Estimate: $30,000-$40,000 US

Sold: $30,800

130bhp, 239 cu. in. V8 engine, three-speed manual transmission with overdrive, independent front suspension with…, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 115.5"

The arrival of the 1954 Ford models marked the end of the long-running and beloved flathead V8 engine. Its replacement was the modern, overhead-valve “Y-block”, so called by virtue of its deep crankcase design, and while it also displaced 239 cubic inches, the new engine produced 20 more horsepower in its basic form. The Y-block, which was enlarged and further developed over the years, helped Ford overtake archrival Chevrolet in sales for 1954, and continued to power Ford’s passenger cars until 1962.

Styling for 1954 continued the lines of the wider, lower 1952 body redesign with very few changes. Mechanically, Ford models adopted a ball-joint front suspension, which greatly improved ride and handling. Meanwhile, the basic Ford chassis was carefully refined with a wheelbase length that increased by just one-half inch. The appropriately named Crestline Sunliner Convertible topped the Ford model line in 1954, with a starting price of just $2,164 with a six-cylinder engine. The V8 engine option added just $77 to the purchase price and greatly improved drivability and performance.

The example offered here is a mostly original car, with approximately 33,000 miles believed to be from new, and a single repaint. While a few small blemishes are revealed upon closer inspection, the finish is attractive overall, complemented by a well-fitted black convertible top with smart red piping, as well as very good brightwork. Accessories include bumper guards, skirted rear fenders, an extended Continental Kit, and dual exhaust outlets. The Sunliner rides on period correct red painted steel wheels with full bright wheel covers and wide whitewall tires. The interior retains its original red and white vinyl upholstery with a newer carpet that was installed by the previous owner, and while the engine and underhood area are not detailed, they do retain their original colors and finishes.

The current owner describes this handsome Sunliner Convertible as a very enjoyable and attractive automobile that is ideal for top-down driving enjoyment. What’s more, this classic Ford convertible is equipped with power steering and a three-speed manual transmission with optional overdrive, allowing comfortable operation on today’s highways. For those seeking an attractive, honest, and mostly original car, this one is just the ticket.