Image of 1959 Ford Sunliner, sourced from www.americanmusclecarmuseum.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1959 Ford Sunliner is a gleaming testament to the era of tailfins and chrome, a time when automotive design was as much about fashion as it was about function. Hailing from the storied production lines of the Ford Motor Company, this convertible was a shining star in the late 1950s American car market. Amidst the backdrop of post-war optimism and the space race, the Sunliner emerged as a symbol of American prosperity and technological prowess. A unique fact that car enthusiasts may find fascinating is that the '59 Sunliner featured a new, galactic-inspired grille and rear design that mirrored the country's fascination with space exploration.

Design and Innovation

The 1959 Ford Sunliner boasted an exterior styling that was bold and unapologetically futuristic. Its long, sleek lines culminated in pronounced tailfins that seemed ready to slice through the air, while round taillights mimicked rocket thrusters. The interior was equally impressive, with plush seats upholstered in high-quality materials that invited passengers to sit back and enjoy the ride. Technologically, it featured innovations like a "Cruise-O-Matic" three-speed automatic transmission and power-operated top for effortless convertible bliss. The color palette ranged from understated to vibrant, with Colonial White and Indian Turquoise being among the popular choices. While several body styles were available, including sedans and wagons, it was the Sunliner convertible that captured hearts with its blend of open-air freedom and stylish presence.

Historical Significance

The 1959 Ford Sunliner left an indelible mark on automotive history with its daring design elements that would influence car aesthetics for years to come. It stood out from its contemporaries by offering luxury features at a more accessible price point, democratizing style and comfort for the American public. The Sunliner's legacy can be seen in how it paved the way for future generations of cars to balance practicality with panache.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1959 Sunliner housed a robust powertrain capable of delivering commendable performance for its time. With engine options like the 352 cubic inch V8, it could achieve a top speed that thrilled weekend cruisers and made it no slouch on the highways. The acceleration from 0-60 mph was respectable, propelling drivers forward with a satisfying surge. Handling-wise, it navigated bumps with grace thanks to its soft suspension setup while maintaining composure on windy roads. Driving a Sunliner was an auditory delight as well; the engine's rumble was music to any gearhead's ears.

Ownership Experience

The 1959 Ford Sunliner found its place in various roles ranging from a cherished daily driver to a treasured show car. Its reliability was typical of American cars of the era—sturdy but requiring regular maintenance to keep it cruising smoothly. For average owners, repairs were generally straightforward due to the simplicity of design and widespread availability of parts.

Fun Facts

A few intriguing tidbits about this classic include its cameo appearances in films and television shows set in its heyday, adding authenticity to period pieces with its iconic silhouette. While not known for breaking speed records, it certainly broke sales records for Ford during its production run. Despite criticisms over fuel efficiency—a common issue among cars of this period—the Sunliner remains beloved by enthusiasts.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors cherish the 1959 Ford Sunliner for its nostalgic appeal and design significance. While exact production numbers are elusive, estimates suggest tens of thousands were produced. In terms of value range, pristine examples can fetch upwards of $50,000 or more at auction depending on provenance and condition, while project cars might be found for considerably less. The market trend shows appreciation over time as these vehicles become rarer and more sought after by collectors.

Conclusion

The 1959 Ford Sunliner is more than just a vintage vehicle; it's a rolling piece of Americana that captures the spirit of an optimistic age. Its combination of style, innovation, and performance makes it an enduring favorite among classic car aficionados. Whether cruising down Main Street or parked at a local car show, this Ford continues to turn heads and stir hearts as it did more than six decades ago.

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

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

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

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

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

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

1959 Ford Sunliner 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 Sunliner 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.