instead of the pricey Cobra, he special-ordered a 1967 Ford Custom two-door sedan with a W-code 427-4V engine.
This decision made history, as the car became the only base-model Custom equipped with the W-code engine that year. While other full-size Fords featured 427 engines, they were either higher-trim models or used the R-code dual quad variant. Out of over 952,000 full-size Fords built in 1967, this singular Custom stands out.
Specifications and Features
The W-code 427-4V engine, at the heart of this unique Ford Custom, delivered an impressive 410 gross horsepower. It utilized a single Holley 780-cfm four-barrel carburetor and came paired with mandatory options: a four-speed gearbox and 15-inch nylon black wall tires. Together, these additions significantly increased the car’s price.
The original owner also added a personal touch with auxiliary instruments to monitor the car’s performance. A section of the radiator hose was replaced with Pyrex to observe coolant flow, showcasing the owner’s ingenuity. Additional upgrades included large fog lights on the bumper and a swapped distributor, making this car both functional and unique.
Decades of Neglect
Despite its exceptional build, the Ford Custom was driven sparingly by its owner, who parked it outdoors in upstate New York by the early 1990s. Exposure to harsh weather conditions for nearly 20 years caused significant rust and deterioration, particularly around the cowl and hood. However, the body remained remarkably straight, and the glass stayed pristine.
With only 15,000 miles on the odometer, the car’s mechanical components remained largely intact. Even so, the prolonged neglect posed challenges for anyone hoping to restore or preserve this rare vehicle.
Rescue and Partial Restoration
In 2011, Adrian Clements, a Ford enthusiast and founder of the 1967 Ford Full-Size Registry, discovered the car listed on Craigslist. Recognizing its rarity, he acquired it and worked to get the engine running by that summer. However, he opted not to undertake a full restoration, leaving the car largely in its original state.
During his ownership, Clements added only 1,000 miles to the odometer, bringing the total to just over 16,000 miles. His approach preserved the car’s authenticity, allowing future owners to appreciate its untouched charm and historical significance.
Preservation by Dan Jensen
In late 2023, Dan Jensen, a collector and co-founder of the Pure Stock Muscle Car Drag Race, learned about the Ford Custom. Despite the logistical challenges of inspecting the car, Jensen’s enthusiasm led to a deal with Clements, and the car became part of his collection.
Jensen’s preservation efforts focus on maintaining the car’s originality. The interior received minor refurbishments, including new carpeting and repairs to seat covers, but most elements, such as the dash and door panels, remain untouched. Jensen’s approach ensures that this rare Ford Custom stays true to its roots while remaining roadworthy.
Historical Significance
This 1967 Ford Custom stands as a testament to the ingenuity and passion of car enthusiasts. Its unique specifications and rich history make it an invaluable piece of automotive heritage. The car’s discovery and preservation underscore the importance of documenting and celebrating rare vehicles.
As one of only 29 full-size Fords with a 427 engine and the sole base-model Custom with a W-code, this car represents a remarkable chapter in Ford’s legacy. It also serves as a reminder that treasures like this are still waiting to be unearthed by those who appreciate their stories and significance.
