What is the rarest Edsel?
The rarest Edsel is widely regarded as the 1958 Bermuda Convertible, a model whose production numbers are believed to be in the low hundreds. This article explains why that variant holds that status and how other Edsel models compare in rarity.
Context: Edsel’s short-lived run and how rarity is measured
Edsel was Ford Motor Company's doomed brand, produced for the 1958 model year with continuing effort into 1959 and 1960. Rarity among Edsels is driven by low production totals, limited body styles, and the survival rate of cars from a line that is famous for poor sales. Collectors look at original production numbers, the number of convertibles and limited-edition trims, and how many survive today when determining rarity.
The rarest model: Bermuda Convertible
In Edsel lore, the Bermuda Convertible is frequently cited as the rarest model in the marque’s short history. It was the most upscale, limited-production trim with a convertible roof, and only a fraction of Edsel buyers chose this configuration in 1958.
Below is a snapshot of the key rare variants and why they draw interest from collectors. Note that precise production tallies are hard to verify from contemporary records, and figures vary by source.
Before listing models, here is a quick guide to what makes a model rare in Edsel terms:
- 1958 Bermuda Convertible — the quintessential rarity among Edsels, prized for its rarity and styling.
- 1958 Corsair Convertible — another scarce variant with limited production, especially in the early release year.
- 1958 Pacer Convertible — uncommon relative to more common body styles, with fewer survivors.
- Other limited-production forms — includes special orders, dealer demonstrators, or prototypes that exist in private collections.
These options illustrate why the Bermuda Convertible is generally singled out as the rarest: convertibles and top-line trims were produced in the smallest numbers during Edsel’s short run.
Other perspectives on rarity
Some enthusiasts point to particular 1959 or 1960 Edsel variants as potentially rarer in specific sub-models or color combinations, but the Bermuda Convertible remains the standard benchmark for rarity in most collections and reference works. The debate underscores how torn the historical record can be for a limited-production era.
Historical notes and how collectors verify rarity
Interest in Edsel rarity has grown in car clubs and auction circles. Collectors often verify with factory records, registry databases, and authenticated surviving examples. The scarcity of Bermuda Convertibles in today’s markets helps explain the premium prices and intense interest when these cars surface at auction.
Summary
In short, the rarest Edsel is the Bermuda Convertible from the 1958 model year, followed by other limited-edition or convertible variants that share the same scarcity profile. The Edsel brand remains a historical cautionary tale about market forecasting, but the Bermuda Convertible stands out as the standout symbol of rarity and collector value.
End of article with a reminder to verify details with reputable registries or clubs when researching Edsel rarity.
What is a 1959 Edsel worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $18,675 for a 1959 Edsel Corsair in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1959 Edsel Corsair? The highest selling price of a 1959 Edsel Corsair at auction over the last three years was $106,400.
What is the rarest Edsel car?
The cars were effectively orphaned, since Ford stopped making parts for Edsels at that point. For its shortened and final model year, a total of 2,571 Rangers and 275 Villager units were produced (all in the U.S.), the rarest models being the convertible (76) and the 4-door 9-passenger Villager wagon (59, the rarest).
What was the top of the line Edsel?
the Citation
The flagship Edsel model line, the Citation was offered as two- and four-door hardtop sedans as well as a two-door convertible. Slotted above the Corsair, the exterior of the Citation was distinguished by additional stainless steel trim and a gold-anodized aluminum cove panel (emulating the Mercury Turnpike Cruiser).
What is an Edsel worth today?
The price of an Edsel car varies widely based on the model, condition, and rarity, with many working models listed between $10,000 and $30,000, and rare or top-condition examples potentially selling for much more. For example, a 1959 Edsel Ranger in good condition might sell for around $15,000-$20,000, while a 1958 Edsel Ranger Roundup could be around $28,000, with a 1958 Edsel Citation in excellent condition valued at $14,900. Extremely rare models like a 1960 Edsel Ranger Convertible have sold for as high as $184,500.
Price examples by model and condition
- 1959 Edsel Ranger: Typically ranges from approximately $10,000 to $23,000 depending on condition and mileage.
- 1958 Edsel Ranger Roundup: A good condition model is often priced around $28,000.
- 1959 Edsel Corsair: A good condition model is typically valued at about $18,675.
- 1958 Edsel Citation: In excellent condition, one is valued at around $14,900, but its highest recorded sale price is significantly higher.
- 1960 Edsel Ranger Deluxe: A good condition example sells for around $15,289, with its highest auction sale in the past three years reaching $20,900.
Factors influencing the price
- Condition: A vehicle's condition is the most significant factor, with "excellent" or "concours" condition cars fetching much higher prices than those in "good" or "average" condition.
- Mileage: Lower mileage generally increases the value of a classic car.
- Model and Rarity: Some models are rarer than others, such as convertibles or certain station wagons, which can impact their value.
- Provenance: The car's history, including who owned it, can influence its price. For example, Edsel B. Ford II's former station wagons sold for record prices due to owner provenance.
- Modifications: Modifications, both tasteful and otherwise, can affect the final sale price.
