Ford Fairlane
In my little experience exploring Cleveland, I’ve passed this car three times. On each occasion, I’m shocked that it’s still sitting there, hasn’t been grossly vandalized, and most of the vehicle is still intact. However, my experiences in Detroit might affect my outlook on other cities in the rust belt. In the Motor City, if something is left long enough, there’s typically at least a drop or two of spray paint on it.
I think this is a fourth-gen Ford Fairlane, but if I’m honest, I don’t know a ton about Ford cars. Growing up with many family members working for General Motors and related companies like AC Sparkplug, Ford always stood for ‘Found On Road Dead.’ Although I have no quarrel with non-GM cars, by coincidence, I’ve never owned a vehicle that General Motors didn’t produce.
Considering this car’s location, I’d guess it might have rolled off the line at Ford’s Lorain assembly plant, a short drive from where I shot these photographs. I don’t think the blue paint job is original, but it catches your eye. Perhaps that’s why this dealership had it sitting out before it closed. Why it’s still sitting there, I can’t imagine.
Hopefully, I’ll be able to check in on this Ford on my next trip to Cleveland!
