I would typically look at a classic like this 1953 Ford Crestline Sunliner and question an ultra-low odometer reading. However, the car’s history makes the claimed 38,000 genuine miles seem plausible. It has spent considerably more time in storage than in active service, but it runs and drives, needing little to stalk our streets once again with a new owner behind the wheel. The Sunliner is listed here on eBay in Roswell, New Mexico. Bidding has surged past the reserve to sit at $10,000, but plenty of time remains in this auction for interested parties to join the frantic activity.

The history of this Sunliner is slightly convoluted, although it helps to explain its low-mile status. The car was active for nine years before being parked in dry storage in 1962. It hibernated until 1979. The owner at that point treated it to some TLC when it emerged, with the Ford receiving infrequent use until being parked again in 1987. The seller recently dragged it out of hiding, reviving it ready for its journey to a new home. Part of the 1979 refresh included a repaint, and the Trim Tag confirms the Green currently gracing its panels isn’t original. Its first owner ordered the car in Sungate Ivory, and reinstating that shade as part of a cosmetic restoration would be straightforward. The winning bidder could perform the repaint in a home workshop because the preparation shouldn’t provide many challenges. The panels are straight, and rust is confined to one area on the driver’s side lower front fender and a few bubbles under the paint. All appear patchable without resorting to wholesale panel replacement. The Black power top was replaced in 1979, but a repeat performance is required for the car to be weatherproof. New tops retail for around $700, and while the top motor runs, the mechanism isn’t operational. The passenger side rear window is cracked, although the remaining glass is acceptable for a survivor-grade vehicle. Some trim pieces are okay, and others deserve an appointment with the platers.

Ordering a 1953 Sunliner brought the owner a 239ci flathead, Ford’s legendary V8 that is as tough as nails. The original owner selected the three-speed manual transmission, which sent 110hp and 196 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels. Those figures might be theoretical because this engine received headers and a dual exhaust courtesy of a previous owner. The improved breathing may have unleashed a few extra ponies, but not enough to terrorize high-performance models at the local drag strip. That owner treated the motor and transmission to a rebuild as part of the 1979 revival, upgrading the electrical system to 12 volts to improve reliability. It is worth noting the seller includes the original generator and exhaust manifolds for those wishing to perform a faithful restoration. The seller handed this Ford to a mechanic to bring it back to life. They flushed the fuel system, rebuilt the carburetor, and fitted a new water pump. The car runs, and drives, and the impression is it would take little effort to return it to a roadworthy state.

Sometimes modifications to classic cars come under the heading “that seemed like a good idea at the time.” Such is the case with this Sunliner’s interior. The original vinyl has made way for Black diamond-patterned velour cloth that would have been an appropriate upgrade in 1979. It isn’t ripped or badly worn, but it looks totally out of character in this car. A retrim will form part of this restoration, which could produce a few challenges. Trim kits are rare, but the correct materials are available “off the roll” through many upholstery suppliers. Those feeling brave could tackle recreating the original look, but there would be no shame in bundling everything together and handing it to a professional. Some bright trim pieces could join their exterior counterparts at the platers, and a new carpet set should go on the shopping list. The Jensen radio/cassette player looks pretty awful, and I would replace that with something more appropriate. The previous owner added aftermarket air conditioning, although the seller includes the original ventilation components for those aiming for a faithful build.

Judging whether any classic ticks the right boxes for enthusiasts can sometimes be challenging, but this 1953 Ford Crestline Sunliner leaves no doubt. It has attracted thirty-one bids, with the price surging past the reserve while I wrote this article. That means a new home is in the near future for this fine Ford. I hope its new owner returns the car to its former glory because I believe it deserves nothing less. Your view may differ from mine, and you may see a custom future for this old girl. It will be fascinating to read your feedback on the subject and see whether you are tempted to join the bidding war.