Introduced in February 1957, the idea of a full-size hardtop that could become a convertible in a matter of seconds seemed like another jet-age mechanical marvel. Ford’s retractable hardtop was an instant hit. People lined up for hours to watch this ballet of metal lift, fold, and stow away totally hidden from view at the touch of a button. Employing over 600 feet of wiring, 20 special contact switches, and eight servo motors, watching the top operate was like watching a mechanical symphony. As the near silent whirring of the motors raise the rear deck, extend the auxiliary package tray, then unwind the securing screws before lifting the entire hardtop with package tray and back glass in place, folding back the leading flap, and then bringing the entire assembly backwards into the waiting storage well before the lid smoothly closes down and secures itself, transforming from a closed car to an open convertible in just under a minute.

The special example offered here is equipped with the Thunderbird Special 292 cubic inch / 212 horsepower V-8 engine with a Ford-O-Matic transmission. Considered to be in very original condition, it is also equipped with a pushbutton AM radio, power steering, Continental kit and has a period Polar Aire air conditioning unit installed. Ownership history shows it being purchased by the second owner in Bixby, Oklahoma in 1987 and last sold in 2011.

Among the most desirable of all collector cars from the 1950's, the Ford Skyliner Retractable Hardtop is near the top of the list. This example presents an excellent opportunity to acquire a car that will be fun to own, powerful enough to drive on a modern highway, and still create amazement to those who see this mechanical marvel go into it’s scene stealing act of turning into the ultimate Hideaway Hardtop.