The 1968 Ford Galaxie 500 Fastback is an iconic vehicle from the 1960s, known for its sleek design and powerful performance. One of the most attractive aspects of classic cars like the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback is the variety of custom color options available.

During the 1960s, car manufacturers offered a wide range of factory colors, but many owners also opted for custom paint jobs to make their vehicles stand out on the road. Let's explore the color options for the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback, along with some of the most popular custom trends of the era.

Factory Color Options

Before diving into custom colors, it’s essential to know the factory color choices for the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback. If you’ve ever wondered, what color did 1968 Galaxie 500 fastbacks come in, here’s the answer. Ford offered a variety of paint colors to suit different tastes. Some of the most popular factory color options included:

1. Wimbledon White – A classic and clean white that gave the Galaxie a timeless, elegant look.
2. Rangoon Red – This bold red was a favorite for muscle cars, adding a sporty and aggressive feel to the Fastback.
3. Black Jade – A deep, dark green that gave the car a mysterious and powerful appearance.
4. Candyapple Red – This bright, eye-catching red was perfect for those looking to make a statement.
5. Diamond Blue – A softer, more subtle blue that added a refined touch to the Galaxie’s design.
6. Acapulco Blue – Another popular blue, but with a more vibrant tone for those who wanted something bold.
7. Lime Gold – A unique greenish-gold color that made the Galaxie stand out from the crowd.

Custom Color Trends

While factory colors were popular, many 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback owners chose to customize their car’s color. Custom paint jobs were a way for owners to express their personality and make their vehicle truly unique. In the 1960s, custom colors were often influenced by emerging trends in fashion, music, and culture. Here are a few notable trends that shaped the custom color scene:

1. Metallic Finishes
   Metallic paint was all the rage in the 1960s. Many owners opted for metallic finishes to give their Galaxie a flashy, modern look. Popular choices included metallic blues, silvers, and even golds. These finishes sparkled in the sunlight and made the car stand out.

2. Two-Tone Paint Jobs
   Another trend that gained popularity was the two-tone paint job. This involved painting the body of the car one color and the roof another, or using complementary colors for different sections of the car. The combination of two colors gave the car a distinctive and stylish appearance.

3. Pearlescent Paint
   Pearlescent paints, which shift colors depending on the angle of the light, became a trendy option for customizers in the late 1960s. These paints added an extra dimension to the car’s finish and made it look even more dynamic on the road.

4. Pastel Colors
   The 1960s saw a rise in the use of pastel colors in both fashion and automotive design. Customizers started applying pastel shades like light pink, baby blue, and mint green to their vehicles, giving them a softer and more retro look.

Choosing the Right Color for Your Galaxie

If you’re restoring a 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback, choosing the right color is one of the most critical decisions you'll make. While sticking with a factory color option can help maintain the car's original charm, opting for a custom color can give your car a unique and personal touch. When deciding on a custom color, consider the following:

• Resale Value: While custom colors can make your car stand out, factory colors are often more appealing to collectors, so they may help preserve or even boost the car’s resale value.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, the color of your car should reflect your style and personality. Whether you choose a bold metallic finish or a subtle pastel shade, make sure it’s something you’ll love.
• Historical Accuracy: If you’re aiming to keep the restoration as true to the original as possible, researching popular color trends from the late 1960s can help you pick a historically accurate custom color.

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer classic factory colors or want to create a custom look, the 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback is a car that shines in any hue. Its sleek design, combined with the perfect color choice, makes it a true showstopper. For those who love vintage cars, the ability to customize the color of your Galaxie is just another way to make this iconic muscle car your own.

If you're interested in learning more about the color possibilities for your 1968 Galaxie 500 Fastback, don't hesitate to dive into restoration communities or speak with classic car experts.