Custom show-car builders often utilize signature
parts of various makes and models to style their creations, sort of a
Frankenstein approach that generally yields a masterpiece rather than a
monster-piece. Though not always.
The Pick of the Day definitely falls in the masterpiece category, a 1956 Ford Victoria artfully customized as a gleaming show car. This custom Ford, named Star Dust, has parts from Chevy, Mercury, Studebaker, Buick, even Edsel.
Spot the Edsel parts? Four of the famous horse-collar grille centers have been installed, laid horizontally, two in the front echoed by two in the rear to produce a striking design statement.
The middle of the grilles, front and rear, come from a 1959 Buick, with the grille surround made from 1953 Studebaker splash pans. The taillights come from a 1955 Mercury station wagon, and the rear fender skirts are embellished with chrome spears from a 1953 Mercury.
The Ford was originally customized by Frank and
John Balzano of Bristol, Rhode Island, who were well-known for creating unique
cars for both show and go, some of their builds designed for the drag strip
rather than the car show circuit.
This car – which by the way was featured in August 2016 in the My Classic Car column of ClassicCars.com – is offered by a private owner from Riverwoods, Illinois, who said the car has been featured in a number of custom-car magazines over the years, has won numerous top awards, and remains in immaculate condition.
Almost three years later, the same owner is advertising the Ford for sale on ClassicCars.com.
The Mercury Metallic Blue paint looks excellent in the photos, as do the numerous chrome pieces. The roof is covered in rolled-and-pleated custom upholstery that reflects the extravagant custom interior. The trunk and spare-tire cover are similarly trimmed.
Although some gauges and the audio system have
been updated, there’s still a 45-rpm record player from the original build. The
car also retains some of the touchstone custom accessories of the period, such
as lake pipes and spinner hubcaps.
The coupe is powered by a 312 cid Thunderbird V8
with three 2-barrel Holley carbs and heavily chromed, linked with a 3-speed
manual transmission with a floor shifter. The car is said to run and drive perfectly.
Star Dust is priced at $65,000, with offers considered, the ad says.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
Being a Chevy guy, must admit, this one has it. In my book the 50’s was the best decade for the "look"
Pleated roof? That’s a first for me. I’ll bet the car hauler is equally spectacular.
Edsel grilles look better here than on Edsels.
That roof and back end would be deal killers for me!
Bob
Hey think we can see a story on a Canadian 1966 Meteor Rideau and Montcalm? There is a lot of mystery surround this car. For instance did you know the hood ornament of a 64 Park Lane which is super rare to find is the same as the 66 Montcalm? It’s the only year they came with this particular ornament and much more rare to find. I could go on but I’m sure you guys would no more.