1958 Edsel Pacer

How could anything go wrong? Backed by the latest market research and loaded with space-age glamour, Ford's brand-new 1958 Edsel was destined to make history. Four lines were offered: the Ford-based Ranger and Pacer, plus the Corsair and Citation on a revised Mercury platform. Body styles included sedan, coupes, hardtops, wagons, and convertibles.

'Only Edsel gives you 1958's most talked-about, most exciting styling - with America's first jet-grille design,' enthused an Edsel ad. The 'Jet-Age Aviation Style' interior included 'Teletouch Drive' with pushbutton controls on the steering-wheel hub, a 'Control Center' instrument panel that 'follows aircraft practice,' and 'Control-Center' split front seat. A 361 cubic-inch, 303 horsepower, 'E-400' V8 engine was standard equipment in Ranger and Pacer models.

This Edsel is the sporty Pacer convertible, finished in Ember Red and Black. Options include power steering and power brakes, automatic transmission, and a Town & Country radio with dual antennas. A complete restoration was undertaken over a seven-year period to return the car to an as-new condition.