Ford Victoria, Red, for sale in Charlotte, North Carolina, for $23,995.

Ford was hitting on all eight cylinders in 1955, and the dazzling Fairlane Victoria hardtop was every bit a match for the all-new Chevys. With trendsetting design that still resonates today and a very nice restoration, this red over white Victoria is exactly the kind of '50s car that you can drive and show with the best of them.

Dressed in code ER Snowshoe White over Torch Red, there is no better demonstration of 1950s style than this gorgeous Fairlane. Chrome, paint, fins, it's all there in perfectly proportioned doses that created one of the most memorable cars of the era. The body is straight and restored to stock condition, but the finish is nicer than anything Ford could manage in 1955. The paint is expertly applied and glitters with a larger-than-life style that is so bright you almost need to shield your eyes. Note that the usual trouble spots such as the headlight buckets and lower pan under the bumper are in exceptional condition, indicating a clean, rust-free car from the beginning. And on any '50s car, the chrome restoration costs can be staggering, and it looks like someone has already spent big getting this one into shape. From the grille flanked by round parking lights, to the trademark body trim, it is all in excellent condition.

With the original seats dressed in comfortable two-tone red cloth and cream leather, the interior is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. Correct red carpet with the proper weave has been used, and it's covered by strangely appropriate clear floor mats. The original dash has been restored, and you'll note that the domed speedometer with its Plexiglass window echoes the unit found in the Thunderbird. The cool round AM radio is still nestled in the dash, flanked by the heater controls on the left and a clock on the right, along with a trio of auxiliary gauges underneath. In back, the cleanly finished trunk offers a reproduction mat and a full-sized spare tire.

The venerable Y-block Ford V8 under the hood, which replaced the famous flathead in 1954, was a big step forward. With smooth power and impressive torque, it moves the Fairlane easily with a great V8 burble from the tailpipes. The engine bay is sanitary and shows signs of regular maintenance, and it is closer to original than show piece, but that also means it's reliable and ready to drive. The original Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission is an eager dance partner, and the chassis is impressively original and very solid. The floors are solid, the frame shows zero signs of accident damage, and things like the brakes and exhaust system appear to be relatively recent. Whitewall radials are a nice choice, but I think if this were my car, I'd dress it up with a set of correct wide whites.

For a fraction of the price of a comparable Chevy, you can own this spectacular Ford, complete with V8 power and a gorgeous cosmetic restoration. Call today!