Concept Car Of The Day: 1953 Ford Syrtis - AllCarIndex
Support our project
Help us to keep our content free by donating.
Your contribution helps cover technical costs and continue our research.
Help us to keep our content free by donating.
Your contribution helps cover technical costs and continue our research.
In a grand reveal at a press preview of Ford Motor Company's new Styling Building in Dearborn, Michigan, the first true hardtop convertible design for a sedan was unveiled. Ford engineers pulled back the curtain on their newest creation, a three-eighths scale convertible model called the "Syrtis."
This innovative design featured an all-steel "Roof-O-Matic" top that could be lowered into the luggage compartment. The rear window was specially hinged, offering three different positions for maximum versatility. Earle S. MacPherson, Ford's vice-president of engineering, explained that the Syrtis was just one of many advanced styling ideas being developed for future Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles.
The revolutionary mechanical principles behind the Roof-O-Matic mechanism and the design of the body and frame were groundbreaking in the automobile industry. While the future incorporation of this design in Ford vehicles was not yet determined, Mr. MacPherson emphasized that there was a significant demand for such a concept.
The all-steel roof offered numerous advantages, such as greater safety, durability, and reduced noise. It also allowed for full sedan seat-room in a two-door convertible, a feature unheard of at the time. The Roof-O-Matic top could be operated with simple controls and provided all the comfort and snugness of a traditional hardtop car.
From tiny micro-light headlight openings to a central pylon containing push-button controls for the automatic transmission, the Syrtis was packed with innovative styling features. The sleek, chrome-trimmed design was a sight to behold, blending form and function seamlessly.
While the incorporation of the Roof-O-Matic mechanism into future Ford vehicles was still in the research and development phase, the Syrtis was a glimpse into the future of automotive design. With its advanced features, versatility, and stunning aesthetics, the Syrtis was a true testament to the collaborative efforts of Ford's stylists and mechanical engineers.
