This Ford Fairlane from the Atomic Age Appears to Be a Jet Fighter on Wheels | Carscoops

      At Miami Art Basel 2017, Paolo Pininfarina designated this Ford as the Judge’s Favorite.

      The Spaceliner is a distinctive 1960 Ford Fairlane featuring a bubble canopy.

      It is equipped with ten (10!) taillights sourced from a 1959 Cadillac.

      The car is still powered by Ford’s original 223 cubic-inch inline-six engine.

      If you squint, you might see the outline of a 1960 Ford Fairlane. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that this car is truly one of a kind. With its bubble canopy and cutting-edge design, this unique vehicle seems more appropriate for a sci-fi film than a regular street. It is set to be auctioned in September as part of Larry Klairmont’s extensive collection, and is anticipated to attract considerable interest.

      Read: A Flying Saucer On Wheels Is About To Hit The Auction Block

      Referred to as ‘The Spaceliner,’ this one-off Fairlane reinterprets mid-century American culture through the perspective of Atomic Age optimism. The lower section of the body resembles that of a Fairlane from this period, featuring the original four circular headlights and chrome front bumper.

      It also retains the iconic sharp shoulder line that runs the entire length of the car and has similar door skins to the original model, although the original door handles have been removed.

      Jet-Age Canopy Meets Cadillac Flair

      The complete cabin of the Ford has been removed, replaced by two jet-fighter-inspired Perspex bubbles over the front and rear seating areas. While these transparent domes likely significantly decrease headroom—especially in the back—they undoubtedly enhance the car's distinctive appearance.

      The entire body of The Spaceliner is coated in a shiny blue hue. The modifications extend to the rear, where ten taillights from a 1959 Cadillac have been installed, contributing to the spacecraft aesthetic.

      Custom Interior With Period Drama

      In line with other vehicles being sold by Mecum Auctions from Klairmont’s collection, this Fairlane's interior is equally extravagant. The dashboard is painted to match the exterior color, and the front and rear seats have been reupholstered in white. Some plush materials have also been added to the dashboard and behind the rear seats.

      Viewing the engine bay reveals that it has been repainted, yet the original 223 cubic-inch inline-six cylinder engine remains intact. This engine continues to connect to an automatic transmission that drives the rear wheels.

      More: The Most Unique Ford You’ve Never Heard Of Looks Like A Jetsons Car

      According to Mecum, the vehicle has been autographed by builders Gene Winfield and Darryl Starbird, and during Miami Art Basel 2017, it was chosen as Judge’s Favorite by Paolo Pininfarina. This custom Fairlane has a mileage of 41,815 miles (67,294 km), but we would be surprised if the next owner does anything other than keep this car in a garage.

      Whether you appreciate chrome, Fords, or cars that appear capable of leaving Earth, this one merits a closer look. Check out the listing here and prepare to reconsider everything you thought you knew about Fairlanes.