Highway Patrol

The 1961 Ford Fairlane Police Interceptor was part of Ford’s strategy to compete in the police fleet market by offering powerful V8 options in relatively light, midsize sedans.  The 1961 Fairlane Interceptor was part of the transition era in American police cars — lighter than the postwar tanks, but still muscular.  Ford’s use of the “Interceptor” branding predates the famous Crown Victoria Police Interceptor and was used as early as the 1950s.

The Fairlane was Ford’s full-size car until 1962, slotted below the top-tier Galaxie.  It was often used by police departments as a more affordable alternative to the heavier Galaxie, while still being able to house big engines.

The Interceptor package included:  Heavy-duty suspension, brakes, and cooling.  Reinforced frame, 12-volt electrical system with high-output alternator and a certified speedometer (up to 120 or 140 mph).  The vehicle was prepped for spotlight mounts, siren and radio.  There was also an optional blackout or “no chrome” trim for unmarked use.

For the Police Interceptor version Ford offered high-performance V8s, including a 352 cu in (5.8L) Interceptor V8 (a popular police engine) or  390 cu in (6.4L) V8 (Hubba Hubba).  Drive train offerings were a 3-speed manual or optional automatic (Cruise-O-Matic).  

The 4-door sedan was the most common configuration for police use; although, some 2-door sedans may have been used for pursuit work or highway patrol.  

Never forget, as fast as the highway patrol is - you cannot outrun Motorola....