Image of 1956 Ford Customline, sourced from www.classicautomall.com , Image Link.

1956 Ford Customline: A Testament to Mid-Century Automotive Charm

The 1956 Ford Customline stands as a gleaming testament to the era of chrome, tailfins, and optimistic American design. Birthed in the bustling post-war period, the Customline emerged from the Ford Motor Company's assembly lines as a symbol of accessible luxury and style. Notably, it was during this time that Ford was celebrating its 50th anniversary, a milestone that added a special aura to its lineup. A unique fact about the Customline is its role in popularizing the V8 engine among everyday motorists, setting a standard for performance that would echo throughout automotive history.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1956 Ford Customline was a harmonious blend of function and flair. Its sleek, straight lines and modest tailfins captured the essence of mid-century modern aesthetics. The car's broad grille and distinctive round headlamps exuded confidence, while chrome accents added a touch of sophistication. Inside, passengers were greeted by a spacious cabin adorned with durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Technological features like the optional Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission and power steering were considered cutting-edge at the time. Color options ranged from classic black to vibrant two-tone combinations, with hues like Peacock Blue and Colonial White being among the favorites. Body styles included sedans, coupes, and station wagons, but it was the two-door Victoria hardtop that stole the hearts of many car enthusiasts.

Historical Significance

The Customline's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It helped bridge the gap between utilitarian post-war models and the extravagant vehicles of the late '50s. The integration of V8 power in an affordable family car democratized performance and hinted at America's growing love affair with horsepower—a trend that would define an entire generation of muscle cars.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1956 Ford Customline housed a robust 272 cubic inch (4.5-liter) Y-block V8 engine capable of propelling it to impressive speeds for its time. While exact figures vary, top speeds approached 100 mph with acceleration from 0-60 mph achievable in under 10 seconds—a commendable feat for a family sedan of that era. On winding roads or when encountering bumps, drivers appreciated its predictable handling characteristics, thanks in part to its sturdy body-on-frame construction. The driving experience was characterized by a throaty exhaust note and a smooth ride that made long journeys enjoyable.

Ownership Experience

In its heyday, the Customline served various roles from dependable daily transportation to weekend showpiece. Today, it’s cherished in classic car circles for its nostalgic appeal and relatively straightforward maintenance. Reliability is one of its strong suits; however, sourcing parts for restoration can be challenging but rewarding for dedicated owners.

Fun Facts

The Customline has graced many collections over the years, including those owned by celebrities and notable public figures. It may not have set speed records but certainly made its mark in sales volume and cultural impact. Criticisms were few but typically centered around its conservative styling compared to flashier competitors.

Collector's Information

Today's collector market sees the 1956 Ford Customline as a desirable piece of Americana. While production numbers were substantial—with estimates suggesting over hundreds of thousands units built—pristine examples are becoming increasingly scarce. Values range significantly based on condition and originality but expect well-maintained models to fetch anywhere from $15,000 to $35,000 or more at auction. The market trend shows appreciation for these vehicles as they become rarer and more sought after by enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The 1956 Ford Customline is more than just a car; it's a slice of American history on wheels—a representation of an era defined by optimism and innovation. With its enduring style and commendable performance credentials, it continues to captivate collectors and classic car aficionados around the world.

1956 Ford Customline Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 19Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/4" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1956 Ford Customline Stabilizer Bar Bushing. 1-1/2" high, 3/4" I.D. Pair-BN 27Stabilizer Bar Bushing. 1-1/2" high, 3/4" I.D. Pair

1956 Ford Customline Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 6Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D. X 1/2" high, with 3/8" I.D. Each

1956 Ford Customline Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads-CB 90-BClutch and Brake Pedal Pads. For models with standard transmission. 2-1/4" wide X 3-1/4" long. Pair

1956 Ford Customline Brake Pedal Pad. Correct reproduction of a difficult part-CB 90-CBrake Pedal Pad. Correct reproduction of a difficult part. 2-1/2" wide X 4-1/2" long. Each

1956 Ford Customline Hood Bumper. Each-HF 8Hood Bumper. Each

1956 Ford Customline Roof Rail Seals Two 6' pieces. No steel insert. May fit some models Pair-LP 110-BRoof Rail Seals. No steel insert. May fit some models. Two 6' pieces. Pair

1956 Ford Customline Door Handle Pads. 2-1/2" long & 1-1/2" long. Set R&L-MP 716Door Handle Pads. 2-1/2" long & 1-1/2" long. Set R&L

1956 Ford Customline Mirror Pad. 1-1/2" wide X 7-5/8" long. Each-MP 996-EMirror Pad. 1-1/2" wide X 7-5/8" long. Each

1956 Ford Customline Mirror-on-door mounting pad. Fits models with 6-3/8 in-MP 996-RMirror-on-door mounting pad. Fits models with 6-3/8 in. long mirror base. 1-1/2 in. W x 6-5/8 in. L. Each.

1956 Ford Customline Clutch and Brake Arm Bumpers. Top quality reproduction-RP 31-KClutch and Brake Arm Bumpers. Top quality reproduction. Pair

1956 Ford Customline Spark Plug Wire Retainer Grommet. Each-SM 30-BSpark Plug Wire Retainer Grommet. Each

1956 Ford Customline Trunk Drain Grommets. Set of four-SMK 64-ITrunk Drain Grommets. Set of four

1956 Ford Customline Trunk Seal. Each-TK 42-18Trunk Seal. Each

1956 Ford Customline Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track-VS 4Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track. this foot with no steel insert. Pair

1956 Ford Customline Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long-VS 6Vertical Seals for Vent Window. Each piece is 17" long. Pair

1956 Ford Customline Vertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.-VS 6/FTVertical Seal for Vent Window. Sold by the foot.

1956 Ford Customline Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 7-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.