Image of 1959 Ford Fairlane, sourced from www.autobarnclassiccars.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1959 Ford Fairlane glimmers as a quintessential icon of American automotive prowess, a testament to the era's boundless optimism and design innovation. Birthed by the Ford Motor Company, this classic cruiser emerged during a time when tailfins and chrome were the language of the road. The Fairlane, named after Henry Ford's estate, "Fair Lane," was not just another car; it was a statement of luxury and progress. A unique fact that car enthusiasts may find fascinating is that the '59 Fairlane introduced the innovative "Skyliner" model featuring a retractable hardtop, blending the best of convertible and hardtop worlds in one sleek package.

Design and Innovation

The 1959 Ford Fairlane boasted an exterior that was nothing short of a stylistic symphony, with its long, sweeping lines and pronounced tailfins that epitomized the era's space-age obsession. The car's visage was dominated by a bold grille and quad headlights that promised a futuristic driving experience. Inside, passengers were enveloped in an ambiance of sophistication with plush seating and high-quality materials like vinyl or optional two-tone cloth upholstery. Technological marvels of its time included power steering and brakes, along with Ford's Cruise-O-Matic transmission. The Fairlane came in a palette of colors, with Colonial White and Indian Turquoise being among the popular choices. Body styles ranged from sedans to convertibles, but it was the Skyliner with its retractable hardtop that captured imaginations.

Historical Significance

The 1959 Ford Fairlane stands as a monument to post-war American automotive design. It broke away from its predecessors with more angular lines and audacious features that would influence generations of cars to come. Its Skyliner model was particularly groundbreaking as it offered an early example of blending technology with design to enhance user experience—a principle now central to modern car manufacturing.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1959 Fairlane housed a robust engine lineup, including the formidable Thunderbird Special V8, propelling it to top speeds that could flirt with the 120 mph mark. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in under 10 seconds for some models—a notable feat for its size. On the road, the Fairlane handled with grace; its suspension smoothed out imperfections while maintaining composure in windy conditions. Drivers reveled in the throaty rumble of the V8 engine—a sound synonymous with American power—and enjoyed a driving experience that was both responsive and comfortable.

Ownership Experience

The Fairlane found its place as a versatile vehicle suitable for daily driving, weekend cruising, or even as a show-stopping classic at car meets. Maintenance was straightforward for the era's mechanics, making it a reliable choice for those who wanted a piece of history without constant garage visits. However, as with any vintage vehicle, keeping it in pristine condition today requires dedication and sometimes deep pockets.

Fun Facts

A lesser-known tidbit about the 1959 Ford Fairlane is that some models were equipped with "Swing-Away" steering wheels to facilitate easier entry and exit for the driver. While not setting any official speed records, this model did race into popular culture, appearing in films and television shows of its time—and even now—as an emblem of '50s Americana. Despite criticisms over fuel economy—a common issue among cars from this period—the Fairlane remains beloved by enthusiasts.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors cherish the 1959 Ford Fairlane for its nostalgic charm and historical significance. While exact production numbers are elusive, estimates suggest tens of thousands rolled off assembly lines. In terms of value range, well-maintained examples can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to over $50,000 depending on condition and originality—with Skyliner models often commanding premium prices due to their rarity and unique retractable roof feature.

Conclusion

The 1959 Ford Fairlane is more than just metal, glass, and rubber—it's a rolling sculpture representing an era where cars were designed with passion and driven with pride. As we look back on this gleaming chapter in automotive history, we're reminded that innovation is timeless—and so is style.

1959 Ford Fairlane Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high-BN 12Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high., with 3/4" I.D. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 19Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/4" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Front Stabilizer Bar Bushings. Four used per car-BN 32Front Stabilizer Bar Bushings. Four used per car. 1-3/4" long X 1-5/16" wide X 1-9/16" high, with 5/8" hole. Pair

1959 Ford Fairlane Front stabilizer bar to frame bushings-BN 32-FFront stabilizer bar to frame bushings, '59-'66 Ford and Mercury passenger car, station wagon and sedan delivery models, pair. Replaces OEM # B9A-5493-B.

1959 Ford Fairlane Door, Hood and Trunk Bumper Cap for adjustment bolt-HA 6Door, Hood and Trunk Bumper Cap for adjustment bolt. 1-1/16" O.D. X 1/2" I.D. X 7/16" thick. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Hood Bumper. Each-HF 1Hood Bumper. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each-HF 40Hood Bumper. Made with steel core. Held by screw. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Antenna Pad. 1-1/4" wide X 3-5/8" long. Each-MP 780-DAntenna Pad. 1-1/4" wide X 3-5/8" long. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Tail-light Gaskets. 2-Pieces, 35" long. Pair-MP 800-BTail-light Gaskets. 2-Pieces, 35" long. Pair

1959 Ford Fairlane Trunk Lid Bumper. Two used per car. Each-SB 31Trunk Lid Bumper. Two used per car. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Front Fender Lower Rear Plug and Door Vent Adjustment Plug-SB 58-AFront Fender Lower Rear Plug and Door Vent Adjustment Plug. Fits 1-5/16" hole. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Trunk Seal. Each-TK 42-18Trunk Seal. Each

1959 Ford Fairlane Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track-VS 4Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track. this foot with no steel insert. Pair

1959 Ford Fairlane Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long-VS 6Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long. Pair

1959 Ford Fairlane Vertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.-VS 6/FTVertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.

1959 Ford Fairlane Rigid division-bar channel-WC 28-96Rigid division-bar channel. Made with stainless steel bead, heavy steel core and pile lining. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1959 Ford Fairlane Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 7-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.