This 1956 Ford Fairlane Victoria has spent the past two years in storage, but it doesn’t seem to have suffered unduly from the experience. It presents nicely, with the bigger wheels the most obvious sign that there might be more to this classic than meets the eye. It runs and drives, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mike F. for spotting a vehicle that appears to need little to be considered genuinely roadworthy. The seller has listed the Fairlane here on Craigslist in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, with an asking price of $21,000 OBO.

Ford’s First Generation Fairlane range followed prevailing industry trends, enjoying a very short production life. It graced showroom floors in 1955 and 1956, with our feature Fairlane Victoria emerging during the second year. The Trim Tag confirms that it wears its correct original paint combination of Mandarin Orange and Colonial White. The seller doesn’t mention a restoration history, stating that it presents well for its age. It is hard to argue that point, with the paint shining nicely and the panels devoid of significant flaws and imperfections. Rust doesn’t seem to be an issue to cause concern, which isn’t surprising considering it has split its years between its current location and California. The trim and glass show no evidence of major problems, while the larger wheels, Baby Moon hubcaps, and the exhaust exiting via the rear bumper are nice touches that help this classic to stand out.

The seller indicates that the first owner ordered this Fairlane with what they term the Thunderbird Package. That means that it featured the more potent V8 from the T-Bird. However, they don’t elaborate on which of the two engines occupied the engine bay when this car left the factory. That is now irrelevant, with the Fairlane receiving a transplant that saw a 351ci Windsor slotted under the hood. Its specifications are unclear, but with that motor, an automatic transmission, and power steering, it is easy to see why this classic once functioned as a daily driver. This gem has spent two years in storage, although it runs and drives. The seller suggests that it receive a thorough inspection before being considered roadworthy, but it appears that the buyer will be starting from a pretty sound foundation. One reassuring factor is the enormous collection of Service Records, confirming that this Ford has always been appropriately maintained.

The “Orange and White” theme set by this Fairlane’s exterior continues when we turn our attention to its interior. The upholstered surfaces are trimmed in vinyl featuring this combination, with the floor sporting matching carpet. The interior shots can be pieced together to confirm that there are no major trim issues or shortcomings. The painted surfaces look crisp, and the headliner is excellent. There is a hole in the dash where the radio should be, but it, a retro-style stereo, and the fender skirts are all sitting in the trunk for the buyer to install.

If a tidy 1950s classic that isn’t spotlessly original has been on your Wish List, this 1956 Ford Fairlane Victoria deserves a close look. It is the type of vehicle where a thorough inspection and routine maintenance appear to be all that stands between it and providing its new owner with years of motoring joy. The engine upgrade should improve its performance, while the power steering and automatic transmission would make it an effortless driver. The seller’s price sits slightly above the market average, although their willingness to consider offers and negotiate an in-person inspection are both positive attributes. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you?