Image of 1956 Ford Park Lane Wagon, sourced from blackhawkcollection.com , Image Link.

Engine Specifications
Engine:	292 Y-block V8
Displacement:	292 cu in (4.8 L)
Horsepower:	200-225 hp
Torque:	280-315 lb-ft
Compression Ratio:	8.4:1
Ignition System:	Conventional points ignition system
Cooling System:	Liquid-cooled
Performance Specifications
0-60 Time:	Estimated 10-12 seconds
1/4 Mile Time:	Estimated 17-19 seconds
Top Speed:	100-105 mph
Transmission and Drive
Drive Type:	Rear-wheel drive
Transmission Type:	3-speed manual, optional overdrive, or 3-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic
Fuel and Efficiency
Fuel System Type:	Carburetor
MPG:	Estimated 10-12 mpg
Dimensions and Brakes
Brakes:	Drum brakes
Wheelbase:	115.5 inches
Weight:	3,700 lbs

1956 Ford Park Lane Wagon: A Pinnacle of Mid-Century Automotive Elegance

As the quintessence of 1950s Americana, the 1956 Ford Park Lane Wagon stands as a testament to an era when style and substance went hand in hand. Born from the innovative minds at Ford, this vehicle emerged as a luxury response to Chevrolet's Nomad, offering families a glamorous way to hit the newly minted interstate system. Notably, it was a time when station wagons were symbols of suburban success and weekend adventure.

What sets the Park Lane apart is its brief production run, making it a rare gem in Ford's history. It graced showrooms for a single year, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape with its unique blend of utility and sophistication.

Design and Innovation

The 1956 Ford Park Lane Wagon's exterior was a harmonious blend of form and function, characterized by sleek lines, chrome accents, and a distinctive side trim that exuded motion even at a standstill. Its two-toned paint schemes were particularly eye-catching, with combinations like Meadow Mist Green and Colonial White turning heads.

Inside, passengers were treated to an opulent environment where attention to detail was paramount. The cabin featured high-quality materials such as vinyl and cloth upholstery that could withstand the rigors of family life while maintaining a sense of elegance. Technologically, it boasted advancements like Fordomatic automatic transmission and power steering—luxuries that were cutting edge at the time.

Color options ranged from subdued to vibrant, with Sea Sprite Green and Bermuda Blue being popular choices among buyers. The Park Lane was offered as a two-door station wagon—a body style that perfectly encapsulated the era's love affair with both practicality and panache.

Historical Significance

The 1956 Ford Park Lane Wagon didn't just transport people; it transported the automotive industry into a new realm of luxury-oriented family vehicles. It bridged the gap between utilitarian transport and status symbol, influencing future generations of station wagons. Its limited production run has only amplified its allure in the years since its debut.

Performance and Handling

With a Thunderbird V8 engine under its hood, the Park Lane was no slouch on the open road. It could achieve 0-60 mph in respectable times for its size and era, while its top speed was competitive with other vehicles in its class. The ride quality was smooth, absorbing bumps with grace—a feature that made long family trips more enjoyable.

The sound of its V8 was unmistakably American: deep and confident. Drivers found joy in the vehicle's responsiveness and the commanding view of the road ahead, making every journey memorable.

Ownership Experience

The 1956 Park Lane Wagon was versatile enough to serve as a daily driver or take center stage at classic car shows. Its reliability was on par with expectations of the day, though modern owners should be mindful that maintenance on such classics requires dedication. Parts can be scarce due to its short production run.

Fun Facts

This classic wagon has had its share of limelight with appearances in films and television series set in mid-century America. While not known for breaking speed records, it has certainly set records for desirability among collectors. Criticisms are few but often point to its limited cargo space compared to less luxurious wagons.

Collector's Information

Today, finding a 1956 Ford Park Lane Wagon can be akin to uncovering buried treasure. With only about 15,000 units produced during its one-year run, rarity adds to its value. Well-preserved models can fetch prices north of $30,000 depending on condition and originality, with values appreciating over time as enthusiasts seek out these icons of mid-century design.

Conclusion

The 1956 Ford Park Lane Wagon remains an emblematic figure in automotive history—a beacon of luxury from an age when cars were more than just transportation; they were statements. For collectors and admirers alike, this wagon is not just a vehicle; it's a piece of Americana that continues to captivate hearts across generations.