The Best Years For Ford Country Squire And Some To Avoid

The Ford Country Squire, a name synonymous with classic American station wagons, evokes images of family road trips and a bygone era of automotive design. Finding the right year of Country Squire can be a rewarding experience, offering a blend of vintage charm, practicality, and potential collectibility. This guide aims to help you navigate the model years, highlighting the best examples and those to approach with caution.

Ford Country Squire: A Generational Overview

The Country Squire spanned multiple generations, each with its unique features, strengths, and weaknesses. Understanding these nuances is crucial for making an informed decision.

Detailed Explanations of Model Year Ranges

1950-1951 (Woody): These early Country Squires are highly sought after by collectors due to their distinctive woodgrain trim, a hallmark of the "Woody" era. They were powered by the reliable Flathead V8 engine, but finding parts and skilled mechanics familiar with these older systems can be challenging. Wood rot is a major concern, and restoration costs can be significant.

1952-1954: These models marked a significant shift to all-steel body construction, offering increased durability and reduced maintenance compared to the earlier wood-bodied versions. The introduction of overhead valve engines provided improved performance. However, rust is still a prevalent issue, particularly in areas prone to moisture. Early automatic transmissions could also exhibit problems.

1955-1956: These years saw updated styling and the introduction of higher horsepower engines, enhancing the driving experience. However, like previous generations, rust remains a significant concern. Electrical problems were also relatively common in these models.

1957-1959: These Country Squires featured quad headlights and larger dimensions, reflecting the automotive trends of the late 1950s. The styling was heavily influenced by the Edsel, Ford's ill-fated attempt at a new brand. These years are often considered less desirable due to rust issues, complex vacuum systems, and overall reliability concerns, especially the 1958 and 1959 models.

1960-1964: This generation adopted unit-body construction, resulting in cleaner lines and improved structural rigidity. However, rust remains a major problem, particularly around suspension mounting points. The unit-body design, while innovative, could also be susceptible to body flex over time.

1965-1968: These Country Squires were built on a full-size platform, offering ample interior space and powerful V8 engine options. They provided a comfortable ride and were well-equipped for family travel. Rust is still a concern, and later years in this range may suffer from smog equipment issues. Deteriorating interior trim is also a common problem.

1969-1972: These are the longest Country Squires ever produced, offering cavernous interiors. Some models featured hidden headlights, adding to their distinctive styling. However, their sheer size can make them cumbersome to drive and park. Fuel economy is also poor, and rust remains a significant issue.

1973-1978: These Country Squires are characterized by their massive dimensions, energy-absorbing bumpers, and the introduction of catalytic converters to meet increasingly stringent emissions regulations. Fuel economy is abysmal, and the complex emissions controls can be problematic. Rust is still a concern, and sagging headliners are a common issue due to the car's age.

1979-1991: This generation saw a downsized platform (except for the '79 model), resulting in improved fuel economy compared to earlier models. However, rust remains a concern, and early years may suffer from electronic engine control issues. Deteriorating interior trim is also a common problem.

The "Best" Years: A Deeper Dive

While personal preference plays a role, some years consistently stand out as more desirable than others:

• 1965-1967: These years represent a sweet spot in terms of styling, performance, and reliability. They offer a classic look, powerful V8 engines, and a comfortable ride. Rust is still a concern, but generally less so than earlier models.
• 1970-1972: If you need maximum interior space, these years are hard to beat. They offer a distinctive look with their hidden headlights (on some models) and a smooth, comfortable ride. Be prepared for poor fuel economy and potential rust issues.
• 1987-1991: These later models offer a more modern driving experience with improved fuel economy and reliability compared to earlier generations. They are also generally easier to find in good condition. However, they lack the classic styling of earlier Country Squires.

Years to Approach with Caution

• 1957-1959: These years are often plagued by rust, complex vacuum systems, and overall reliability issues. Unless you're a skilled mechanic or have deep pockets for repairs, it's best to avoid them.
• 1973-1978: The massive dimensions and poor fuel economy of these years make them less practical for modern use. The complex emissions controls can also be problematic.
• Any Rusty Example: Regardless of the year, a Country Squire with significant rust should be approached with extreme caution. Rust repair can be expensive and time-consuming.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Country Squire

Beyond the specific model year, several other factors should influence your decision:

• Condition: The overall condition of the vehicle is paramount. Look for examples that have been well-maintained and have minimal rust.
• Mileage: Lower mileage examples are generally more desirable, but don't be afraid of higher mileage cars if they have been well-maintained.
• Originality: Original, unrestored examples are often more valuable to collectors. However, modified cars can be more practical for everyday use.
• Engine and Transmission: Ensure the engine and transmission are in good working order. Have them inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.
• Documentation: Maintenance records and original paperwork can provide valuable insights into the car's history.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What's the most collectible Country Squire? Early "Woody" models (1950-1951) are the most collectible due to their rarity and distinctive styling.

• Which Country Squire is the most reliable? Later models (1987-1991) tend to be more reliable due to advancements in automotive technology.

• What should I look for when inspecting a Country Squire? Rust is the biggest concern. Also, check the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.

• How much does a Country Squire cost? Prices vary widely depending on the year, condition, and originality. Expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 or more.

• Where can I find parts for a Country Squire? Many online retailers and specialty shops offer parts for classic Ford vehicles.

Conclusion

Choosing the "best" year for a Ford Country Squire depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as styling, reliability, practicality, and budget. Remember to thoroughly inspect any potential purchase for rust and mechanical issues before making a commitment.