1955 Ford Fairlane Crown Victoria

When Ford debuted its new top-of-the-line Crown Victoria in 1955, the dazzling new model – featuring a chrome “tiara” traversing its svelte roofline – was an instant success.

Formerly part of the famed Jim Miller collection, this exceptional example was lovingly restored from a solid California car prior to its 2009 concours debut. A high level of detail is seen in each aspect of the restoration – correct panel fit, engine compartment with appropriate wiring, clips, and stamps – to ensure this would be one of the finest Crown Victorias in the world when completed. The impressive list of factory options on this car includes Select Aire air-conditioning (new for 1955), power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, AM radio, fender skirts, stainless wire wheel covers, correct bias-ply whitewall tires, Ford-O-Matic transmission, and Westinghouse bumper-mounted driving lights. The mirror-gloss, salmon-hued Buckskin Brown and Snowshoe White paint is striking, and is complemented with matching interior accented with sparkling chrome trim.

The current owner reports that the Crown Victoria has been carefully driven less than 500 miles since restoration, mostly on test drives and at shows. It was displayed at the prestigious Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance in 2009, and at the 2010 Antique and Classic Car Club of Canada, scoring 99 points. This fabulous Ford represents a high point in 1950s American automotive styling and a rare opportunity for the astute collector.