Model 51A. 300 bhp, 352 cu. in. OHV V-8 engine, three-speed Cruise-O-Matic transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel power hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 118 in.

Ford’s retractable hardtop began as a concept for Lincoln’s 1956 Continental Mark II. Considered too expensive to produce at the limited volume expected for the Continental, it was added to the mass-market catalogue for 1957 as a Ford. It remained a flagship in the line and created a sensation whenever its sophisticated mechanisms were demonstrated.

The 1959 Skyliner, the rarest and last of the breed, is considered the best. This one is highly optioned, with power steering, brakes, windows, and front seat, Select Air conditioning, tinted glass, chrome fender skirts, a three-speed Cruise-O-Matic transmission, and a Town and Country signal-seeking radio. The H-Code FE-block 352 CID engine was Ford’s most powerful. Compression of 9.6 to 1 and a Holley four-barrel carburetor gave it 300 brake horsepower at 4,600 rpm. A pleasure for driver and passengers alike, this Ford Skyliner turns heads, whether parked or on the road, and especially when its top is going up or down.