The Edsel will probably always be known as the biggest failure in U.S. automotive history. And yet, they managed to sell 68,000 of the cars, which was far less than Ford’s break-even point in three model years. This Ranger 4-door sedan is from 1959 and is a basic car with a six-cylinder engine and 3-speed manual transmission (both freshly rebuilt). Located in Renton, Washington, this cosmetic project is available here on craigslist for $4,500.
FOMOCO perceived there was a market for a fourth Dearborn product to accompany the Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln. But their market research and timing were way off when the Edsel debuted in 1958. Sales never reached the level wanted or needed, and the company threw in the towel barely into the 1960 model year. The Ranger was the entry-level product, and they sold 14,000 4-door units in 1959, which comprised nearly one-third of all “horse collar” Edsels that year.
Perhaps a restoration was started on this ’59 Ranger, as we’re told the motor and transmission have just 1,000 miles since a rebuild took place on both. The photos show a car that may have a lot of rust to be conquered, and one of the doors was replaced due to either an accident or corrosion. What we can see of the interior doesn’t seem any better, so you’ll have your work cut out for you in restoring this car the rest of the way.
If this Edsel were a 2-door hardtop or had a V8 engine, the decision to proceed would be easier to swallow. But Ford had made the Edsel less distinctive after a rough first year in 1958, so this Ranger is more like a Ford Fairlane from that model year, sans the controversial front-end styling. Given the passage of 67 years since this car was built, how many can be left, regardless of condition? BTW, thanks again to “Curvette” for more tips like this.
Is it a factory pink car that got a repaint in yellow?
Nothing says, mechanically sound, like a jug of coolant sitting on the transmission tunnel. The seller looks like they may be ready to deal, they’ve already filled the interior with all of its spare parts.
Steve R
Looks like something right out of a Cheech & Chong movie.
Another overpriced wreck.
Do not paint that car!
It is going to be a hard sell at that price.. Its rarity will not overcome the need for an experienced body man..
Looks cool with a pink and blue passenger doors. I would leave them.
Sadly two other Edsels had to die for this one to live. I agree with leaving the contrasting colors – it’s a testament to the spirit of sacrifice in the world of Edsels.
Sacrifice good taste.
Sacrifice self esteem.
Sacrifice peer acceptance.
You want to sell a car? At least wash the mold off! And I really question the 1000 miles rebuild claim – who rebuilds and doesn’t replace the plug wires?
Yeah, and that fuel filter looks pretty rough.
Dave, interesting “rebuild”. Rebuild can mean alot of things and the first thing to remember, rebuild does not equal remanufactured (to or exceeding original build specs). It can mean:
—treated engine to MotorMedic oil additive and changed oil and air filter;
—took valve cover off and scraped oil residue from around lifters, replaced valve cover (maybe with a new gasket-that’s optional);
—tore engine down or partially, parts looked ok, put back together;
—sprayed some fresh paint on engine, looks alot better, easy “rebuild”;
and who knows what rebuild this one has had?
looks like a wreck. was not worthy of an engine rebuild that’s for sure.
Edsel sales over its three model years reached 110,847, if the memory serves accurately.
A lot of ask for a rusted out hulk. You would really need to love Edsels to devote your time and effort to restore a stripper Ford with a 6/3 on the tree. Get a tetanus shot prior to bidding…