The 1960 Edsel Ranger serves as a poignant reminder of one of the shortest model years in American automotive history. Produced for just over a month before the brand was discontinued, these cars represent a sudden and dramatic conclusion to the Edsel story. This specific two-door hardtop is one of only 243 examples ever built in this configuration. Its rarity and museum-kept status make it a highly significant find for any serious collector of independent Ford marques.
Styling the Final Act of the Edsel Brand
The 1960 Edsel Ranger featured a total redesign that moved away from the controversial vertical grille of previous years. This example wears a striking two-tone Turquoise and Polar White finish that accentuates its horizontal, streamlined look. Quad headlights and dual rear antennas provide a classic jet-age aesthetic that felt modern for the time. Chrome bumpers and polished window surrounds frame the car with a level of detail expected from a flagship museum piece.
A Cabin Preserved in Silver and Pebble Cloth
The interior of the 1960 Edsel Ranger offers a high-contrast environment with silver vinyl and black pebble cloth upholstery. Bench seats both front and rear provide ample space for passengers while maintaining a period-correct appearance. Essential comforts like the push-button AM radio and integrated heater remain in place to preserve the original driving experience. The steering wheel frames a clear 120-mph speedometer and a factory analog clock that still commands attention.
Chassis Dynamics and Wide Whitewall Elegance
Underneath the restyled body, the 1960 Edsel Ranger rides on a durable platform supported by 14-inch steel wheels. These wheels are dressed in full Edsel-branded covers and wrapped in wide-whitewall tires that complete the nostalgic silhouette. Braking relies on traditional drums at each corner which provide a predictable and period-accurate stopping feel. This setup ensures that the car remains a comfortable cruiser whether on display or during a weekend journey.
Engine Performance and Dual-Power Transmission Specs
Powering this rare hardtop is a 352ci V-8 engine equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. This powerplant was factory rated at an impressive 300 horsepower and 381 lb-ft of torque for authoritative acceleration. A three-speed Dual-Power automatic transmission handles the power delivery to the rear wheels with smooth transitions. Recent care under museum ownership included routine maintenance to keep the Express V-8 in ready-to-run condition for the late owner’s collection.
Summary of a Rare Hardtop Survivor
The 1960 Edsel Ranger stands as a remarkably rare piece of a brand that disappeared almost as quickly as it arrived. Because so few were produced during the abbreviated 1960 run, finding a two-door hardtop is a significant event for enthusiasts. This car carries the legacy of its Louisville production plant and its subsequent life in a central Ohio museum. It remains an authentic turn-key survivor that captures the very last days of a legendary automotive experiment.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
