Meet the 1953 Ford Customline: A Retro Marvel
Picture this: It’s 1953, and the Ford Customline Fordor sedan is rolling off the assembly line, possibly leaving you envious of its classic silhouette and that unmistakable charm. Fast forward, and we find our hero transformed into a beast of a ride, powered by a 5.0-liter V8 heart. This beauty underwent a flashy makeover back in the mid-’90s, and trust me, it wears its new threads well.
Under the Hood
- Engine: The iconic Ford 5.0-liter V8 sourced from a 1993 Mustang GT.
- Transmission: It’s equipped with an AOD four-speed automatic – smooth but ready for the punch.
- Rear End: Sporting an 8.8-inch rear end from a 1995 Mustang GT.
- Cooling: A custom aluminum radiator with an electric puller fan keeps things breezy.
So, whether you’re cruising down memory lane or just looking for a head-turner, this Customline has got you covered. The seller picked it up in 2022 and previously showcased it, making its rounds with enthusiasts eager to get a taste of nostalgia.
Exterior Appeal
Originally draped in Glacier Blue, this classic has been repainted in a dazzling blue complemented by a white roof. Customline and V8 badging give it that extra flair, while chrome bumpers and trim allow it to shimmer under the sun. Here’s what else we found:
- A hood ornament that doesn’t skimp on style.
- A handy driver-side mirror keeping things practical.
- Distinct dual cowl spotlights that may look cool but aren’t wired (yet).
- Spotted rust on the headlight bezels and around the passenger-side rear wheel well, adding a touch of character.
Rolling on Style
Check out those chrome-finished 15-inch Cragar wheels rolled out in 2023, standing tall on Nexen tires. As if that wasn’t enough, the braking system has ditched drum brakes, opting for discs at every corner, utilizing General Motors calipers for a solid grip on the road!
Inside the Classic
Step inside this ride, and you’ll quickly discover it’s a blend of modern comfort and classic design. Here’s the rundown:
- Seating: Procar seats by Scat trimmed in gray vinyl, providing both style and support.
- Interior Layout: A custom center console with four cupholders steals the show.
- Sound System: Bluetooth-capable Custom Autosound head unit that links to Pioneer speakers for your listening pleasure.
- Comfort Features: Equipped with air conditioning and a heater—no more sweating on hot summer drives!
- Carpeting: The black carpets add a sleek touch, while the headliner has been replaced. Yet, the steel dashboard bears some battle scars.
Instrumentation That Speaks Volumes
The steering wheel is a classic four-spoke design, complete with a chrome horn ring to drive home that vintage vibe. Here’s a peek at the gauges:
- 100-mph speedometer, because who doesn’t love a little thrill?
- Readouts for oil pressure, fuel level, coolant temperature, and amperage.
- Now, a little hiccup—the fuel gauge has opted for a more mysterious route and doesn’t work.
- AutoMeter gauges for water temperature, voltage, and oil pressure sit stylishly beneath the dashboard.
The odometer story is quite the puzzler. Initially reported at 81,000 miles, a recent inspection fixed the narrative, revealing it shows 52,000 miles, with the seller claiming roughly 4,000 have been added under their watch. Still, who’s counting?
The Heart of the Beast
Back to the V8 engine, which is not only a powerhouse but also a nostalgic nod to Ford’s early muscle. Here’s the lowdown:
- Displacement: 4,942cc to keep the adrenaline flowing.
- Intakes: Gear borrowed from the 5.0 Cobra style keeps things interesting.
- Electronics: Equipped with a Mustang GT ECU and a Ron Francis Wiring fusebox and harness—because reliability is a must.
- Maintenance: The oil was last changed in 2023 for a fresh start.
Final Words
If you’ve been on the hunt for a classic ride that perfectly balances retro and modern, this 1953 Ford Customline could be your golden ticket. Offered with an owner’s manual, a 1953 Ford brochure, and, of course, a clean Tennessee title, it’s ready for its next adventure. Buckle up and enjoy the ride—this beauty is just waiting for someone to give it a loving home!