A singular vision of mid-century futurism, the 1960 Ford Spaceliner, is set to captivate collectors at Mecum Auctions' Larry's Legacy 2025 event on September 20, 2025. This one-of-a-kind custom concept car, built upon a 1960 Ford Fairlane, embodies the boundless optimism and technological dreams of the Atomic Age. Its design, featuring a striking bubble-top canopy and a rear jet turbine motif, speaks to an era captivated by the promise of the future. The Spaceliner's aesthetic is a vibrant testament to its time, boasting a turquoise metal flake exterior that shimmers with the era's flair. The interior complements this with a white finish accented by period-correct fur. Adding to its otherworldly presence, the rear of the vehicle is adorned with ten taillights from a 1959 Cadillac, artfully arranged to evoke the appearance of powerful jet thrusters.
This unique vehicle is the product of collaboration between custom car pioneers Scott Wiley, Gene Winfield, and Darryl Starbird. While the Spaceliner may not have made a significant impact at its initial unveiling at the 1960 World Fair, its enduring design later garnered prestigious recognition. It was honored as Paolo Pininfarina's Judge's Favorite at Art Basel Miami in 2017, highlighting its artistic merit and lasting appeal. Powering this automotive artifact is a 223 cubic-inch six-cylinder engine, a nod to the era's engineering capabilities. The Spaceliner represents more than just a custom car; it is a tangible piece of automotive history and a powerful symbol of design innovation. Its journey from a concept of the Atomic Age to a celebrated piece of art underscores the enduring human fascination with progress and the future. The car's unique construction, including electrically actuated twin canopies made from actual aircraft parts and a seamless passenger side with welded-shut doors, further cements its status as a remarkable custom build. The signatures of Winfield and Starbird on the dashboard serve as a direct link to the legends of custom car culture, adding another layer of historical significance. The Spaceliner's presence at Mecum's Larry's Legacy auction offers a rare opportunity to acquire a vehicle that not only represents a specific moment in automotive design but also embodies a broader cultural narrative of aspiration and forward-thinking.