1954 Ford Crestline Skyliner

By 1954, the domestic automakers were getting into the swing of the ’50s and seeking out ways to set themselves apart. For Ford, the biggest news was the new overhead-valve Y-block V8 that replaced its longstanding side-valve engine.

But there was more, and today’s Pick of the Week focuses on a short-lived option that came straight from the aerospace industry.

The 1954 Ford Crestline Skyliner was a new model with a unique feature: a transparent Plexiglass panel that replaced the front half of the stylish hardtop roof, allowing sunlight to illuminate the front-seat occupants.

The green-tinted roof panel was designed to let in filtered light, Ford said, while blocking 60 percent of the heat and 70 percent of the glare. A practical option was a sunshade that fit inside.

This example advertised on ClassicCars.com is described by the seller in Fredericksburg, Texas, as “an unrestored original car that is still in darn good shape.” Just 44,435 miles are showing on the odometer, the seller adds. “The glass roof is in terrific shape with only the common hazing around the perimeter.

“The interior is amazing. It looks totally original with the old-timey plastic covers over the front and rear bench.”

The Skyliner had the same upmarket trim accents as that year’s Victoria model, and this one has been fitted with dual exhaust, fender skirts and working spotlights.

The price is set at $27,500, which seems entirely reasonable for such a rare beauty in good original condition.

“This car would make someone a great original cruiser or would benefit from a full restoration,” the seller states. “You can imagine how rare the Skyliner model is. How many have you seen?”