The Ford Fairlane was a series of full-sized and mid-sized vehicles between 1955 to 1970. The first-generation was known for flashy styling and the second-generation was famous for tailfins. Among all years, the 1957 model remains an iconic vehicle. Ford Fairlane was available as full-sized sedans, hardtop, station wagons, and convertibles till 1961. Let us see about the 1957 Ford Fairlane.
Multiple Engines
Ford Fairlane was built around different engines. This model came with Y-block V8, Inline-6, and Special Thunderbird V8 engines. Ford Fairlane was another high-speed Ford vehicle with a maximum speed of 125mph. The 57′ model was available with three different transmissions like the 3-speed manual, 3-speed manual with overdrive, and Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission.
Features
The 57′ Ford Fairlane was available as a 6-seater vehicle with a bunch of luxury features. Bench seats, padded dashboard, trunk space, electric clock, AC, tinted glass, and power seats made this a comfortable vehicle. The mechanical features were designed in such a way to improve the ride and enhance the durability. Fairlane featured a retractable hardtop technology which came with 7 electric motors. Another notable technology was advanced front suspension with coil springs and shock absorbers. The vehicle’s dashboard featured a Sweeping speedometer, Jet-inspired controls, and Warning lights.
Designs
Ford Fairlane was a full-sized lightweight vehicle. It had classic styling with wide body, chrome trims, side trims, rear tailfins, and wide front grille. The chromium parts were spread throughout the body especially in bumpers and hood ornaments. Ford Fairlane was available in different colors like pastel, blue, turquoise, gold, red, and white. The vehicle had styling of the Space Age.
Cultural Impact
Ford Fairlane had a massive cultural impact for its designs. The vehicle enjoyed a widespread acclaim post World War II. It became the symbol of American vehicles in the 1950s. Ford Fairlane appeared in numerous period-based movies, TV shows, and documentaries. The sales multiplied after its impact in the media. Ford Fairlane became one of the favorite vehicles of families during the 60s.
A Racing Vehicle
Ford Fairlane surprisingly made its way into motorsports events. It featured in the NASCAR Stock Racing backed by its V8 engines. As it was a lightweight vehicle, it enjoyed a successful run in drag and street racing. Engines, suspension, transmissions, and drivetrain paved the way for Ford Fairlane’s entry in racing. After Fairlane’s entry, other models like Galaxie and Mustang enjoyed their success in NASCAR.
Comfortable Vehicle
With a plethora of features like bench seats, AC, power seats, and radio, the Ford Fairlane was always a comfortable vehicle. When it comes to durability, Ford Fairlane engines and technology ensured it was great. The suspension with coil springs, drivetrain, smooth engines, and gearbox delivered great resistance. Going with Y-Block V8 engines was key as it resulted in excellent torque, performances, and durability. Overall, the durability and comfort of the vehicle was massive.
Affordable Price
The reason for Ford Fairlane’s success was its average pricing. It was sold between $2,500 USD to $3,300 USD. Ford Fairlane enjoyed its reputation as a NASCAR vehicle. It was a sedan with luxury features and this helped in sales. In 1957, around 7.8 Lakh units of Ford Fairlane were sold which was massive. Ford revived its sales after World War II with these models and they captured the market again with muscle cars. Today, Fairlane is available in the collector market at a price between $20,000 USD to $80,000 USD.