Vehicle Description
SUMMARY
Rotisserie restoration completed in 2015
312 cubic inch Thunderbird V8
Ford-O-Matic 2-speed automatic transmission
Factory power steering
Factory power brakes
Correct Flame Red and Raven Black paint
12-volt electrical system
Continental kit
14-inch wire wheels
In an age where brand aesthetics can easily hang around for a
decade, it's hard to imagine any automaker turning out jaw-dropping
but completely different designs for five years in a row. But,
between 1955 and 1960, Ford did just that and, over time, each
model has become an exalted classic. The 1957 Fairlane 500 is one
of the most sought after cars of its era, with examples like this
rotisserie restored Sunliner serving as great reminders why.
There's simply NOTHING like it on today's roads, and that's without
factoring the car's 312 cubic inch Thunderbird V8, 2-speed
Ford-O-Matic transmission or striking red-on-back color combination
that's guaranteed to turn heads. So, if you're the kind of
enthusiast who likes to envision having their name engraved on
trophies, take a minute to get to know this killer Ford
convertible!
BODYWORK/TRIM
Driven mere break-in miles since restoration, and presenting much
better than when it originally rolled down Ford's storied assembly
lines, this impressive drop-top has been transformed into a
take-no-prisoners weekender that can consistently headline cruise
nights. You won't be staying under the radar with its
professionally finished Flame Red on Raven Black paintwork, which
has been correctly applied over a very clean body. There are no
obvious signs of wholesale panel replacement, suggesting the car
has been a straight, rust-free shell its entire life. Thanks to
Jerry's Classic Cars in Springdale, Arkansas, that shell's fit and
finish is almost good enough to turn reflections into reality. And
ultimately, everything adds up to one super cool cruiser that,
thanks to its spectacular combination of color and trim, has an
absolutely magnetic presence!
Not surprisingly, this exceptional Ford's stylish body features a
roster of cool and carefully maintained details. At the front of
the car, a mirrored grille hangs simple parking lamps between a
guarded bumper, fresh headlights and a classy "Fairlane" script.
Behind that script, a gun sight hood ornament leads the eye to
wraparound glass that's reflected by twin mirrors, cleared with
bright wipers and framed in thick trim. Below that trim,
traditional door handles, color-keyed fender skirts and prominent
rocker guards perfectly complement expressive quarter scripts and
rocket-like side sweeps. Above those sweeps, a tight roof folds
beneath a centered antenna. And behind that antenna, an intricate
crest caps an old school continental kit, which is centered between
jet-inspired taillights, a heavy bumper and cool Delta Wing exhaust
tips.
ENGINE
Tilt the car's sculpted hood and you'll find a correct, 312 cubic
inch Thunderbird V8 that's fully rebuilt and dressed to impress.
Introduced in 1956 as a high-end Ford and Mercury staple, this
stout Y-block remained one of Dearborn's hottest factory options
until late 1961. At the top of the rich red mill, an Argent Silver
air cleaner draws wind into a big 4-barrel carburetor that's juiced
by a series of stainless fuel lines. Atomized octane passes through
a factory intake manifold to correct, cast iron heads that are
topped by painted and Thunderbird-branded valve covers. At the
front of those valve covers, a 12-volt generator and correct fan
spin in unison as a glossy radiator keeps the block cool via
pliable hoses. And spark comes courtesy of a traditional points
distributor, which sequences fire between a modern battery and
fresh plug wires. From its factory heat to its bright inspection
stamps, this convertible's glossy bay presents a clean, authentic
appearance. And best of all, the 245 horsepower engine fires
instantly and sounds surprisingly beefy breathing through OEM-style
exhaust pipes.
DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION
At the bottom of this Fairlane, a fully sorted undercarriage houses
typically over-restored floors that are bolted to lots of
factory-correct components. Nice enough to show but still fully
drivable, this is the perfect compromise for enthusiasts who like
to display their car AND enjoy fun-filled weekends. Behind the
beefy Y-block, a stalwart Ford-O-Matic 2-speed sends power to a
familiar Ford 9-inch that's fitted with pleasant, highway-friendly
gears. The car's suspension remains close to its original
configuration, with factory power steering complementing factory
control arms and traditional leaf springs. All of the chassis'
parts are free of substantial weathering, reinforcing the idea that
it's been a very long time since this 500's seen daily-driver duty.
Braking is quick and adequate thanks to power-assisted drums, which
occupy all four corners of that chassis. And on the outside of
those drums, Coker Classic whitewalls spin around classy wire
wheels.
INTERIOR
2-tone paint is legendary for its characteristically '50s feel. And
when paired with this convertible's airy interior, it creates the
perfect culmination of style and sophistication. Thanks to high
quality vinyl covers, the car's power front and rear bench seats
will be livable for years to come. There's tight carpet that,
thanks to Ford-branded mats, still features rich red loops. Front
and center, a padded dash hangs restored Ford telemetry beside a
correct AM radio. At the sides of that dash, hip panels feature
chrome door handles, small window switches and conservative
armrests. And in front of the driver, a Flame Red steering wheel
laps a chrome, Ford-branded horn ring.
This first class drop-top is a nicely polished piece of jet-age
magic that's ready to be shown and celebrated. With its sturdy
312/Ford-O-Matic drivetrain, streetability certainly won't be a
problem, and the car's impressive interior is every bit as
welcoming now as it was when new. If you're looking for a
first-rate classic to add to your collection, call and claim this
incredible Sunliner!
