Recent restoration. 272 cubic inch V8. All three rows of seats. Impressive car in every way, possibly the best anywhere.
Hailing from California, this lovely Country Squire was recently treated to a no-expenses-spared restoration that reportedly cost more than $70,000. As a solid west-coast car, there was no need to disassemble it down to the molecular level, and as a result it retains that tight, all-of-a-piece feel that the best original cars have while showing off freshened paint, interior, and mechanical pieces. According to the door tag, it’s wearing correct Colonial White paint that has a bit of cream in it so it looks warm and inviting, particularly next to the faux wood panels. Fit and finish are exemplary, with doors that fit well and close without slamming, a tailgate that opens and closes easily, and proper hood alignment that sits right. Modern urethane paint gives it an impossibly deep shine that’s unquestionably better than new and should last for years to come. The fiberglass surrounds are in exceptionally good condition with light woodgrain effects and the decals are sharp and well-renderedAnd with all this talk of wood, it’s easy to overlook the fact that all the chrome has been treated to show-quality refinishing.
Inside, the two-tone red and white interior is perfect for the flashy ‘50s. Fully restored, it features correct patterns and materials throughout, from the pleated seats to the surprisingly plush carpets which make the wagon feel quiet and upscale inside. Of note, this car carries all three row of seating, with the third row bench being rather rare as early owners often removed it to increase cargo space. The steering wheel and gauge were restored and look almost new, and even the AM radio is fully functional, a relative rarity in the old car world. The second row seat folds flat for carrying long objects and the passenger-side seat tips forward for access to the third row, which is surprisingly comfortable, even for full-sized folks. There’s a new headliner overhead and the cargo bay is fully finished in matching red carpet and bright rub strips.
The engine is a 272 cubic inch Y-block V8 that’s been rebuilt and properly detailed. There’s bright Ford Red paint on the block, heads, and intake manifold, and a proper oil bath air cleaner up top. Correct markings and reproduction decals were used throughout the engine bay. It starts quickly and easily, even after prolonged storage, and once it comes off the choke, it idles smoothly. On the road, it pulls easily with impressive low-end torque and the 3-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission shifts with a delightful firmness. With 3.54 gears, it’s lively around town, yet happily cruises at 60 MPH with a happy burble from the twin tailpipes. The suspension and braking systems were rebuilt during the restoration, but one glance underneath reveals the true beauty of west coast cars with super-solid floors and zero rust issues. Brand new Firestone wide whitewall tires have been fitted to the original wheels and crowned with a set of beautiful full wheel covers.
This is quite possibly the finest 1955 Ford Country Squire in existence. There are cheaper cars, but few approaching this level of quality and finish. The ideal car for the hobbyist with a family and it will always be the source of joy for folks who know what America looks like from the back seat.
For more details and photos, please visit www.HarwoodMotors.com
