Restomod Ragtop: 1956 Ford Sunliner Convertible – Sold?

 November 10th Update: We just confirmed the Craigslist ad for this car expired and with no replacement listing found, we’re assuming this car sold.  This one may have got away, but if you have your heart set on something similar, email us the details of what you’re looking for or call Rudy directly at (908)295-7330

The original goal of early restomods was to provide a stock-looking vintage car both inside and out that contained very subtle modern powertrain, suspension, and interior upgrades providing the driver and their passengers the best of both worlds.  This 1965 Ford Sunliner we came across with a listing recently on Craigslist in Williamsburg, Kentucky for $32,500 is a great example.  Researching the Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the private seller has their Sunliner priced between this guide’s #3 Good” estimate of $29,800 and its #2 “Excellent” appraisal of $39,400.  Similarly, using the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool as a second data point confirms this private seller has his Sunliner priced between the #3 “Good” appraisal of $37,200 and the #4 “Fair” estimate of $23,200.

Here is the Haggerty Insurance synopsis on the 1955-1957 Full-Size Fords:

“Named for Henry Ford’s Dearborn estate, Ford’s premium Fairlane line debuted alongside the original Thunderbird for 1955. These new top-line cars helped Ford record its best sales year since 1923. Just 1,999 buyers, though, chose the expensive 1955 Fairlane Crown Victoria Skyliner, with Plexiglas top insert. Only 603 more would select the model in 1956. Ford refreshed Fairlane styling for 1956. A new Victoria “Fordor” hardtop joined the line, while two-door Victoria hardtops gained a new roofline. An enlarged, 312-cid, Thunderbird V8 and factory air conditioning were fresh options. The 1957 models—the newest Fords since 1949—featured a redesigned chassis, which permitted a lower body profile. A new top-series Fairlane 500 and newly mid-range Fairlane shared a lengthened 118-inch wheelbase. In dealerships across America, the amazing Fairlane 500 Skyliner drew crowds with every demonstration of its self-storing metal top. Even now, Crown Victorias rule among 1955-’56 enthusiasts, while the Skyliner retractable hardtop is a ’50s icon. Although Ford outsold Chevy for the model year, 1957 Fairlane 500 convertibles and hardtops are shockingly scarce today.”

Hemming’s Motor News Provides this complete buyer’s guide for the 1955-1956 Full-Size Fords that is a must-read if you are considering the purchase of this example or something similar:

With its more modern 302 cubic inch V8 and we assume smoother-shifting overdrive automatic combined with an oversize aluminum radiator and updated brakes,  this Sunliner appears will fool just about everyone into believing its completely stock until you open the hood.  Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Beautiful 1956 Ford Sunliner Convertible with a good
running 302 V-8 engine and a smooth-shifting automatic
transmission.

Power brakes and power top. only 90,000 original miles.

Very nice paint and sharp looking interior. Trunk and engine
compartments are clean as a whistle. No rust anywhere and
all of the lights, turn signals, radio, and gauges work. Very
nice wheels and tires.

Top is like new. No A/C . Car is located in Williamsburg, Kentucky.  Thank you“

Do you have a Ford Sunliner story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!