For Sale: 1957 Ford Fairlane in Lithia Springs, Georgia

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, proper V8 power, and some very desirable rare features.

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 tail lights. There are even great 1950s cruiser details, like rear fender skirts and a stylish 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 its correct Willow Green and Colonial Cream. The two-tone has a high-gloss finish that looks terrific in the sunshine and just seems to know how to draw added attention to the quality of the body panels. And quality seems to be the right word for this one right down to the details, like the correct wheel covers, bright whitewalls, two-tone on the spare wheel cover, and bumpers that shine like new. 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.

The interior continues the cool green style. In fact, the seats look terrific because those clear covers have sealed in the detailed upholstery. So if the preservation started early in life, we can even suspect this is original to the car. There are more great details, like the Ford family crest in the center of the steering wheel, the same logo repeated on the new green floor mats, the AM radio there for display, and even the working courtesy light. The trunk even looks great with the correct mat and cubby box that tells you where it's safe to put your luggage when the top is stowed. But your favorite feature is likely going to be the rare power windows option. It means you have one of the few Skyliners where you can go from fully enclosed to fully open without ever leaving the driver's seat.

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 dual exhaust gives it a nice dignified sound. As a true cruising convertible, there's an automatic transmission, power steering, and new tires.

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!