Vehicle Description
It's kind of strange to think of a Ford as being unusual, but if
you're looking for a mid-50s machine that isn't a Chevy, this 1955
Ford Customline certainly fits the bill. It offers period-perfect
colors, lots of flashy trim, and a sweet-running V8, all of which
make it the perfect cruise night special for the guy who enjoys the
journey more than the destination.
The entry-level Ford Customline didn't include a lot of chrome and
trim, and since the Fairlane was the kind of car you bought to show
everyone you had truly arrived, well, it made sense to add Fairlane
trim during the restoration. Today this Ford is sleek and
well-proportioned. Originally paint code B, which was Banner Blue,
they resprayed it traditional Showshoe White and Onyx Black to
really make it stand out. A careful examination of the car shows
that it was a professional paint job and while it was done a few
years ago, the quality workmanship is holding up rather well. It's
been driven and enjoyed a bit and there are a few signs of age, but
if it's a high-profile Ford you're looking for, this is a great
choice because someone else has already put the first chip in it so
all you have to do is drive and enjoy. All the chrome and trim is
in good order with a few signs of age, but there's no arguing that
this isn't a great-looking car.
The interior was given a full makeover to match the bodywork and
aside from a set of seat belts that are a welcome upgrade, it's got
a perfect 1950s feel. The pleated inserts make the bench seats
comfortable for long hauls and the door panels are trimmed to match
using the same materials and a chrome strip that echoes the
stainless outside. There's just as much brightwork inside as out,
and the detailing is especially impressive when you realize that
this is a Ford, not a higher-priced car. The instrument panel is
comprised of a dome-shaped speedometer with auxiliary gauges just
underneath while three round pods in the center of the dash house
the heater controls, radio, and clock, respectively. The usual
auxiliary gauges hang under the dash. Replacement carpets, a
color-matched steering wheel with horn ring, and the trunk is
trimmed using a correct mat and a radial spare tire make this a car
that's ready to use.
Ford's 312 cubic inch V8 isn't going to win drag races, but it has
plenty of pep around town and makes great V8 sounds on the open
road. Rebuilt in 2010 and sporting an Edelbrock carburetor, the
Customline has an easy, effortless feeling that matches its look.
Detailed in Ford Red engine enamel, a big open-element air cleaner,
and those distinctive exhaust manifolds, it looks decent but you
don't have to be afraid of taking it for a drive. The 3-speed
manual transmission was rebuilt at the same time as the engine and
with highway-friendly gears in back, it's the perfect choice for a
road trip. A ] dual exhaust system gives it that mellow V8 tone,
while the rest of the chassis appears to be entirely original and
in very good shape. New color-matched steel wheels with beautiful
hubcaps give it the right look, along with bright 215/70/15
whitewall radials that give it great road manners.
This handsome Ford is an icon among guys who aren't fans of the
bowtie brigade and it remains a great driver that will never fail
to attract attention wherever it goes. Call today!