While many current manufacturers emphasize the technology that allows their convertibles to feature electrically retractable hardtops, Ford beat them to the punch with their 1957 Fairlane 500 Skyliner. It offered owners the luxury and convenience of a classic convertible, but with the weather protection and security of a traditional hardtop if things took a turn for the worse. Our feature car is 1-of-2 purchased at the same time by the seller’s father, and it has emerged from a three-decade hibernation in surprisingly good original condition. The seller has owned the car for fifteen years but feels that the time is right for it to go to a new home where it can continue to be appreciated. Located in Greenville, North Carolina, the Skyliner is listed for sale here on craigslist. You can drive away in this classic for $35,000, and I have to say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting it for us.

While the owner refers to this Skyliner’s primary paint shade as Carolina Blue, I can’t find that color on any Ford color charts from that model year. However, it appears identical to Starmist Blue, while the top is finished in Colonial White. The seller indicates that the paint is original, and this classic has never been the recipient of any restoration work. It still presents beautifully, with no significant flaws or defects in its panels or paint. They also emphasize that there is no major rust, although they don’t indicate where any minor issues may be hiding. The defining characteristic of the Skyliner is the retractable hardtop, and this one looks good. It hasn’t been lowered for many years, so it isn’t clear whether it functions correctly. If not, getting it operational may take some time and patience. The mechanisms for these are pretty complicated, with seven reversible electric motors, ten solenoids and switches, four lift jacks, plus sundry other components. As you can imagine, coordinating all of these items takes a practiced eye, but some specialists can come to the aid of stranded owners if it all gets too hard. The overall impression conveyed by this Fairlane is positive, with dazzling chrome trim and spotless glass adding to the Ford’s appeal. If this classic doesn’t tick enough of the “classy” boxes for you, the Continental Kit and wide whitewall tires probably seal the deal.

If the Fairlane’s exterior makes a positive impression, its interior serves up more of the same. The upholstered surfaces wear a combination of Blue and White vinyl, perfectly complimenting the exterior paint shades. The upholstered surfaces appear spotlessly clean and free from wear, with the back seat looking like it has never been used. The carpet has some slight marks across the transmission tunnel, but if it is original, it has survived in exceptional condition. The dash and wheel look crisp and clean, and if the luxury of a folding hardtop isn’t enough, occupants also receive a clock and a pushbutton AM radio.

Buyers in 1957 could choose from a varied selection of V8s to power their Skyliner, but this car’s original owner chose the 312ci motor that produced 245hp. Coupled to the V8 is a three-speed automatic transmission, and while the Fairlane is not a high-performance offering, its 17.4-second ¼-mile ET looks pretty respectable. However, this is a genuine mystery machine. The seller’s father purchased a pair of Skyliners from their original owner fifteen years ago and retained this one as his favorite. When he located the cars, they had been in hiding for more than thirty years. That original owner claimed that the mileage on the odometer was genuine, and because there was no documentary evidence, they accepted this in good faith. The odometer currently shows 10,831 miles, and if the buyer can confirm these as genuine, this car is an incredible survivor. Given its overall condition and ownership history, the claim does sound plausible. Even if you discount that claim from the equation, the news remains positive. The seller says that the Skyliner drives exceptionally well for a 65-year-old car and that its dual exhaust produces a pleasing rumble. It seems that this is a turnkey proposition for its next lucky owner.

With summer fast approaching, the idea of hitting the road for some top-down touring is becoming more attractive with each passing day. Classic convertibles are wonderful vehicles, but many don’t provide security or weather protection if Mother Nature decides to rain on your parade. That is where this 1957 Skyliner comes into its own. It offers that wonderful wind-in-the-hair experience, but occupants can snuggle down in comfort if needed. If a potential buyer could confirm the mileage on this one, it would make it an extraordinary survivor. Are you tempted to pursue that question further with a view to parking this classic in your driveway?