What is the wheelbase of a 1957 Ford Fairlane?
The wheelbase of a 1957 Ford Fairlane is 118 inches (approximately 3.00 meters).
The 1957 Fairlane was Ford's mid-range full-size model for the model year, part of the broader Fairlane lineup that included the base Fairlane and the higher-spec Fairlane 500. The wheelbase measures the distance between the front and rear axles and is a fixed dimension that influences interior space and ride characteristics. In 1957, Ford generally used a consistent wheelbase across Fairlane variants, with variations mainly in body style and trim levels.
Historical context and design
Understanding the wheelbase sheds light on how Ford balanced interior room with ride quality during the late 1950s, a period marked by long, comfortable American cruisers.
Body styles and geometry
For 1957, the Fairlane was offered in multiple configurations — including two-door and four-door sedans, hardtops, and a convertible — but the wheelbase remained the same across these body styles at 118 inches.
Key specification
Below is the primary wheelbase specification used across the Fairlane lineup for the 1957 model year.
- Wheelbase: 118 inches (about 2997 mm)
This fixed wheelbase helped standardize manufacturing and contributed to consistent ride and interior space across body styles.
Summary
In summary, the 1957 Ford Fairlane uses an 118-inch wheelbase, a hallmark of Ford's late-1950s full-size design that balanced interior room with highway stability. This dimension is useful for restoration, parts compatibility, and historical comparisons.
How long is a 57 Ford?
Exterior Dimensions:
Total Length: 17 ft. 3.5 in. Total width: 6 ft. 5.0 in.
How much is a 1957 Ford Fairlane worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $15,407 for a 1957 Ford Fairlane in good condition with average spec.
What engines were available in the 1957 Ford Fairlane 500?
For 1957, Ford offered four different engines in six stages of tune. At the entry level was a 223-cubic inch Mileage Maker overhead-valve six. There were three sizes of V-8s, which displaced 272, 292, and 312 cubic inches, respectively.
What is the wheelbase of the 57 Ford Fairlane?
116 in
The two Custom lines used a 116 in (2946 mm) wheelbase, while the Fairlanes had 118 in (2997 mm) between the wheels. A new car/pickup truck hybrid based on the short-wheelbase chassis was also introduced, the Ranchero. The 223 CID (3.7 L) OHV straight-six continued, now with 144 hp (107 kW).
