This 1953 Ford Crestline Sunliner is a red-over-white convertible that was refurbished and modified while under previous ownership, and it was acquired by the current owner on BaT in November 2021. The car is powered by a small-block Chevrolet V8 paired with an automatic transmission, and additional modifications include a dual exhaust system, a lowered ride height, rear air shocks, a Continental kit, painted body trim, aftermarket gauges, air conditioning, and Alpine and Pioneer stereo components. This modified Ford is now offered on dealer consignment with a clean Texas title.
Finished from the factory in Glacier Blue (C), the body was refinished in red under previous ownership and is accented with pinstripes on the hood and fenders. Portions of the factory chrome body trim were painted to match the body, and dual spotlights and non-functional chromed lake pipes have been added. Additional features include a custom grille insert, rear fender skirts, dual mirrors, a power-operated black soft top, and Ford-branded tailpipe finishers.
Red-painted steel wheels wear chrome covers and American Classic whitewall tires. A custom-painted Continental spare wheel assembly is accented with chrome and mounted on the rear bumper. The suspension is lowered, and the car is equipped with rear air shocks and power steering.
The twin bench seats are upholstered in white vinyl, and matching door and kick panel treatments are contrasted by red carpeting. Controls for the air-conditioning system are mounted under the body-color dashboard, and further additions include a turn signal switch, a wheel spinner, a Hurst shifter, and an Alpine CD stereo linked to Pioneer speakers. The dashboard-mounted speaker grill is hand-signed by recording artist Chris Montez.
Replacement Dolphin gauges are recessed within the factory openings, and the digital odometer indicates 152 miles. True mileage is unknown.
The replacement small-block Chevrolet V8 features a red-finished cylinder block and chrome treatments for the air cleaner housing, valve covers, and engine accessories. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an automatic transmission.
Additional photos of the underside are included in the gallery.
The data plate above partially decodes as follows:
- B – 239ci flathead V8
- 3 – 1953 model year
- C – Assembled in Chester, Pennsylvania
- C – Convertible body style
- 142681 – Production sequence
- Body 76B – Crestline Sunliner
- Color C – Glacier Blue exterior finish
- Production 20G – Built on July 20