Description
The Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner, introduced in 1957, was one of the most innovative and ambitious cars of its era, famous for being the first mass-produced American automobile with a retractable hardtop. Marketed under the Fairlane 500 nameplate, which denoted Ford’s top-of-the-line trim level, the Skyliner was a showcase of engineering ingenuity and mid-century style. Its unique power-operated roof system set it apart from every other car on the road, making it an instant attention-grabber.
The Skyliner’s retractable hardtop was a marvel of 1950s automotive design. At the touch of a button, the steel roof folded in sections and disappeared into the trunk, operated by a complex system of seven electric motors, four lift jacks, and over 600 feet of wiring. While the mechanism reduced trunk space significantly, the novelty of having a hardtop that transformed into a convertible captivated buyers and gave the car an aura of technological sophistication. No other American manufacturer offered anything comparable at the time, and the Skyliner became a symbol of postwar innovation and optimism.
Styling followed the bold and flamboyant trends of the late 1950s. The Fairlane 500 Skyliner featured long, low lines, prominent tailfins, a wide chrome grille, and elaborate side trim that often emphasized two-tone paint schemes. Chrome accents and brightwork added to its dramatic presence, while the roof mechanism itself dictated a distinctive rear-end design. With its roof up, the Skyliner appeared as a stylish hardtop coupé, and with the roof down it became a glamorous convertible, offering buyers the best of both worlds.
Inside, the Skyliner offered all the luxury expected of Ford’s top trim line. Upholstery came in vinyl and cloth combinations or full vinyl in bold colors to match or contrast the exterior. The dashboard featured full instrumentation, chrome details, and padded safety features, while optional extras included a radio, heater, clock, and increasingly popular power accessories such as power steering, brakes, and seats. Despite the roof’s complexity, passenger space was generous, with comfortable seating for five to six occupants.
Under the hood, the Skyliner was offered with a range of engines, from the base inline-six to several V8 options. The most popular was the 292 cubic inch Y-block V8, producing 212 horsepower, though larger 312 cubic inch and later 352 cubic inch V8s were also available, offering up to 300 horsepower by 1959. These engines were paired with either a three-speed manual, an optional overdrive, or Ford’s Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission. Performance was solid for such a large and heavy car, with the V8 engines providing smooth and confident highway cruising.
Mechanically, the Skyliner shared its chassis with other Fairlane 500 models, with coil-spring front suspension, leaf-spring rear suspension, and hydraulic drum brakes. Its added weight, largely from the roof mechanism, meant it was not as agile as lighter Fairlanes, but it was never intended to be a sports car. Instead, it was a statement piece—an automobile that prioritized drama, luxury, and spectacle.
Priced higher than other Fairlane models, the Skyliner was positioned as a halo car, appealing to buyers who wanted something truly unique. While its cost and complexity limited its sales compared to more conventional Fairlane convertibles, it still found an enthusiastic audience, particularly among buyers who enjoyed its show-stopping design. Between 1957 and 1959, about 48,000 Skyliners were built, making it a rare but important part of Ford’s history.
Today, the Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner is one of the most collectible cars of the late 1950s. Enthusiasts admire its extravagant styling, rare retractable roof system, and its role as a technological pioneer. Restored examples are highlights at classic car shows, often demonstrated with their roof mechanisms in action, a reminder of the era when American carmakers pushed boundaries to captivate the public with bold innovations.