This Ford Fairlane got away, but there are more like it here.

This 1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner was built in Dearborn, Michigan and is powered by a 292ci V8 backed by a three-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission. The car was purchased by the seller’s father around 1980, and subsequent updates are said to have included an exterior and interior color change as well as replacement of the convertible top. The seller inherited the car in 2008, and servicing completed within the past year is said to have included replacements of the wheel cylinders and front brake hoses as well as an oil change and tune-up. This Sunliner is now offered in Canada with transferable Manitoba registration in the seller’s name.

1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner

Finished from the factory in Waterfall Blue (D), this example was repainted in the current black color and features a tan convertible top. Trim includes a concave grille, dual spotlights, creased body-side moldings, as well as Fairlane, Sunliner, and Fordomatic badging.

1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner

The steel wheels have been painted to match the body and are mounted with period-style Firestone whitewall tires. Chrome hubcaps with colored center crests are fitted, and a full-size spare is located in the trunk.

1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner

The cabin was originally upholstered in white vinyl with medium blue woven cloth inserts, and a tri-tone color scheme was adapted during the refurbishment according to the seller. Features include a half-circle horn ring, front and rear armrests, and a clock.

1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner

A stock two-spoke steering wheel frames a backlit Astra-Dial speedometer with a five-digit odometer indicating nearly 58k miles, approximately 300 of which have been added by the seller. The glovebox’s latch spring reportedly is not fully functional.

1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner

The P-code 292ci “Thunderbird” V8 produced 188 horsepower when new and is mated to a three-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission. The car was last serviced with replacements of the wheel cylinders and front brake hoses as well as an oil change and tune-up in 2020 according to the seller, who notes that the choke cable requires replacement.

1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner

Several photos of the underside are included in the gallery below, and rust is noted on the exhaust system.

1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner

The data plate above decodes as follows:

  • P – 292ci V8 with four-barrel carburetor
  • 5 – 1955 model year
  • F – Assembled in Dearborn, Michigan
  • C – Convertible body style
  • 155442 – Production sequence
  • Body 76B – Fairlane Sunliner
  • Color D – Waterfall Blue exterior finish
  • Trim BS – White vinyl and medium blue woven cloth interior
  • Production 17K – Built on October 17
  • Code 46 – Scheduled item number

Auction Result

High Bid USD $20,250 (Reserve Not Met)
Auction Ended December 18, 2020 at 1:50PM PT
Bids 33
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BaT Essentials

Seller: Sunliner-55
Location: Saint-Georges, Manitoba, Canada
Listing Details
  • Chassis: P5FC155442
  • 58k Miles Shown, TMU
  • 292ci Thunderbird V8
  • 3-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Black Exterior
  • Tri-Tone Upholstery
  • Tan Convertible Top
  • 1980s Refurbishment
Private Party or Dealer: Private Party
Lot #40675