At the time of the 1951 model introduction, Ford was without a trendy hardtop coupe in its lineup. So, the Crestliner continued to carry on as the top-of-the line sporty Ford. As in the previous model year, the Crestliner was a variation of the Tudor Sedan. Its purpose was to stem the tide of the popular Chevrolet Bel Air model (with its hardtop roofline) until the Victoria could be put in production some months later. Four special paint colors were available along with specific artificial leather and craftcord seating. Unique touches included a vinyl roof, exclusive side trim, two-tone paint with a black or brown insert, special wheel covers, ribbed rear fender skirts, and a custom interior.

Like its other top-line siblings, the hardtop coupe and convertible, V-8 engines were standard in all Crestliners. The public never quite warmed to the car, and once the Victoria was introduced, production trickled to a close. Just 8,703 were built for the shortened model year.

New for 1951 was Hawaiian Bronze with a Dark Brown insert as worn by this beautiful example. This car has been part of the late Don Gibson’s collection and like all his cars, is a spectacular example of the marque. It has been part of his cache since 1998 and is a 2003 recipient of a Dearborn Award from the Early Ford V-8 Club of America. Included is the owner’s manual, spare keys, and the Dearborn Award plaque. Since being both authentically and meticulously restored, it has completed just 777 miles. In addition to the flathead V-8, it is equipped with the three-speed manual transmission and optional overdrive, clock, and radio.

A very special and rare Crestliner, this example is a must-have for the particular collector of Fifties Fords.