For 1957, Ford introduced four series on two different wheelbases. The larger Fairlane and Fairlane 500 models rode on a 118-inch wheelbase, while the entry-level Custom, Custom 300, and station wagons were built on 116-inch chassis. All Fords were lower and longer, with Fairlanes eclipsing the ’56s by nearly a foot but measuring four inches lower.

The styling was all new. The sweeping trim of the 1955–1956 Fairlane models was adapted to the 1957 Fairlane 500 and given a more sophisticated look, which resulted in it flowing downward from the headlamps and then curving upward and rising to end atop handsome tailfins. Other models had different but complementary trim motifs, all of them accommodating the two-tone color schemes characteristic of the 1950s. Engines included six and three sizes of V-8s, with displacements from 223 to 312 cubic inches and horsepower up to 245.

At the outset there was but one convertible, the Fairlane 500 Sunliner. It was joined midyear by the Skyliner, a retractable hardtop developed from a stillborn Continental Mark II concept. However, most open-car customers opted for the soft-top Sunliner, with nearly 78,000 being sold. The new styling was popular and helped Ford mount a serious challenge to archrival Chevrolet. For the 1957 calendar year, Ford and Chevy were neck and neck, but Ford scored a substantial victory for the model year.

The car offered here was reportedly purchased directly from its original owner by well-known collector Don Kizziar, who in turn sold it to esteemed enthusiast Wayne Davis. Mr. Davis subsequently commissioned a complete frame-off restoration in 2007, after which Mr. Kizziar, who clearly loved the Ford very much, bought it back.

The Sunliner is powered by the normally aspirated 312-cubic inch, 245-brake horsepower V-8, which has a single four-barrel carburetor and 9.7:1 compression. In addition to its Ford-O-Matic transmission, it is equipped with a dual exhaust, a power seat, power windows, and Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels that are shod in wide whitewall tires. Convenience options on the car include a Town & Country signal-seeking radio and windshield washers. The Starmist Blue finish is excellent, and all of the brightwork has been re-plated and polished. The interior is as-new, and the engine compartment and undercarriage have been carefully detailed.

This Sunliner is extremely fresh and exceedingly fine, and it is an excellent example of a trendsetting motor car that draws a crowd at any event.