Image of 1956 Chrysler New Yorker, sourced from www.classicautomall.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1956 Chrysler New Yorker stands as a testament to American automotive excellence, a gleaming jewel of post-war optimism and engineering prowess. Born from the storied assembly lines of the Chrysler Corporation, this vehicle not only captured the essence of 1950s luxury but also heralded the dawn of a new era in design and powertrain development. A notable moment in its history was when it introduced the first pushbutton automatic transmission, setting a trend for convenience features in automobiles.

Design and Innovation

With its bold, sweeping lines and imposing grille, the 1956 New Yorker exuded confidence and sophistication. The exterior styling was a masterclass in chrome and fins—a hallmark of the era's love affair with space-age aesthetics. Inside, passengers were cradled in opulence with rich fabrics and top-tier materials that defined luxury. Technological marvels of its time included power steering, power brakes, and the aforementioned pushbutton PowerFlite automatic transmission. The color palette ranged from elegant single tones to dramatic two-tones, with hues like Cloud White and Regimental Red being popular choices among discerning buyers. This classic came in several body styles, but it was the St. Regis hardtop coupe that captured hearts with its iconic tri-tone paint job.

Historical Significance

The New Yorker's impact on automotive design was profound; it helped cement Chrysler's reputation for innovation and luxury. Its Hemi V8 engine set it apart from competitors, offering unmatched performance that would influence muscle car design in the decades to follow. The 1956 model year also marked a pinnacle of sorts for Chrysler's Forward Look design philosophy under the guidance of legendary stylist Virgil Exner.

Performance and Handling

The heart of the 1956 New Yorker was its 354 cubic inch FirePower Hemi V8 engine, which delivered a robust 280 horsepower. This powerplant propelled the car to impressive speeds for its time, with a top speed nearing 120 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph in just under 10 seconds—a remarkable feat for such a luxurious vessel. On the road, the New Yorker handled with grace despite its size, absorbing bumps with ease while maintaining composure on windy roads. Drivers reveled in the symphony of its engine and the solid yet comfortable ride it provided.

Ownership Experience

The New Yorker served various roles from a prestigious daily driver to a coveted show car that turned heads at every corner. Its reliability was commendable for the era, though today's collectors might find maintenance requires a bit more effort due to parts scarcity. Nonetheless, those who cherish these machines find great joy in their upkeep.

Fun Facts

This classic has seen its share of limelight with rare editions such as the St. Regis and even celebrity ownerships adding to its allure. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own as a symbol of affluence and style. Criticisms were few but did include its hefty fuel consumption—a small price to pay for such grandeur.

Collector's Information

In today's market, a well-maintained 1956 Chrysler New Yorker can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to over $60,000 depending on condition and originality. Production numbers were not as low as some limited-run vehicles, but finding one in pristine condition is becoming increasingly rare. As interest in mid-century Americana grows, so too does the value of these vehicles—making them both an emotional investment and a potential financial one.

Conclusion

The 1956 Chrysler New Yorker is more than just a car; it's a rolling piece of art that encapsulates an era of boundless optimism and technological ambition. Its legacy is etched into every chrome line and felt in every purr of its Hemi V8—a true classic that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D-BN 20Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D. X 1-5/8" high, with 9/16" I.D. Each

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D-BN 8Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high, with 3/4" I.D. Each

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates-FS 31Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates. Apply with contact cement. 18" long X 9-3/4" wide at bottom. Pair

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 7-3/4" I.D. Pair-HR 14Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 7-3/4" I.D. Pair

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Trunk Seal. Each-TK 64-16Trunk Seal. Each

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Rear Roll-up Window Seals, for Hardtops and Convertibles-VS 7Rear Roll-up Window Seals, for Hardtops and Convertibles. For leading edge of rear quarter windows. Two pieces, 17-3/4" long. Pair

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Rear Roll-Up Side Quarter Window Seals (fits some models)-VS 7-BRear Roll-Up Side Quarter Window Seals (fits some models). Pair R&L

1956 Chrysler New Yorker 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.

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Rigid division-bar run channel-WC 31-96Rigid division-bar run channel. Made with very soft felt lining. Used on front and rear door side windows. 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.

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Rigid division-bar channel. Unbeaded. 96 in. long. Each-WC 41-96Rigid division-bar channel. Unbeaded. 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.

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 4-96Flexible 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.