In the 1950s, Plymouth got on a kick naming some of its cars after snappy hotels. That’s where the Plaza, Savoy, and Belvedere monikers came from. From 1955 to 1956, the Savoy was the middle trim level, much like the 210 over at Chevrolet. This 1956 Savoy 4-door sedan has just had mechanical and interior work done, so it should be ready to go. Located in Newberg, Oregon, this prequel to the finned wonders of 1957 is available here on craigslist for $8,500. Our Northwest sleuth, “Curvette”, turns in another cool tip!
As a preview of things to come, the 1956 Plymouths got a slight styling refresh that included tiny fins on the rear. They would grow many folds over in 1957 and led the industry in embracing that styling cue for the next several years. The standard engine in 1956 was a 230 cubic inch L-head inline-six that was good for 125 to 130 hp. The venerable Slant-Six was still years away from its arrival and claim to fame in 1960.
This 70-year-old car would probably have an interesting tale to tell – if it could talk. The body and paint look great, so a repaint would be likely. The interior features new upholstery, door panels, carpeting, and the headliner. The flathead-6 has been treated to a new head gasket, carburetor, gas tank, some brake parts, and a tune-up at 89,000 miles. The end result is a nice-looking and running car that might be a great first vintage auto for someone starting out.
If you look closely, you’ll see push-button controls for the automatic transmission, which was new to the cars in 1956. And it would be a Chrysler staple through 1964. Before you comment pro or con on the asking price, consider what the cost of the listed work would have been if you had it done after buying the car. This is a nice sedan, as long as four doors don’t bug you.
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