Vehicle Description
You already know the significance of the 1957 Ford Fairlane 500
Skyliner. It's the first year of a very limited run where Ford
dreamed big and delivered a retractable hardtop convertible to the
public. And not only do you get that awesome roof, but this is also
a total package with a sleek style, cool/classic interior, and
proper V8 power.
The 1957 Fords were unique from every angle, and that's why we
desire them so much today. The headlight design was exclusive to
this year, and it looks frenched right from the factory. The
Fairlane 500's sweeping side trim had one of its most graceful dips
thanks to the streak of premium gold built right in. And the
extra-long tailfin that started at the door handle gave these
full-size cars some Thunderbird flair - a feeling that was
continued with the afterburner taillights. There are even great
1950s cruiser details, like dual spotlights and a continental kit.
So with all this going for it, you really want a superior example
to see all these details correctly, and that's what makes this
Skyliner so appealing. It has a quality application of the sleek
red, and so it shows off the nice sheetmetal, bright chrome, and
complete trim. Plus, the awesome retractable hardtop has a smooth
action as it disappears into the trunk to give you both the look of
a pillarless coupe or disappear completely to have a great-looking
convertible. This was a technology that was developed for the
Lincoln/Continental program, and so it was a true premium Ford.
Only the Thunderbird was more expensive, and so Ford's standard
convertible outsold the Skyliner nearly four to one. That's why
these are such a rare treat today. So when you see one that's so
complete and looks this good, you know it's a special find.
The interior continues the cool red style. And the streaks of white
on the upholstery and doors gives this one the same all-American
appeal as a Coca-Cola bottle. This is a well preserved/restored
package with an eye to retain the vintage style. You really see it
in the details, like the textured cloth inserts in the seats and
the way white portion seamlessly flows from the doors and across
the dash. And you take full control of it all from behind the
artful steering wheel that still has the Ford family crest in the
center.
This is a D-code convertible, which means it came with the optional
"Thunderbird Special" 312 cubic-inch V8. It looks thoroughly
correct with the bold red block, large air topper, and valve covers
that proudly announce this powerful option. It even inhales
correctly through a Holley four-barrel carburetor. The V8 fires up
nicely, and the glasspack-style dual exhaust gives it a nice
dignified sound. As a true cruising convertible, there's an
automatic transmission. Plus, they upgraded you to power brakes and
front discs. So there's nothing stopping you from going out and
showing this one off everywhere.
This rare Skyliner has an awesome appeal that goes well-beyond that
hallmark retractable hardtop. So if you want to be cruising
tomorrow, you need to call today!