The Ford 300 isn’t exactly the first nameplate that comes to mind when discussing Blue Oval performance cars from the 1960s. Created as an inexpensive, stripped-down full-size model, it was considerably less glamorous than the Galaxie sitting above it.
There was, however, an interesting loophole in the 300’s economy-car formula. Buyers could order Ford’s unassuming sedan with some seriously potent hardware under the hood.
That brings us to the black 1963 Ford 300 heading to Mecum’s Nashville auction on September 26. It’s a genuine factory R-Code example, making it an exceptionally rare combination of bare-bones sedan and big-block muscle.
Mecum says approximately 50 R-Code Ford 300 sedans were built, while this particular car is listed in the R-Code Registry as one of only three registered examples known to exist. Its mechanical specification has changed considerably since leaving the factory, though.
A Sleeper Straight From Ford
The 300 was introduced for 1963 as an entry-level alternative to the Galaxie, with minimal brightwork and a deliberately basic cabin. That made it appealing to fleet customers, but its relatively light, no-frills specification also gave it potential as a performance platform.
R-Code buyers received Ford’s formidable 427-cubic-inch FE V8 with dual four-barrel carburetors. The factory engine was rated at 425 hp, turning an otherwise ordinary-looking Ford into a formidable sleeper.
The 427 Is Now A 482
This example no longer has a factory-specification 427. According to Mecum, the V8 has been professionally enlarged to 482 cubic inches and fitted with a Medium Riser FE intake manifold and dual four-barrel carburetors.
Power is sent through a Toploader four-speed manual transmission to a Ford nine-inch rear end. A nodular differential case, Detroit Locker, and 31-spline Moser axles further indicate that this isn’t simply a museum piece intended to look pretty.
You’d Never Guess By Looking At It
Visually, the 300 remains remarkably understated. Black paint is paired with color-matched steel wheels and small hubcaps, while the tan cabin features a split bench seat and a Sun Super Tach II.
There are no flashy stripes, aggressive body kits, or enormous wheels announcing what’s hiding underneath, and that is a major part of this Ford’s appeal.
Heading To Auction
Mecum will offer the R-Code 300 as Lot S287 at its Nashville 2026 auction on Saturday, September 26. The auction house hasn’t provided an estimate in the supplied listing.
With an estimated 50 originally built and just three registered examples known to exist, it’s pretty much guaranteed that another one isn’t likely to appear around the corner. Add the built 482-cubic-inch V8 and four-speed manual, and this obscure Ford 300 has the ingredients to attract plenty of attention when it crosses the block.