What year did Ford make the retractable hardtop?
Ford introduced its retractable hardtop in 1957, marking a significant innovation in automotive design. This feature allowed drivers to seamlessly convert their vehicle from a closed-roof sedan to an open-air convertible at the push of a button.
The Retractable Hardtop: A Pioneering Automotive Feature
The retractable hardtop was a technological marvel when it first debuted. It enabled drivers to enjoy the open-air experience of a convertible while maintaining the structural integrity and weatherproofing of a traditional hardtop. This innovative design was the result of years of research and development by Ford's engineering team.
The Year Ford Introduced the Retractable Hardtop
Ford's retractable hardtop made its debut in 1957 as an option on the Ford Skyliner model. The Skyliner was the first mass-produced car to feature this cutting-edge technology.
The retractable hardtop mechanism was a complex engineering feat, with numerous moving parts and intricate hydraulic systems. It allowed the entire roof to fold and retract into the trunk, seamlessly transforming the vehicle from a closed-roof sedan to an open-air convertible.
The Impact of the Retractable Hardtop
The introduction of the Ford Skyliner with its retractable hardtop was a game-changer in the automotive industry. It demonstrated Ford's commitment to innovation and their ability to push the boundaries of what was possible in car design. The Skyliner's popularity and critical acclaim paved the way for other automakers to follow suit and develop their own retractable hardtop models in the years to come.
The retractable hardtop feature remained an option on the Ford Skyliner until the model's discontinuation in 1959. While it was not as widely adopted as some other automotive innovations, the Skyliner's retractable hardtop stands as a testament to Ford's engineering prowess and their willingness to take risks in pursuit of creating a truly unique driving experience.
What years did Ford make a retractable hardtop?
The Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner is a two-door full-size retractable hardtop convertible, manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company for model years 1957–1959. However, early into the 1959 model year, its name was expanded to Fairlane 500 Galaxie Skyliner.
How much is a 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $15,386 for a 1957 Ford Fairlane in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1957 Ford Fairlane? The highest selling price of a 1957 Ford Fairlane at auction over the last three years was $33,000.
What is the value of a 1959 Ford Skyliner?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $26,350 for a 1959 Ford Galaxie Skyliner in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1959 Ford Galaxie Skyliner? The highest selling price of a 1959 Ford Galaxie Skyliner at auction over the last three years was $105,300.
How many 1959 Ford Skyliners were made?
12,915
Production totaled 20,766 units in 1957, declining to 14,713 in 1958 and to 12,915 in 1959. An electric clock was standard.
What is the most rare Ford?
The 50 cars all in the teeth orange paintwork. The same as the original. There are some visual cues like the Saturn black spoiler.
How much is a 1957 Ford Skyliner worth?
The value of a 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $32,400 for a 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner in good condition with average spec.
Why did the 1957 Ford Edsel fail?
While Ford's market research had indicated that these and other features would make Edsels attractive to them as car buyers, their selling prices exceeded what buyers were willing to pay. Upon seeing the price for a base model, many potential buyers simply left the dealerships.
How many 1957 Ford Retractable were made?
20,766 units
Production totaled 20,766 units in 1957, declining to 14,713 in 1958 and to 12,915 in 1959. An electric clock was standard.
What was the first car with a retractable hardtop?
1935 Peugeot purchased Paulin's patent, and introduced the first factory production, power-operated, retractable hardtop in 1935, the "402BL Éclipse Décapotable", of which some 470 were built.
Did Edsel have a retractable hardtop?
Super Express V-8 and DualDrive automatic transmission, the most desirable powertrain combination in any 1959 Edsel. Thanks to the excellent maintenance during its time in the Calumet Collection, the car runs and drives well, and the retractable hardtop has been serviced to function as new.
