We’ve long been Ford Galaxie fans, especially when they’re as tough as Erik Murphy’s 1966 convertible. While walking around the NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville this summer, we were drawn to the deep maroon droptop.
Erik’s Ford is an exercise in restraint. It’s a prime example of why these cars don’t need a whole lot to be transformed into sanitary street machines. Erik is no stranger to hot rods. Long before the Galaxie, he racked up plenty of miles in his chopped, hoodless 1939 Ford coupe.
All of Erik’s projects are well-detailed, and his latest is no exception. Inspired by Ford’s Holman & Moody prepped NASCAR entries of the 1960s, his Galaxie sits low and has plenty of blue oval power beneath the hood.
So what is it that makes this car stand out? Is it the clean bodywork, rich color and mild-de badging? The upgraded 460 power? Or what about the subtle details, like the 1966 Ohio license plates and the vintage Indianapolis Motor Speedway decal in the front vent window? Although everyone may have their own answers, we are partial to the wheels, tires and Ridetech-equipped stance. Gloss black 15-inch steelies paired with wide goldline tires lend an unmistakable ’60s competition flavor.
It comes as no surprise that Erik built his Ford to drive. When we saw it at the Nationals, he had just finished a trip with his family from their home in Cincinnati to Louisville, and they were all smiles. We can’t wait to hear about where the road takes them next.
Click the video below to take a closer look at Erik Murphy’s 1966 Galaxie.
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