When it comes to the question of a known ownership history, this 1956 Ford Fairlane Sunliner comfortably ticks that box. It has been part of the same family since Day One, moving from one generation to the next throughout its fifty-nine-year lifespan. However, the time has come for a new chapter in its story to be written, with the family deciding that it needs to head to a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Scott for spotting the Sunliner listed here on Craigslist in Cashmere, Washington. You could become its new owner once you have handed the family $25,000.
Ford introduced the Fairlane as its replacement for the Crestline in 1955, with the First Generation remaining on sale until the end of 1956. Our featured Sunliner is a second-year model that is remarkably well-preserved. It rolled off the lot finished in Meadow Mist Green and Colonial White with a matching White soft-top. The seller doesn’t mention a restoration history, suggesting that this Ford could be a genuine survivor. Its condition is noteworthy if that is the case, because the paint exhibits a nice shine and only a few minor imperfections, while the panels are as straight as an arrow. I can’t spot any rust issues, and none are mentioned in the listing. The Sunliner has always been garage-kept, meaning that it could be as solid as it was the day the family took delivery. The top fits as tight as a drum and works as it should, the trim looks exceptional for its age, and the glass is clear and free from major flaws.
The entry-level engine offered to Sunliner buyers in 1956 was the 223ci “Mileage Maker” six, but this car’s first owner decided that there is nothing as great as a V8. They therefore selected the 292ci Y-Block, teamed with a Ford-O-Matic transmission. The engine should generate 200hp, providing very competent performance by 1956 standards. The seller indicates that this gem recently received a new fuel tank and brakes, although the latter requires bleeding to provide a better pedal. The carburetor was rebuilt a few years ago, and the Fairlane needs a new exhaust and a set of tires to be considered genuinely roadworthy. Also included are a spare fuel pump, top, and some additional headlamp components.
This Sunliner’s interior carries the hallmarks of a car that has been driven and enjoyed while being treated respectfully. There is minor wear on the outer seat edge piping, and the color-matched wheel is also worn. However, the Green cloth and vinyl upholstered surfaces look excellent, with no rips or tears. The carpet condition is well above average for its age, and most of the painted surfaces look crisp and clean. There are additional gauges mounted below the dash that could be removed to ensure authenticity, while factory options extend to a push-button radio.
I always find it slightly sad when a classic heads to a new home after spending more than half a century with the one family. However, that offers a chance for a fresh start, and is a better alternative than spending countless years sitting neglected in a barn or a shed. This 1956 Ford Fairlane Sunliner could have suffered that fate, but the family cherishes it too much to let that happen. This is an opportunity for someone to write the next chapter in its story, and to preserve this Ford so that it has a chance of celebrating its hundredth birthday in style. Are you up for that challenge?
I like 55-56 Fords, this one is very nice! And it’s a drop-top to boot! Even the exhaust inserts in the bumper appear is good shape, they usually rotted away taking the bumper openings with them. Service the brakes, and put on a new exhaust (straight pipes and glass packs with tips below the bumper) then its off to Karz n Koffee!
Spectacularly inauthentic seat upholstery. And not in a good sense. Somebody reupholstered this poor thing like it was from a low-level Ford Tudor.
But somebody made good color choices, outside is lovely.
Same color combo as the first car I can remember, my parents 55 Olds Eighty Eight convertible. Turquoise and white with same interior colors. Thank god there’s no continental kit on this car, just fix its mechanical needs and clean up the interior and keep it othe road.
Very nice looking 56 Ford. I wonder who is saleing it. The original owner or did he pass away and the kids decide to sale the old car for some money. If the later–sad to disrespect their folks that way. I would like to have that hear.
If you read the ad the author says his grandparents have decided to sell it.
It is explained in the ad but most kids need to sell these old cars especially one as nice as this. Most don’t know the 1st thing about servicing or caring for them, have no inside storage and it’s getting harder by the day to get them worked on. They end up sitting and running down. Better to get them into the hands of someone who’ll appreciate and care for them.
You don’t often see these. The second car I ever had was one of these. All black outside and black and white interior. That’s back when it was 6 years old. Boy, does this bring back memories. I still remember rebuilding that weird looking for barrel.
It’s refreshing to see a nice 55-56 Fords after seeing a sea of Chevys chrysler or GM cars. Nice find Adam.
I had one just like this one except mine had rolled and pleated interior. Would love to own this one. So many memories
Nice. I really like it.
I wonder when (if?) we will see the return of attractive two-tone color combinations like this on mainstream cars.
The last American cars i can recall with the two tone color was the Lincoln designer models in the late 70s early 80s and some of the Cadillacs of the same era.
The new VW ID Buzz comes in two tone paint mimicking the VW bus of the ‘60’s.