Ford’s styling for 1955 was completely new and fresh; the crisp, clean lines that were incorporated into the ’55 Ford line up were inspired by Ford’s new and exciting Thunderbird. Mechanical and engineering advances set new standards in restful comfort and agile performance.

Jeffrey Day acquired this 1955 Ford Country Sedan from the widow of its original owner on Long Island. The top-of-the-line wagon had been driven a little over 3,000 miles at the time of the owner’s passing, at which point his wife hid it away into their garage. Six years ago, it was fortunate enough to find its way into Mr. Day’s collection, where it was conscientiously upgraded and well-kept. It changed hands again approximately one year ago and continues to be presented in this same fine manner.

Mr. Day chose to repaint the Country Sedan about four years ago, as its original paint had, unfortunately, aged beyond preservation. The resulting paint job is best described as “good as factory,” with very straight panels and a nice finish, aside from a little orange peel. Remarkably, the doors still shut perfectly and fit as-new. Ford script glass is still in all windows, and the red and white interior remains, except for new carpets, entirely original and “factory.” The bench seats still look brand new, and the burlap-pattern headliner shows only the expected minor staining from a one-time daily driver. Its undercarriage is very clean, with a brand-new stainless exhaust and “never-rust” mufflers installed.

The Country Sedan was available in both six- and eight-cylinder models. This example is running with the desirable 272-cid, 162-hp overhead valve V-8 engine; the options and accessories are abundant on this Country Sedan and include such items as a Fordomatic transmission, a four-way power seat, power windows, an “Automatic” AM radio, Master Guide power steering, power brakes, a dashboard-mounted clock, optional front and rear stoneguards, original headliner, stainless rocker moldings, a roof rack, dual rearview mirrors, full wheel covers and wide whitewall bias-ply tires. A new-old-stock external sunvisor has also been added, while the chromed elements and brightwork are beautifully presented. Details under the hood are as original as would be expected, and they are very clean. This Country Sedan is in excellent condition inside and out and even displays an original 1965 New York certificate of inspection window sticker. They were available as a six- or eight-passenger version; the Body code 79D on the car’s data tag shows that this is the six-passenger type. The same data tag confirms the Raven Black color from new, as well as the red and white interior, designated by Color A and Trim AA respectively.

Whether the new owner is an enthusiast of originality, options, or both, this 3,300-mile (title states “exempt”) Country Sedan is essentially guaranteed to please.