Favorite car commercial: 1960 Ford
Man, they don’t do commercials like this anymore. Automakers also don’t spend money to herald the arrival of new models for the year. We live in the age of targeted marketing and micro advertising. The percentage of consumers today who see ads for products they may not want—or cannot afford—is relatively low. Modern advertisers know who we are and where we live.
Favorite car commercial: 1960 Ford
But man, this isn’t always the case. Take, for example, the glorious three-minute Ford masterpiece shared below. This ad, which appeared as part of television shows in 1959 and 1960, is distinctly Disney. By all means, watch the ad before reading further.
I am most interested in the people in evening gowns waiting for the arrival of brand new Fords falling from the sky. Other than that, I’m impressed that not a single party-goer seemed worried about being crushed by an aerial Ford.
As silly and wonderful as this ad is, there are two very important tidbits here. First, for the first time, Ford’s entire full-size lineup shares one name: the Galaxie. Second, Ford’s first small car, the Falcon, made its debut in this ad.
It is likely that the large Fords have been given a unique line name to avoid confusion with the new Falcon line. In addition, the Note, Thunderbird, which will be redesigned for 1961, is displayed exclusively from the rear, the most distinctive angle of the vehicle.
Favorite car commercial: 1949 Ford
The fully choreographed soundtrack for this ad is also a prank. Listen to the lyrics and you will learn:
- These cars are “…the best new Fords ever.”
- Thunderbird is “…the best car.”
- And the Falcon is “…the easiest new car to own in the world.”
On a personal note, I really doubt the wealthy-looking people depicted in this ad are in any way interested in the Falcon. Even in this ad, the car looks like a special price, with white painted wheels and black tires. Unless, some of these partygoers are looking for a third car for the kids.
Favorite car commercial: Ford Mustang II 1976
For more fun with a tuxedo and evening gown New Year ad, check out this awesome ad that appeared on You bet your life with Groucho Marx at the end of 1957. Celebrities are no longer in this class.
Listen to the Car Stuff Podcast Consumer Guide
Favorite car commercial: 1960 Ford
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Favorite car commercial: 1960 Ford
Favorite car commercial: 1960 Ford
The Car Stuff Podcast Consumer’s Guide, Episode 154: Driving Pointers on Ice; Best Car Movies
