The word “project” covers a lot of ground. Sometimes it means just cleaning away decades of barn dust and awakening dormant systems. In other cases, such as this 1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner convertible here on Facebook Marketplace in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, it means just about everything needs doing. The ask is a modest $5,500, but as they say in real-estate circles, it’s a handyman’s special, so bring your hammer and screwdriver. Thanks to Zappenduster for the listing.
The owner prefers to focus on the bright side. It’s a “rare 1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner Convertible project car” featuring “the highly sought-after, factory-original ‘Bumblebee’ two-tone paint scheme: Goldenrod Yellow and Raven Black (Color Code AV). This exact spec was iconic in 1955 advertising and remains one of the most collectible color combinations on the market today.” Maybe the bodywork had yellow at some point, but that’s all gone now, and anyway, colors are barely discernible through the grime. The taillights are missing in action.
The Sunliner name was attached to full-sized Ford convertibles from 1952 (initially part of the top Crestline trim) through 1964. The Y-block took over from the flathead V-8 in 1954. In 1955 the name was attached to the new Fairline lineup, with the great two-tone paint and much chrome.
The project car apparently lacks front bodywork, so the new owner would have to access a hood, front fenders, headlights, and more, unless they’re lying around somewhere. Is that a grille and front bumper in front of the car? Maybe serviceable, maybe not. The engine is there, and the owner says it’s a “period-correct 312 cubic-inch Thunderbird/Mercury V-8 Y-block paired with a classic three-speed manual transmission. Keys and clean title in hand.”
Does the engine run? Not specified here. The interior is a mess, but seems to be mostly there. And we can finally see the yellow paintwork. The top is a rag, but there’s a frame. The car is going to need, at the least, extensive engine work, brakes, suspension, rewiring, reupholstery, paint work, a new top. The good news is no major rust is visible, though the unseen floors and frame might be problems.
The question is whether the new owner would end up underwater. The 1955 Sunliner convertible is a fun and desirable car, especially with this powertrain, manual transmission, and a nice color scheme. But Hagerty says one of these in good condition is worth $21,200. Restoring this derelict at a professional shop would definitely mean investing more than the car is worth. It might be a good project for a father/mother/son/daughter if a) Dad or Mom is very experienced; b) they bargain the price down; and c) they take it slow and have a parts car handy.
IMHO ..The money and work you are going to have put in this car is going way more than the cars worth. 😭😭
THIS is a real Barn Find !!
Likely quite stunning back in 55. It is a lot of labor, cussing, money, and time way from that now. Hope it finds a new home.