This 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 Sunliner convertible we have for sale has been in the same family for 37 years. The current owner's father purchased it in 1971 with 56,000 actual miles on it, and he drove it every summer for 30 years. The car currently has 72,697 miles. The car has the original continental kit, the original AM radio and working clock, power steering and automatic transmission.
In 1983 the car was restored using NOS front fenders and rocker panels. The convertible top was also replaced and the bumpers were re-chromed. The car was repainted its original color at that time too. The engine is the original 292 Thunderbird V8 and it was also rebuilt in 1983. All Receipts come with the car (and some are pictured in the close-up photo gallery below). The car starts every time and it cruises smoothly at highway speeds.
It's been starting a bit rough probably due to a float not working as it should. There is a mechanic that works in the same warehouse where the car is kept and he is going to give it the once over. The beauty of these old Ford Fairlane's is that they are simple and inexpensive to work on.
This spring the car was taken out of storage and the gas tank was refurbished and a new fuel pump was installed. There is also a brand new 6-volt battery and the car just received a complete brake job.
Even though the restoration was done 25 years ago the car is still a real head turner. The finish is far from perfect but it's very presentable. It looks really sharp driving down the road. The original seats, door panels and dash are in very good condition. The front seat has a 1" by 2" patch and one tear on the side but the color is vibrant and the color combination on this car is very nice.
The top is nice and tight and it hasn't been lowered in the last 25 years! The current owner got the top operational for his Father about 25 years ago but because it has not been lowered since it may need fluid in the pump, the electrical connections checked or another pump.
The seller's Father never wanted to lower the top because he thought it would wrinkle the fabric or ruin the back window! The rear window is clear and almost perfect. There is a bit of red in a spot from the seat color conditioner but it's clear and looks great. The tires have wide white walls and have almost new tread.
This '57 Ford Fairlane isn't perfect but it's a great driver, it's gorgeous in the desirable black and red color combination, and it's a very compete car.
So if you're looking for a nice, reliable driver with a rebuilt engine with a documented history this is the car for you. We don't have it priced in the stratosphere so this car is within reach for many collectors. Check out the two photo galleries below, enjoy the videos and let me know if you would like this classic Ford Fairlane Convertible in your garage!
Thanks for looking. Call or email with any questions. -John Snell
1957 Ford Fairlane Convertible Body Gallery | 1957 Ford Fairlane Convertible Close-Up Gallery |