Vehicle Description
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 Ford's top-of-the-line
passenger car and supplanted the old Crestline models atop Ford's
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 company's 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
Fairlane's 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 you're 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 car's 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. You'll 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 you're buying your first classic car
or you're adding to your existing collection of Fords, this 1956
Ford Fairlane Sunliner Convertible would make an excellent choice.
Give Ellingson's a call today at 763-428-7337!
*312 Cu. In. V8
*Single 4 Barrel Carburetor
*225 Horsepower
*Ford-O-Matic Automatic Transmission
*Power Brakes
*Power Steering
*Modern Updated Air Conditioning
*Correct Fiesta Red/Colonial White Exterior
*Correct Red/White Bench Seat Interior
*White Vinyl Power Convertible Top
*Stock Instrumentation w/ Aux Gauges
*Odometer Reads: 22,660 Miles
