1956 Ford Fairlane Victoria Coupe (LHD)

Description

The Fairlane started out as Ford’s most expensive model in 1955, replacing the Crestline as the top trim level available ahead of the base Mainline and intermediate Customline. Ford’s 1955 range featured entirely new styling, with longer, lower and wider bodies that are still amongst the best-looking American cars of the period. In fact the styling was so well received that Ford left it largely unchanged for 1956, with only some revised chrome trim differentiating the later cars. Ford did however take the opportunity to freshen up the interior, with a new Thunderbird-inspired instrument panel that had the option of padding for added safety, along with front seat belts for the first time. In fact Ford heavily promoted safety in its marketing as part of the “Lifeguard Design” campaign, touting features like the double grip door latches and recessed steering wheel. One notable improvement for 1956 was the adoption of 12-volt electrics, along with an automatic choke on V8 models. The Fairlane was powered by a 292-cid V8, developing 200 horsepower thanks to a Holley four-barrel carburettor, but could also be ordered with the more powerful 312-cid Thunderbird V8 at additional cost. In addition to the 2-door Club Sedan and 4-door Town Sedan, the Fairlane was also sold as a stylish pillarless coupe, dubbed the Victoria, which sold in Club, Crown and even Skyliner versions (the latter uniquely featuring a transparent roof panel), plus a Sunliner convertible and – new for ’56 – a 4-door version dubbed the Fordor. With its glamorous two-tone paintwork and distinctive chrome side-moldings, the Fairlane Coupe Victoria is a classic mid-Fifties American cruiser.