1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner

312ci OHV V8
Single 4-Barrel Carburetor
225bhp
2-Speed Automatic Transmission
Front Independent with Live Rear Axle Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Iconic model from the 1950s
*H-Code engine
*Always garaged under cover
*Cruise-O-Matic transmission


THE FAIRLANE SKYLINER

The Ford Fairlane Skyliner can claim to be America's first production convertible to feature a retractable hardtop. Introduced as Ford's top-of-the-range model in 1955, the Fairlane was rival to Chevrolet's successful Bel Air and came in six different body styles with a choice of six-cylinder or V8 engines. The range was re-styled for 1957, gaining new, lower bodies adorned with the latest styling fad – tail fins - and the Fairlane 500 introduced as the ultimate trim level. '57 was also notable as the year of the Skyliner's introduction. Considerably more expensive than the conventional Sunliner convertible, the Skyliner featured a hardtop that, at the touch of a button, automatically retracted back into the boot. In 1959, for its last year of production, the Skyliner was both re-engineered and re-styled, becoming part of the new range-topping Galaxie line-up, though continuing to be badged as a Fairlane 500.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Nicely preserved in its Rancho Mirage, CA garage right next to the 59' Lincoln Continental also offered at this sale, this Skyliner had spent the last few years in the dry climate of the Coachella Valley. During this time it was essentially used for leisure trips there.

The previous sympathetic restoration is beginning to show some signs of aging, but the car still bears a clean look with its striking Colonial White and Torch Red paint as well as Torch Red soft-textured vinyl bolster and Raven striped nub fabric with Silver Strand interior. From the trim plate, we also understand that the car sports the Automatic Cruise O-Matic transmission that was introduced into Ford production in 1958 as an evolution of the Borg Warner made Ford-O-Matic transmission.

Representing Ford at their most creative, the Skyliner is a wonderful look at 1950s engineering solutions and will surely be a welcome addition to any collection. Recommissioning is needed for further enjoyment.