The 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 is a timeless classic that exemplifies the automotive design and engineering of the late 1950s. With its stylish looks, robust performance, and a variety of body styles, the Fairlane 500 remains a beloved vehicle among classic car enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the details of this iconic model and explore the specifications and performance of its various variants.
Overview of the 1958 Ford Fairlane 500
The Fairlane 500 was positioned as a premium model in the Ford lineup, offering enhanced luxury and performance. Named after Henry Ford’s estate, the Fairlane 500 featured distinctive styling cues, including quad headlights, a prominent grille, and elegant chrome accents. It was available in multiple body styles to cater to different customer preferences.
Variants and Specifications
Fairlane 500 Club Sedan
Specifications:
- Engine Options:
- 223 cubic inch (3.7L) Mileage Maker I6
- 292 cubic inch (4.8L) Thunderbird V8
- 332 cubic inch (5.4L) Interceptor V8
- 352 cubic inch (5.8L) Thunderbird Special V8
- Transmission Options:
- 3-speed manual
- 3-speed automatic (Ford-O-Matic)
- Overdrive manual
- Dimensions:
- Length: 208.1 inches
- Width: 77.6 inches
- Height: 57.0 inches
- Wheelbase: 118 inches
Performance:
- Horsepower: Ranged from 145 hp (I6) to 300 hp (Thunderbird Special V8)
- Top Speed: Approximately 110 mph (depending on engine)
- 0-60 mph: Between 8.5 to 12 seconds
Fairlane 500 Club Victoria
Specifications:
- Engine Options: Same as the Club Sedan
- Transmission Options: Same as the Club Sedan
- Dimensions: Same as the Club Sedan
Performance:
- Horsepower: Same as the Club Sedan
- Top Speed: Same as the Club Sedan
- 0-60 mph: Same as the Club Sedan
Fairlane 500 Skyliner
Specifications:
- Engine Options: Same as the Club Sedan
- Transmission Options: Same as the Club Sedan
- Dimensions:
- Length: 211.0 inches
- Width: 77.6 inches
- Height: 57.0 inches
- Wheelbase: 118 inches
Performance:
- Horsepower: Same as the Club Sedan
- Top Speed: Approximately 110 mph
- 0-60 mph: Between 8.5 to 12 seconds
Fairlane 500 Town Victoria
Specifications:
- Engine Options: Same as the Club Sedan
- Transmission Options: Same as the Club Sedan
- Dimensions: Same as the Club Sedan
Performance:
- Horsepower: Same as the Club Sedan
- Top Speed: Same as the Club Sedan
- 0-60 mph: Same as the Club Sedan
Detailed Analysis
Fairlane 500 Club Sedan
The Club Sedan variant was a popular choice for families looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle. With its range of engine options, it catered to different performance needs, from the economical I6 to the powerful V8s. The spacious interior and comfortable ride made it a great choice for long drives.
Fairlane 500 Club Victoria
The Club Victoria, with its hardtop design, offered a sportier look and feel compared to the Club Sedan. It shared the same engine options and performance characteristics, but its design appealed more to those looking for a blend of style and practicality.
Fairlane 500 Skyliner
The Skyliner was a standout model with its retractable hardtop roof, a marvel of engineering at the time. It combined the comfort of a hardtop with the open-air experience of a convertible. The Skyliner was slightly longer than other variants, providing a more luxurious feel.
Fairlane 500 Town Victoria
The Town Victoria was another hardtop model, similar in design to the Club Victoria but often featuring more upscale interior options. It offered the same performance and engine choices, making it a stylish and practical option for buyers.
The 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 remains a symbol of 1950s automotive excellence. Each variant, from the Club Sedan to the Skyliner, offered unique features and performance capabilities, ensuring there was a Fairlane 500 for every type of driver. Whether you’re drawn to the innovative Skyliner or the classic charm of the Club Sedan, the Fairlane 500 is a true classic that continues to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world.
