1954 Ford Sunliner
The shoebox Ford was introduced in 1949 and was a big success. It was largely different from previous years as we saw the standard of large protruding fenders disappearing on the shoebox design. A slight redesign came in 1952 and while maintaining the original shape they introduced new engines, new grills, different trim levels and a unique 1 piece curved windshield. A few different models were available starting in 52 including the Crestline which was considered the top level. The Crestline was then split into groups which included the Sunliner convertibles and Victoria hardtops. '54 was a big year for the automaker and marked the end of an era as the long lived flathead V8 was replaced. This very clean 1954 Sunliner is in excellent condition and built in a restomod style to be an excellent driver and show car. The bright Red paint has a beautiful finish and is accented by very unique pinstriping. You will find the custom striping in various places including the molded in headlight, around the very cool 6 rows of louvers on the hood, on the front nose, on the rear deck, molded 1956 Oldsmobile taillights and around the frenched power antenna. It has been decked/shaved of all exterior handles and the striping was professionally laid down by the famous Frank Palmer. The lower rear fender trim has also been removed but the stock side trim was left in place to perfectly break up the Red. The front and rear bumpers are beautifully chromed as is the custom 1954 Chevrolet 9 tooth grill. All of these customizations seamlessly work together to create a very eye catching classic. Paired with that Red paint is a nice Beige power convertible top that is new and operates perfectly. When not in place a matching boot is snapped into place. The car doesn't see rain and is primarily driven as a convertible. The wheels on it look excellent with '57 Dodge style hubcaps with matching Red centers wrapped with wide white wall tires.
The car originally had the 239V8 which was new for the year. It is now powered by a 351 Cleveland crate motor. With that striking exterior it better be looking good under the hood and this car does not disappoint. The inner fenders, firewall, and radiator support are all very nicely painted to match the exterior. The motor is then fitted with nice Ford Motorsport valve covers, an oval air cleaner, an Edelbrock Performer manifold, a 4 barrel carb, an Isky cam and Red wires in nice polished V8 wire looms. The car runs nice and cool with an aftermarket aluminum radiator that looks nice too. During the build the electrical was all redone with a Painless Wiring harness so it is ready to go. It has a 3 speed automatic transmission with Lokar shifter and has been set up to be a very nice cruiser. Other upgrades include the Ford 9 inch rear, Wilwood master cylinder, front disc brakes and power steering.
The interior was all refinished in a nice off White/light Beige with Red. It is a very classy and clean design. It has bench seats in front/rear and you will find Red tuck-n-roll style upholstery on both the seats and door panels which look great. It has been very well cared for since completed. The carpet is done in Red and looks great as well. The steel dash is in great shape and utilizes the stock style dome speedometer but below that a custom gauge set has been added. That section is framed in Red with more pinstriping and very cool old school graphics (Mr. Horsepower/Woody Woodpecker themed) next to the custom Alpine stereo. A painted tilt column has been added to the car with a Impala style steering wheel that has cleverly been modified with the Crestline emblem in the horn ring. The trunk of the car is all very nicely carpeted as well and houses a spare with cover.
This Sunliner is such a well done car and has an extremely unique look. It has modern luxuries paired with tasteful old school modifications to make a classic that is sure to stand out.
You are going to have a really tough time replicating the car for $42,500.00!
