Meet the 1953 Ford Customline Club Coupe
Acquired back in 2013, this stunning 1953 Ford Customline Club Coupe didn’t just sit around collecting dust. Oh no, it underwent a comprehensive makeover that spanned an impressive eleven years. Let’s break down what went into this beauty, shall we?
Refurbishment Highlights
- Body Modifications: A complete body overhaul, including a dazzling new paint job in blue and white pearl with a metallic flake that could make any car enthusiast weak at the knees.
- Interior Upgrades: The custom interior was meticulously re-trimmed to match the dashing exterior.
- Suspension Lowering: A lowered suspension not only gives it a sleek profile but also improves handling.
- Braking System: Power-assisted disc brakes were added for that extra layer of safety and response.
- Powertrain: Say hello to a 351ci Windsor V8 engine that works in harmony with a four-speed overdrive automatic transmission, plus an 8.8″ rear axle featuring a limited-slip differential, 31-spline axles, and 3.73:1 gears.
- Wheels: Chrome smoothie-style wheels take this classic to a whole new level.
- Extras: From a billet serpentine drive system to ceramic-coated headers and Flowmaster mufflers, this car has got it all. There’s also an Edelbrock intake manifold paired with a 650-cfm carburetor, Vintage Air climate control, a stereo with Bluetooth capability, AutoMeter instrumentation, and even power windows.
Now it’s time to pass the keys! The modified Ford Customline is up for grabs, complete with an Ohio title registered in the seller’s name.
Exterior Features
Taking a closer look at the exterior, the car showcases a refreshing repaint in that eye-catching blue and white, all finished off with a sumptuous pearl clearcoat and Roth metallic flake. But wait, it doesn’t stop there!
- Headlight Brows: 1956 Ford Thunderbird headlight brows have been meticulously molded into the fenders.
- Modern Touches: The 1956 Oldsmobile taillight lenses with LEDs are a major upgrade.
- Body Adjustments: The rear filler panel has been narrowed, the upper door corners are rounded, and the drip rails and door handles have been shaved for that polished look.
- New Glass: Both the glass and weather stripping have been swapped out, adding to the fresh feel of the ride.
- Custom Grille: A one-of-a-kind grille, electric wipers, and cat-eye modern headlights complete the exterior makeover.
However, a little note of caution: the left door isn’t perfectly aligned, and you’ll find a few paint imperfections in the upper corner. Hey, perfection is overrated, right?
Wheels and Suspension
The finishing touch? Chrome smoothie-style wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich wide whitewall tires. This car rides on a lowered suspension equipped with Monroe Magnum shock absorbers while enjoying top-notch stopping power provided by power-assisted drilled and slotted discs.
Interior Elegance
Once you step inside, the interior is just as flashy as the exterior, decked out in blue and white upholstery. This ride includes:
- Comfortable Layout: A center console housed with high-tech features.
- Audio System: A stereo system that’s Bluetooth-capable, perfect for blasting your favorite tunes.
- Climate Control: Vintage Air keeps things as cool as can be.
- Safety Features: Adjustable lumbar support for the driver’s seat along with lap belts found front and rear.
- Trimming: The trunk is custom-trimmed to match the interior. Classy!
Dashboard and Controls
Taking the helm, you’ve got a two-spoke steering wheel that has been cleverly modified with a Chevrolet spline, mounted to a Chevrolet-style tilting column. The dashboard features an AutoMeter speedometer that goes up to 120 mph along with some auxiliary gauges. That’s right, only 636 miles have turned since the completion of this impressive build. Talk about low mileage!
The Powerplant
Now let’s talk about the heart of this classic. You’ll find a smooth engine bay hiding a powerful 351ci Windsor V8. It comes jam-packed with:
- Drive System: A billet serpentine drive system for a neat and tidy appearance.
- Ignition: Electronic ignition paired with chrome dress-up parts.
- Cooling System: A three-core aluminum radiator equipped with dual electric fans, ensuring it runs cool under pressure.
- Recent Service: According to the seller, the fluids have been serviced recently, so you know you’re getting a reliable ride.
Power flows smoothly to the rear wheels courtesy of a four-speed overdrive automatic transmission and an 8.8″ rear axle, complete with a limited-slip differential, 31-spline axles, and those spirited 3.73:1 gears. The dual exhaust system sounds glorious thanks to the Flowmaster mufflers.
Show Off Your Ride
This impressive machine has not only hit the streets but has also graced the stages of several events, even snagging a “Ford Country: Top 20” award at the Pumpkin Run Nationals in 2024. With an Ohio title listing an “Exceeds Mechanical Limits” brand, do you think you could handle all the attention this Ford Customline is bound to get? We think so!