1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner

1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Retractable

VIN: B9EW103593

The 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner, also know as the "retractable" was produced from 1957 to 1959. The car is a two door full-size car that was only the second car in history to be series produced with a retractable hardtop and the first car produced to feature a roof composed of more than one segment. Additionally, the trunk-lid also consisted of two pieces and both the folding roof and trunk lid are power operated through an exceptionally complex electrical system.

The car presented at auction was acquired out of Lewistown, MT many years ago. 1998, this Fairlane was placed on loan to the Powell County Auto Museum in Deer Lodge, MT. When the owner of the car passed away a short time later, his son acquired the car and continued displaying it at the museum. In September, 2017, the car was brought to Billings and expertly put back in running condition. Work performed on the car included having the generator rebuilt, the radiator rebuilt, installation of a new water pump, new ram cylinder and new wiring, hoses and any lines that needed replaced.

History on the car is limited. The son recollected his father having the car painted at some point in its history. Upon inspection, it is believed the car was originally black and gold to match the interior as noted in the pictures. . Mechanically, other than the re-start mechanical work completed, other mechanical work is not known.

The exterior of the car presents very well in driver quality. The extensive chrome and stainless bumpers and trim appears to be all present, and the hubcaps were located and correct for the car. The paint is 20+ years old, but the car has benefitted from inside, climate controlled storage. The interior of the car appears to have an upholstery cover on the seats, potentially covering the original material, though not confirmed.

The car displays typical fluid leaks associated with long-term storage, but the car runs and drives well. The retractable hardtop runs through the full-cycle both up and down.

This is your chance to own a highly collectible Ford hardtop convertible. With a two family owner history for the last 25+ years, this car is a perfect candidate for a concourse level restoration or enjoy the car in its current original driver quality condition.



This car has been consigned to the 13th Annual Montana Classic Car Auction hosted by the Classic Car Auction Group. The auction is Saturday, July 12th at MetraPark in Billings, Montana. To consign your car and/or to register to bid on this and other cars in the auction go to http://www.classiccarauction.us.