Lifetime California car. 332 cubic inch V8, automatic. Gorgeous Torch Red over Colonial White with matching interior. Recently serviced, new 4-barrel carburetor, dual exhaust. Runs and drives very well. ‘50s icon ready to enjoy!

Code E Colonial White is this car’s original color, but when it was repainted a few years ago they added Torch Red to the lower body, and it was the right choice. It looks fantastic, with a bright ‘50s look that attracts attention and looks 100% correct (you could order a white-over-red Fairlane in 1958, so it’s not a demerit in judging). As a California car, it looks like this one has all its original bodywork and has never been wrecked or rusty, so the doors fit well and the big expanses of sheetmetal on the quarter panels and hood are smooth and ripple-free. The stainless and chrome pieces are likely original and in excellent shape, with a nice shine and notably few issues. The ‘58s were restyled significantly, including the addition of dual headlights on each side, which was a styling trend sweeping the industry in light of revised state laws. There’s also a faux hood scoop that defines the ‘58s, a pair of wonderful little ornaments atop each fender, and the nicely detailed mesh grille that gives it a finished look. The gold anodized panels add just the right contrast, and the big oval taillights are a 1958-only styling feature. Everyone has their personal favorites, but we really like the way this big Ford ragtop looks.

The gorgeous red and white interior was restored with the rest of the car and remains in excellent condition. It’s handsomely appointed and big enough for six passengers, again reinforcing the Ford’s upscale image. Ford’s arching speedometer includes the fuel and temperature gauges, and all the dials are fully functional. In fact, everything works except the clock, which isn’t surprising, and there’s a modern AM/FM head unit neatly installed in the original radio’s slot. Seat belts were added for safety and embroidered floor mats give it a finished look. Overhead there’s a bright white convertible top that stows under a matching white boot, and while it’s power operated, it does take some care to make it fold neatly. The massive trunk is outfitted with a matching red carpet set as well as a full-sized spare tire and jack assembly.

The engine is the original 332 cubic inch V8, which was the mid-range offering in 1958 and by far the most popular. It wears a modern Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor, so it’s probably a bit stronger than stock and the big ragtop is plenty fleet of foot on the road. The engine has been rebuilt and nicely detailed with Ford Blue engine enamel, fabricated aluminum valve covers, and a custom chrome air cleaner on top of the carburetor. A single turn of the key and it lights off easily, settling into a smooth, easy idle once it’s warmed up. On the road, it pulls smoothly without a hitch in the flow of torque and thanks to a pair of Flowmaster mufflers, it has a wonderful performance V8 sound that gets even better with the top down. The engine is backed by a 3-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission, which shifts cleanly through all three gears and with 4.11 gears out back, this big convertible feels reasonably quick around town. The undercarriage is unquestionably original but in remarkably good shape with solid floors, a straight frame, and no signs of rust or rot anywhere on the critical sheetmetal components. Please review the photos and you’ll see plenty of evidence of this car’s California heritage. There are also newer shocks, a replacement gas tank, and recent 225/75/14 wide whitewall radials on the original steel wheels.

This handsome Fairlane Sunliner is the epitome of ‘50s cool. Great colors, a strong pedigree with a lifetime spent in California, and a conscientious restoration to make it a great road car all make it a great find that will be the center of attention wherever it goes. If you’re like us and like your ‘50s cars flashy, this Ford delivers. Call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.