Small Block-Powered 1953 Ford Crestline Sunliner

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Charles Griffin’s lifelong love affair with American cars began at sixteen when he restored a dusty blue Studebaker. The passion he had for that car followed him through the rest of his life. Over the years, the scale of his garage and projects grew in step with his love for cars. Ultimately, Charles built his own restoration paradise, complete with a paint room, body shop, show room and features that most gearheads only dream about. His sanctuary became a second home to his family and friends. The selection of fine automobiles offered here represents the passion, drive, and memories that Charles shared. Hagerty Marketplace is honored to present the Griffin Collection, offered entirely without reserve.  

* * *  

“The Crestline Sunliner — where elegance meets the open road.” The 1953 Ford Crestline Sunliner was a stylish and popular full-size convertible that embodied the optimism and flair of early 1950s American automotive design. As part of Ford’s top-tier Crestline series, the Sunliner was the flagship convertible, offering upscale trim and features that appealed to buyers seeking both performance and elegance. 

1953 marked Ford’s 50th anniversary, and the company celebrated with subtle styling updates and commemorative badging. The Sunliner featured a sleek, low-slung profile with a power-operated soft top, chrome accents, and a wraparound windshield—modern touches that gave it a sophisticated look. Under the hood, it came standard with Ford’s reliable 239 cubic inch flathead V8 engine, producing 110 horsepower, paired with either a manual or Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission. 

Inside, the Sunliner offered spacious seating for six and upscale materials, including two-tone vinyl upholstery and a full dashboard with chrome trim. It was a favorite among young drivers and families alike, combining open-air driving with comfort and style. 

With over 40,000 units sold in 1953, the Crestline Sunliner helped solidify Ford’s reputation for producing affordable yet aspirational vehicles. This Sunliner is powered by a Small Block Ford V8 with an automatic transmission. 

Highlights 

• Offered from The Griffin Collection 

• Finished in blue with a two-tone blue and white leather interior 

• Power-operated white Breezeway vinyl top  

• Powered by a Small Block Ford V8 

• Automatic transmission 

Features 

• Ford “Jet Airplane” hood ornament 

• Push-button Ford Super Range AM Radio 

• Chrome bumpers, front and rear 

• Driver’s side exterior rear-view mirror 

Known Imperfections 

• Please note that all of the lots in The Griffin Collection have been stored in a climate-controlled facility for four years without operation. The Hagerty Marketplace Team has confirmed that this vehicle starts and runs, however, as a result of their extended static display, all lots will benefit from additional mechanical attention before being driven to address any imperfections associated with long-term storage or individual preferences. All lots are sold as is, where is.

• Hood on passenger side near windshield is slightly uneven with body panels

• Front and rear window cranks on driver side loose

Included

• 1952-54 Ford Wiring Manual 

• Owner’s Manual 

• 1953 Ford Brochure 

Ownership History 

This 1953 Ford Crestline Sunliner is offered from The Griffin Collection of no reserve automobiles.    Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.  

Contact: Cason Vogel  Phone: 904.504.7848  email: cvogel@hagerty.com