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1956 Plymouth Plaza: A Testament to Post-War Optimism

The 1956 Plymouth Plaza stands as a beacon of post-war American automotive design, a testament to an era when cars were more than just a means of transportation; they were symbols of freedom and progress. Born from the industrious halls of the Plymouth division of Chrysler Corporation, this vehicle emerged during a time when America was riding the wave of post-war prosperity. The Plaza was Plymouth's entry-level model, offering affordability without sacrificing style or innovation. It was during this period that Plymouth made a significant mark on the automotive landscape, and the '56 Plaza played its part in shaping that legacy. A notable moment in its history includes being one of the first cars to offer a push-button automatic transmission, showcasing Plymouth's forward-thinking approach.

Design and Innovation

The 1956 Plymouth Plaza's exterior styling was a harmonious blend of function and flair. Its lines were clean yet exuded a sense of motion even at a standstill, with modest tail fins hinting at the jet-age influence that was sweeping car design. The interior was crafted with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials that could withstand the rigors of everyday use while still providing comfort. Technological features such as an optional AM radio and heater were considered luxuries at the time. Color options ranged from understated single tones to vibrant two-tones, with shades like "Mist Green" and "Plaza Blue" being popular choices among buyers. The Plaza came in various body styles including sedans, coupes, and wagons, with the two-door Suburban wagon being particularly iconic.

Historical Significance

The 1956 Plaza didn't just represent an affordable vehicle choice; it embodied the democratic ideal that quality cars should be accessible to the masses. It stood out for its balance between economy and style, influencing future designs by proving that entry-level did not have to mean basic or unattractive. The Plaza's legacy is seen in how it paved the way for the compact yet stylish models that would follow in subsequent decades.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood, the 1956 Plymouth Plaza boasted a reliable flathead six or an optional V8 engine that delivered respectable performance for its class. While top speed and acceleration figures may not compete with today's standards—the V8 models could reach 0-60 mph in about 12 seconds—the driving experience offered by the Plaza was one of steady assurance. Handling was straightforward, with drivers appreciating its predictability on various road conditions. The ride quality spoke of solid construction; there was an unmistakable heft to it that conveyed durability.

Ownership Experience

The 1956 Plaza served many roles—from daily commuting workhorse to weekend show car—and occasionally even found its way onto local racetracks. Owners found maintenance relatively straightforward thanks to simple mechanicals and ample space under the hood. Reliability was one of its strong suits, but when repairs were needed, parts were readily available and affordable.

Fun Facts

Among enthusiasts, it's rumored that some Plazas were owned by celebrities of the era who sought understated elegance over flashy opulence. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set sales records for Plymouth as one of their most popular models at the time. Criticisms were few but typically centered around its conservative approach compared to flashier competitors.

Collector's Information

Today, finding a 1956 Plymouth Plaza can be a treasure hunt with production numbers estimated in the tens of thousands across all body styles. As for value range, well-preserved models can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on condition and originality—though prices can vary widely based on market interest. The trend has been toward appreciation as nostalgia for 50s Americana continues to grow among collectors.

Conclusion

The 1956 Plymouth Plaza may not have been the flashiest car on the block, but it represented something far greater: an accessible piece of American innovation and design. It stood as proof that practicality and affordability could go hand-in-hand with style—a philosophy that resonates even today among car enthusiasts and collectors alike.

1956 Plymouth Plaza 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 Plymouth Plaza 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 Plymouth Plaza 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 Plymouth Plaza Cowl Vent Seal. 3-1/4" wide X 16-7/8" long-RP 100-WCowl Vent Seal. 3-1/4" wide X 16-7/8" long. Replaces OEM #1593468. Each

1956 Plymouth Plaza Trunk Seal. Each-TK 64-16Trunk Seal. Each

1956 Plymouth Plaza 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 Plymouth Plaza 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 Plymouth Plaza 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 Plymouth Plaza 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 Plymouth Plaza 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.