352 Express V8, Dual-Power 3-speed transmission, 2.91:1 axle ratio
Edsel number
700008 manufactured in Louisville, KY on August 7, 1959
Owner:
Worldwide Auctioneers
"As was common practice in the industry back in the late 1950s and well into the 1980s, toward the end of a model year,
a few test cars from the next model year were taken down the assembly line to test construction techniques and to remedy
any issues that might come up before regular production got underway. These test cars were known as pilot models. From
historical research, it appears that 12 to 15 pilot Edsels were assembled at Ford�s Louisville assembly plant which is
where nearly all domestic production of the Edsel took place after February 1958. The bright Regal Red Ranger convertible
we are pleased to offer is the only known surviving Louisville pilot convertible left and has been restored to its original
colorful condition by our consignor, Mike Brogan. Acquired in the mid-1980s, it was recognized as an early production car.
Once restoration got underway in 1990, little items were found that indicated how historically important this car might be.
The body was stripped to bare sheet metal and professionally restored with new panels only as needed. Strict adherence
to authenticity was the main ingredient in its restoration. The interior has been replicated with original Moroccan
grain vinyl in Edsel�s unique pattern, and everything mechanical has been completely rebuilt. Original equipment
includes power steering and power brakes, power windows and a remote trunk release. Since its completion over 30
years ago, this car has been campaigned at multiple Edsel shows and many events in the Southeastern United States
where it has consistently taken numerous Best of Show, First Place and People�s Choice honors and still carries its
original data plate showing its unit number as 00008. Our consignor is a collector of many cars, but over the years
this Regal Red Ranger convertible remains his all-time favorite and when not being shown or exhibited, is securely
stored in climate-controlled private garage. This is an exciting opportunity to own a piece of automotive history
marking the first time this important 1960 Ranger convertible has ever been offered at public auction."
Location:
Auburn, Indiana
Owned since:
unknown
Mileage:
unknown
Condition:
Show Car
Originality:
Stock
Accessories included:
Power Steering, Power Windows, Power Brakes, Radio, Dual Exhaust, Exhaust
Deflectors, Spotlight Mirrors, Rear Deck Antennae, Wheel Covers with Spinner,
Rocker Panel Moldings, Windshield Washer, Continental Kit
Notes:
From the Worldwide Auctioneers' web site (auction is set for April 22-23, 2022):
Information as of:
February 2009
Owner:
Howard Harris
2009 Update by Rushffan:
Location:
Griffin, Georgia
Owned since:
1989
Mileage:
unknown
Condition:
Restored Show Car
Originality:
unknown
Accessories included:
Power Steering, Power Windows, Power Brakes, Radio, Dual Exhaust, Exhaust
Deflectors, Spotlight Mirrors, Rear Deck Antennae, Wheel Covers with Spinner,
Rocker Panel Moldings, Windshield Washer, Continental Kit
Notes:
Body-off restoration with mostly NOS factory parts. Winner of many Best of
Show awards including the 1994 Grand Nationals in Dayton, Ohio, where it bested 175
other Edsels in judging.
This car is currently for sale on the Florida Edsel site, Edselworld.com, for $195,000. It was
also featured on The Sunday Morning Show on CBS in July, 2008.
Information as of:
December 1988
Owner:
George Taylor
Location:
Georgia
Owned since:
unknown
Mileage:
unknown
Condition:
In restoration
Originality:
unknown
Accessories included:
Power Steering, Power Windows, Power Brakes, Radio, Dual Exhaust, Exhaust
Deflectors, Spotlight Mirrors, Rear Deck Antennae, Wheel Covers with Spinner,
Rocker Panel Moldings, Windshield Washer, Continental Kit
Notes:
Currently in a frame-off restoration.