245hp, 312 cu. in. overhead valve V8 engine, automatic transmission, independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 118"

In 1957 the Ford Motor Company applied a series of innovative design principles to its automobiles. Spearheaded by the Chief of Styling, George W. Walker, the 1957 Fords successfully challenged the norm and won. In short, it was the impact of the company's 'equaflair' styling expressed in its most appealing Fairlane series that boosted Ford's reputation as a leader in car manufacturing. The blunt front-end incorporated a clean, full-width rectangular grille with subtle bits of chrome trim decoratively placed around the body. All of the refinements set forth in the new Fairlane helped to reassure buyers that they needn't look elsewhere.

As expected, the Fairlane took the car market by storm with its two and four door 'thin pillar' models, while the convertible Sunliner and retractable roof Skyliner were considered the envy of the series. The latter is considered America's first production convertible sporting a retractable hardtop. What's more, it was available with any of Ford's V8s for 1957. Aside from the additional cubic inches, the interior of the Fairlanes offered the 'deep dish' steering wheel, an easier to read instrument panel and more supportive seats. With 37 different fabric color combinations and a selection of either standard nylon or optional vinyl upholstery, it seemed customers had more difficulty choosing a pattern than negotiating on the car's purchase price.

A rust-free California car, the handsome Skyliner Retractable Hardtop presented here was recently subjected to a high quality professional, nut-and-bolt restoration at a cost of over $120,000. The car has not been driven since completion of this restoration, reportedly remains in outstanding condition, and is as stunning underneath as it is on top. It is equipped with virtually every available option, from a Continental Kit and signal seeking Town & Country radio to every available power feature. Most importantly, however, this car is equipped with factory air conditioning ' a very rare option indeed, as it is believed that only about 120 such Skyliner Retractable Hardtops were equipped as such.

Beyond its well-equipped interior and handsome styling, the advanced Ford Skyliner was of course also very practical; according to a period advertisement starring Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, 'it goes from an open convertible with room inside for a weekend's worth of luggage to a hardtop all in a matter of seconds.'