Cruisin'
'58 Ford Skyliner
By GREG ZYLA

Q: Greg, I enjoyed your article on the Lincoln retractable, and I agree that I can't remember one either. I have a '58 Ford two-door retractable hardtop convertible. My car needs some work, but it runs fine, the body is solid and the paint fairly new. Can you give me an idea of its worth? I don't want to sell, but am considering a frame off, pro restoration. - T.L., e-mail from Ohio

A: Glad to, T.L. First, your '58 retractable is a unique car and quite valuable. Ford produced this special hardtop convertible in 1957 and 1958 as a Fairlane model and again in '59 as a Galaxie and a Fairlane. All were called Skyliners.

The very least your car is worth in its present condition is probably $15,000 or so. However, you are correct to consider a project with a pro restoration, because your retractable Fairlane is worth in the neighborhood of $48,500 to $55,000 in pristine condition. For comparison, the '59 Galaxie goes for about $32,000 to $68,000 (depending on engine) in show condition. Numbers wise, Ford produced 14,713 of your model, and 12,915 for 1959.

In 1957, although more were produced with a run of 20,766, a two four-barrel carb, 270 horsepower V-8 engine can push the price up to near $70,000 if you can find one in professionally restored condition.

Still, all Skyliners are very valuable and desirable. In ending, if your Fairlane is all there as you say, I, too, would consider the professional re-do. Considering the original price of your car was $3,059, I'd say you are in an enviable position.

Write to Greg Zyla in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853-6475, or send an e-mail to gzyla@ptd.net.

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