1954 Ford Customline V8 Sedan

Description

Ford introduced a fresh model line-up for 1952, the first completely new body since 1949 with three different trim levels on offer - the Mainline, intermediate Customline and upmarket Crestline.  Like its siblings, the mid-range Customline featured a one-piece curved windscreen for the first time, along with the signature triple-bladed ‘spinner’ in the centre of the grille.  Ford added chrome decoration to the window surrounds and rear quarter-panel scoop along with a chrome strip on the front guards, while the Customline’s interior benefited from twin sun visors, door armrests and a chrome horn ring.  American Customline buyers were offered a choice of two engines; either the 215-cid straight six or Ford’s legendary flathead V8 displacing 239-cid and both used the same three-speed manual, with automatic overdrive unit or the Ford-O-Matic transmission both available at extra cost.  The Customline was sold in America dressed in two or four-door sedan bodywork, as a stylish Club Coupe or station wagon, but here in Australia the choice was limited to either sedan or wagons, along with the locally designed Mainline Coupe Utility.  Cars built in Australia where assembled from completely knocked-down kits sourced in Canada but using locally made bodies, updated in line with American models in both 1953 and 1954.  The flathead V8 produced a healthy 110 horsepower and this extra grunt, along with additional passenger space and features, made the Customline a favourite with country drivers and a popular alternative to the Holden of the day, particularly given the competitive pricing.  With plenty of support from local clubs, no shortage of spares and reliable mechanicals, Ford’s Customline enjoys a loyal following and makes a great club car.