Car:

Year: 1955

What makes it special: The Ford Fairlane Customline was produced with the same body and little variation for model years 1955 and ’56. For model year 1957, the body was made longer and sleeker. It was given a new body style for the 1955 model year as competition to Chevrolet, yet was still very much like the 1952 underneath. For 1955, like most models from other manufacturers, the Fairlane was given a Panoramic windshield, giving the driver even more visibility.

What made it famous: For the 1955 model year, Ford’s Mileage Maker Inline-6 engine was given more horsepower as a 120hp, 233 cu in, and the famed Y-Block V8 was now available in two sizes, in either a 162hp, 2-barrel, 272 cu in with single exhaust as the standard engine, and a 182hp, 4-barrel dual exhaust version as an option. You could also check off the optional 193hp, large 292 cu in Thunderbird V8 as well.

Why I would want one: I love Fairlanes. For a boxier version of the model, this car still has lots of style and can be either classy or set-up for a nice street rod.

Fun fact: For the first time, seat belts were offered as a dealer option, and Ford’s first factory-installed “Select-Aire” air conditioning.

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Car: Ford Mustang Convertible

Year: 1966

What makes it special: Ford’s first generation Mustang ran from 1964 to 1973. Mustang introduced the world to the Pony Car classification, known for their long nose / short rear deck body style. It took the buying public by storm, proving not only wildly popular but also inspiring competition from other manufacturers. The initial year, Mustang was available as a Hardtop, Convertible, and a Fastback version appeared shortly afterwards. The original Mustangs shared underpinnings with the Ford Falcon model, even though Falcon was designated a Compact car. Gone was the Ford Falcon instrument cluster, and now round gauges and padded sun-visors were standard equipment.

What made it famous: A new grille, trim changes, side ornamentation, wheel covers and gas cap were part of the changes that debuted on the Mustang for the 1966 model year. The 289 “HiPo” K-Code V8 was offered with a C4 automatic transmission, but the C4 could also be available for the 225hp, 289 V8 as well. New paint and interior color options were now available, as well as an AM/Eight-Track sound system, and one of the first AM/FM Mono radios were offered for 1966.

Why I would want one: Actually had one, although the Hardtop Coupe model. Loved it, would do it again in less than a heartbeat.

Fun fact: Mustang would become the best-selling convertible in 1966, beating out Chevrolet’s Impala model.
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