1956 Ford Fairlane

This 1956 Ford Fairlane Sunliner is a gorgeous, well-optioned Convertible that makes for a fantastic summer cruiser! Making its debut in 1955, the Ford Fairlane became Fords top-of-the-line passenger car and supplanted the old Crestline models atop Fords hierarchy. Interestingly, the Fairlane nameplate originated from the 1,300 acre Fair Lane Estate belonging to Henry and Clara Ford, located in Dearborn, Michigan. The new Fairlane models were far nicer than the entry-level Mainline or even the mid-level Customline models in terms of features as well as in appearance. The brand new Fairlane bodies were most notably trimmed with a special V shaped side trim along the belt line and they were also noticeably lower, longer, and wider which gave the redesigned Fords a much-needed modernized look. While the 1956 Fairlane models largely retained the same sheet metal from the previous year, their appearances were modestly updated and their overall usability was significantly improved. Likely in an effort to match Chevrolet, the 1956 Ford Fairlanes came equipped with a modern 12 volt electrical system which was a major upgrade to the 6 volt system that Ford had been running since the companys inception at the turn of the 20th Century. The 12 volt electrical system made the 56 Fords start up more reliably and operate more dependably by improving the other electrical systems across the car, such as lighting. Another major improvement was made to the instrument clusters to alleviate customers complaint in 1955 that the transparent speedometer was hard to read. Nonetheless, the updates made in 1956 to the Fairlanes exterior are noteworthy. In the front end, new oval driving lights replaced the antiquated-looking round lenses making for a much more elegant looking nose. The V shaped side trim was also widened just a tad to give the 56 Fairlane more presence, whether parked or cruising down the road. The back end of the 1956 Ford Fairlane also had a much cleaner look thanks to the removal of some chrome trim in the rear. This particular 56 Ford Sunliner comes to us from southern collectors who took great care of this Fairlane while under their stewardship. Powering this 56 Ford Sunliner is a 312 cubic inch V8 engine fed by a single 4 barrel carburetor that together were said to have produced 225 horsepower when new. The 312 V8 is backed by a Ford-O-Matic Automatic Transmission, ensuring that just about anybody can easily take this Ford Fairlane for spin around the block. Exhaust exits the P-Code powerplant via a dual exhaust system that creates a terrifically throaty sound out of the tailpipes. The new-for-1956 12 volt electrical system ensures that both startup is a breeze and overall electrical performance operates with modern efficiency. This 56 Fairlane Sunliner also comes absolutely loaded with options! With power steering, squeezing into a tight parking space at the local ice cream parlor or car show is almost effortless and the overall driving experience is much improved. Further bringing you peace of mind when squeezing into a tight spot, or even making a simple lane change, is a pair of chrome outside mirrors that greatly improve visibility. Bringing this 225 horsepower Ford to a complete stop is also easy thanks to the addition of power brakes. Dual chrome spotlights, along with front and rear deluxe bumper guards, further add significant 50s flair to this 1956 Ford Convertible. Riding on a set of wide whitewall tires mounted on painted steel wheels and full Ford wheel covers, this 56 Sunliner Convertible has a fantastic look whether youre parked at the local drive-in or cruising to the local car show. Additionally, the rear wheels are tucked behind a set of color-matched fender skirts that are easily removable should you prefer the car without them. The chrome and brightwork around the exterior of this classic Ford looks great and really elevates the cars high-end luxury look. The white vinyl power convertible top is in great shape and is raised and lowered with ease, all with the simple flick of a switch. And, when the top is in the lowered position, it tucks neatly below a red body color-matched convertible top boot cover. The steel body of this 1956 Ford Sunliner has been correctly refinished in Fiesta Red over Colonial White paint, just how it came off the Kansas City factory line back on March 21, 1956. Like the exterior, the interior of this 1956 Ford Fairlane Sunliner Convertible looks fantastic! The front and rear bench seats have been re-done correctly in two-tone Red and White upholstery that retains the correct stock pattern. The color-matched door panels, painted dash, red carpeting, and steering wheel all look to be in wonderful shape as well and all retain a nice stock look. Youll also be able to stay cool on a hot summer day since this 56 Ford Sunliner has been upgraded with a modern air conditioning system mounted neatly under the dash. The instrument cluster comes equipped with a 120 MPH speedometer, temperature gauge, and fuel gauge, along with a clock and indicator lights for oil pressure and generator function. The dash is finished off with an AM radio, locking glovebox, and various controls for the car. Whether youre buying your first classic car or youre adding to your existing collection of Fords, this 1956 Ford Fairlane Sunliner Convertible would make an excellent choice. Give Ellingsons a call today at 763-428-7337!