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1956 Mercury Medalist: A Testament to Mid-Century Automotive Elegance

The 1956 Mercury Medalist stands as a gleaming testament to the era's automotive ambition, a time when cars were not just modes of transportation but symbols of status and innovation. Born from the assembly lines of the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company, the Medalist was introduced to offer a balance between luxury and affordability. As a post-war creation, it captured the optimism of 1950s America, a period characterized by economic prosperity and technological advancements. The Medalist was particularly notable for being part of Mercury's initiative to penetrate the market with a lower-priced line, making it an interesting chapter in the brand's history.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1956 Mercury Medalist was a feast for the eyes, with its sleek lines and chrome accents that exuded a sense of motion even at a standstill. The vehicle's front grille, with its intricate design and imposing presence, was complemented by the audacious tail fins that were all the rage during that era. Inside, occupants were greeted by a cabin that showcased attention to detail with quality materials such as plush upholstery and elegant trim options.

For its time, the Medalist was equipped with features that were considered technologically advanced, including an optional push-button transmission known as "Merc-O-Matic." Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant hues like Peacock Blue and Classic White two-tone combinations. The most iconic body style was arguably the two-door sedan, which captured the essence of 1950s automotive design.

Historical Significance

The 1956 Mercury Medalist made its mark by offering luxury at a more accessible price point, bridging the gap between Ford's mainstream vehicles and Lincoln's opulence. It played a pivotal role in shaping consumer expectations for what a mid-priced car could offer. Its design elements, from the bold grille to the pronounced fins, influenced automotive trends well into the late '50s and early '60s.

Performance and Handling

The heart of the Medalist was its robust V8 engine, which delivered respectable performance figures for its class. While exact top speed and acceleration times are elusive relics of history, drivers could expect spirited performance that could hold its own against contemporaries. Handling was typical for mid-century sedans—soft enough for comfortable cruising but firm enough to instill confidence on winding roads. The driving experience offered a symphony of mechanical sounds that is now sought after by classic car enthusiasts.

Ownership Experience

The Medalist served various roles from being a reliable daily driver to taking center stage at car shows or even participating in period-correct racing events. Maintenance and reliability were on par with other vehicles of its time, meaning that while some parts may be harder to come by today, it remains relatively straightforward to work on for those familiar with classic car mechanics.

Fun Facts

A little-known fact about the 1956 Mercury Medalist is that it shared many components with other Ford models, making it an interesting study in brand differentiation strategies of the era. While not known for breaking speed records or dominating sales charts, it held its own as a solid performer with respectable endurance. Criticisms often centered around its positioning in an already crowded market segment.

Collector's Information

Today, finding a 1956 Mercury Medalist can be quite an endeavor as production numbers were not as high as those of Ford's flagship models. An educated guess would place production figures in the tens of thousands rather than hundreds of thousands. In terms of value range, well-preserved examples can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 depending on condition and originality. The market has shown appreciation for this model over time due to its unique place in Mercury's lineup.

Conclusion

The 1956 Mercury Medalist is more than just a vintage car; it's a slice of Americana that captures the spirit of an optimistic age. With its distinctive styling cues and historical significance as an accessible luxury vehicle, it remains an attractive option for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're behind the wheel or admiring from afar, this classic Mercury is sure to leave an indelible impression.

1956 Mercury Medalist Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1956 Mercury Medalist 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 Mercury Medalist 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 Mercury Medalist 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 Mercury Medalist 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 Mercury Medalist 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 Mercury Medalist Hood Emblem Pads. 3-1/5" X 3/4" R&L pads-MP 1007-DHood Emblem Pads. 3-1/5" X 3/4" R&L pads. 2-1/2" X 13/16" middle pad. Set

1956 Mercury Medalist Trunk Emblem Pad. Molded in two Pieces-MP 1007-ETrunk Emblem Pad. Molded in two Pieces. 4-1/4" wide X 13-3/8" long. Each

1956 Mercury Medalist Tail-light Pads. 7-1/2" wide X 15-1/8" long. Pair-MP 1007-FTail-light Pads. 7-1/2" wide X 15-1/8" long. Pair

1956 Mercury Medalist Door Handle Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 1-3/4" long. Set R&L-MP 1007-GDoor Handle Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 1-3/4" long. Set R&L

1956 Mercury Medalist Mirror Mount Pad. 1-1/2" wide X 5-1/4" long. Each-MP 1007-HMirror Mount Pad. 1-1/2" wide X 5-1/4" long. Each

1956 Mercury Medalist Glove Box Bumper. Two used per truck. Each-SB 100Glove Box Bumper. Two used per truck. Each

1956 Mercury Medalist Trunk Drain Grommets. Set of four-SMK 64-ITrunk Drain Grommets. Set of four

1956 Mercury Medalist Trunk Seal. Each-TK 42-18Trunk Seal. Each

1956 Mercury Medalist Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and 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.