Image of 1958 Ford Sunliner, sourced from www.fastlanecars.com , Image Link.
Performance Metrics
Fundamental Metrics
Emotional Appeal
MMP Rating
Engine Specifications | |
---|---|
Engine Options: | Interceptor V8 |
Displacement Range: | 352 cu in (5.8 L) |
Horsepower Range: | 300 hp at 4600 rpm |
Torque: | 395 lb-ft at 2800 rpm |
Compression Ratio: | 10.2:1 |
Ignition System: | Conventional breaker-point ignition system |
Cooling System: | Liquid-cooled |
Performance Specifications | |
0-60 Time: | 9.2 seconds |
1/4 Mile Time: | 17 seconds |
Top Speed: | 115 mph |
Transmission and Drive | |
Drive Type: | Rear-wheel drive |
Transmission Type: | 3-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic |
Fuel and Efficiency | |
Fuel System Type: | Single 4-barrel carburetor |
MPG: | 10-12 mpg |
Dimensions and Brakes | |
Brakes: | Drum brakes |
Wheelbase: | 118 in |
Weight: | 3,700 lbs |
Note: Specifications for classic cars are given to the best of our ability, considering the limited and variant data available.
Introduction
The 1958 Ford Sunliner invites you to relive the exuberance of the late 1950s, a time when automotive design was as much about style as it was about substance. Born from the ambitious minds at Ford Motor Company, the Sunliner emerged as a beacon of American optimism, capturing the spirit of an era through its flamboyant aesthetics and forward-thinking features. Notably, this convertible model became a symbol of leisure and luxury, distinguishing itself with a power-operated retractable top that was a marvel of its time. Its release coincided with America's economic boom, making it an emblem of prosperity and the open-road lifestyle.
Design and Innovation
The 1958 Ford Sunliner's exterior is a testament to the era's fascination with jet-age influence. Its long, sweeping lines and pronounced tailfins echoed the nation's fascination with space exploration and speed. The front grille presented a bold, square-jawed face complemented by dual headlamps that gleamed like eyes set on the future. Inside, passengers were cradled in a cabin that showcased Ford's commitment to comfort, with plush seating and high-quality materials that ranged from soft vinyl to rich textiles. The dashboard housed an array of dials and controls that were state-of-the-art for their time, including innovations like the optional "MagicAire" heating system.
Color options for the Sunliner were vibrant and varied, reflecting the buoyant mood of the decade. Popular choices included Seaspray Green, Colonial White, and Torch Red. Among body styles, the convertible Sunliner stood out as an icon of leisurely elegance. It wasn't just a car; it was an experience—a statement on wheels.
Historical Significance
The 1958 Ford Sunliner played a pivotal role in cementing Ford's reputation for combining luxury with everyday utility. It broke away from conservative post-war designs and embraced a bolder aesthetic that would influence automotive trends for years to come. The Sunliner also marked one of Ford's early forays into creating vehicles that offered more than just transportation—they offered an experience that was synonymous with freedom and joy.
Performance and Handling
Underneath its stylish hood lay a choice of powertrains, with engines ranging from the reliable inline-six to the more robust V8 options. The latter could propel the Sunliner from 0-60 mph in respectable times for its era. Top speeds were competitive, allowing drivers to savor the thrill of open-top motoring on America's burgeoning highway system. Handling was typical of large American cars of the time—soft and comfortable rather than sporty. The ride quality was smooth, absorbing bumps with ease while providing passengers with a serene cruising experience.
Ownership Experience
The 1958 Ford Sunliner found its niche among those seeking a stylish daily driver or weekend cruiser. As a show car, it turned heads with its distinctive looks and nostalgic charm. Maintenance was straightforward by modern standards, making it accessible for enthusiasts to keep in top condition without specialized knowledge or tools.
Fun Facts
A little-known tidbit about the '58 Sunliner is its cameo roles in films and television shows that sought to capture the essence of its time. While not known for setting speed records or dominating racetracks, it did find fame in driveways across America as a cherished part of many families' lives.
Collector's Information
Today, collectors cherish the 1958 Ford Sunliner for its embodiment of '50s Americana. While production numbers were substantial—with tens of thousands made—pristine examples have become rarer over time. Values can vary widely based on condition, originality, and provenance; however, well-maintained models can fetch anywhere from $30,000 to upwards of $60,000 or more at auction or private sale.
Conclusion
The 1958 Ford Sunliner stands as a monument to an optimistic age when cars were designed with passion and driving was an event unto itself. It remains not just a mode of transport but a vessel carrying memories of a bygone era—a tangible link to America's golden age of automotive craftsmanship.
1958 Ford Sunliner Catalog of Parts
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