The 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner Retractable
The 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner Retractable was the pinnacle of automotive innovation and luxurious convertible motoring for its era. As the third and final model year for Ford's groundbreaking retractable hardtop design, the Skyliner continued to captivate audiences with its revolutionary engineering and unmistakable styling, embodying the optimism and extravagance of the late 1950s American automotive scene.
Design and Styling:
The 1959 Skyliner shared its fundamental design with the rest of the 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 line, which received a significant facelift. The front featured a prominent, horizontal grille with quad headlights flanking a broad, chrome bumper. New for '59 were larger, "swept-back" tailfins that extended further back and upward, lending a more aggressive and dynamic stance to the car. The Skyliner's unique selling proposition, however, was its fully automatic retractable hardtop. With the flip of a switch, the entire metal roof section would fold neatly into the trunk, transforming the coupe into a full convertible in approximately 30 seconds. This marvel of engineering was concealed behind a large, hinged trunk lid, which also raised to allow the roof assembly to slide into its stowed position.
The interior mirrored the opulent styling of the exterior. High-quality materials, plush seating, and a dashboard adorned with chrome accents created an atmosphere of refined luxury. Available in a range of attractive color combinations, the Skyliner was as visually stunning with its top up as it was with it down.
Engineering and Innovation:
The Skyliner's most defining feature was its complex, electrically operated retractable hardtop mechanism. This intricate system involved numerous motors, hydraulic pumps, and mechanical linkages to flawlessly execute the roof's folding and stowing sequence. It was a testament to Ford's engineering prowess and a bold statement of automotive technology. While incredibly advanced for its time, the system was also known for its complexity and potential for maintenance. The storage of the roof in the trunk also significantly reduced trunk space when the top was down, a practical consideration for potential buyers.
Performance and Powertrain:
Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1959 Skyliner offered robust Ford V8 engine options. The standard powerplant was typically a 292 cubic inch "Y-block" V8, but the more desirable and potent 332 cubic inch "FE" V8, often referred to as the "Thunderbird 352" as it shared its basic design, was also available. These engines provided ample power for cruising and spirited driving, characteristic of American cars of the era. Transmission options generally included Ford's three-speed manual transmission and the highly sought-after "Cruise-O-Matic" automatic transmission, further enhancing the driving experience.
Market Position and Legacy:
The 1959 Ford Skyliner Retractable was a premium offering, priced significantly higher than standard convertibles. It appealed to a discerning clientele who sought cutting-edge technology, exclusive styling, and the ultimate open-air driving experience. Despite its technical sophistication and appeal, the Skyliner was a niche product. Its high production costs and the inherent complexity of the retractable roof system contributed to its relatively short production run (1957-1959).
However, the 1959 Ford Skyliner Retractable holds a significant place in automotive history. It remains an icon of American automotive design and engineering from the golden age of the automobile. Its audacious concept and flawless execution of the retractable hardtop make it a highly collectible and cherished classic car, representing a period when manufacturers weren't afraid to push the boundaries of what was possible. Today, it is celebrated for its unique blend of style, innovation, and sheer automotive theatre.