Some owners are more meticulous than others when the subject turns to preserving a paper trail tracing their classic’s history. That is one reason why this 1956 Dodge Royal might appeal to many potential buyers. Safely squirreled away in a binder is extensive documentation dating back to 1956, including the Dealer Invoice, Title, and Window Sticker. Adding to its appeal is some recent significant mechanical work that has left the car as a turnkey proposition. The seller has listed the Dodge here on Craigslist in Virginia Beach, Virginia. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting a classic that could be yours for $11,000.
This Dodge makes a positive first impression as a survivor-grade classic. Its color combination of Jewel Black and Sapphire White would have been stunning in its prime. It exhibits some deterioration, but if this is a genuinely unrestored vehicle, the condition is noteworthy. There are no significant panel or paint imperfections and the seller emphasizes that this Royal is rust-free. Most of the bright trim is in good order, and although it isn’t perfect, it helps the Dodge’s exterior to maintain a consistent look. The glass is clear, and the whitewalls look right at home on this beauty. Someone could decide to treat this Royal to a cosmetic refresh to boost its appearance, but instincts tell me that it will command more respect if preserved in its current form.
The first owner elected to trim this Royal’s interior in tri-tone Black, White, and Gold. It is a classy combination that has survived extraordinarily well over the past sixty-nine years. The front seatcover exhibits mild stretching on the base, but with no rips and tears, its presentation is extremely nice. The photos suggest that the back seat has seen little use, and although the carpet is faded, it isn’t badly worn. The gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings, and the rest of the dash is in good order. The seller indicates that everything works as it should, with no functional issues to sour the ownership experience. As with the exterior, this interior needs nothing unless someone plans to transform the Dodge from a survivor to a pristine classic.
Powering this Dodge is a 315ci V8 that should generate 230hp and 316 ft/lbs of torque following a documented rebuild around 8,000 miles ago. Shifting duties fall to a three-speed automatic that received a rebuild at the same time. The car’s curb weight of 3,750 lbs is typical for the era, although that V8 should still provide sparkling performance and excellent open-road cruising. The cash splashed by the seller was worth it. They recently undertook an extended road trip, and the Dodge didn’t miss a beat. Therefore, if you want to fly in and drive this gem home, that is a realistic expectation.
This 1956 Dodge Royal probably ticks most of the boxes enthusiasts seek when considering investing in a classic to park in their garage. It is unmolested, in excellent mechanical health, is well-documented, and is undeniably affordable. The bulletproof nature of its mechanical components and lack of rust mean that it should serve the buyer faithfully for many years, and draw admiring glances wherever it goes. If you have been searching for a Mopar classic to park in your garage, could this Dodge be a contender?
I would definitely drive this little mopar,it looks like one my dad had when I was a tike. $7500.00 IS My offer
A beautiful `56, with one correction: The seller couldn’t have an MSRP label (window sticker) for this car. The ‘Monroney Label’ bill didn’t pass Congress until `57, so the first cars to get stickers were the `58 models.
But still, a well cared for and no doubt loved Dodge is great to see! Straight as an arrow and would make an interesting ‘starter collectible’ for the right buyer at this price. Beautiful black/white two-tone is easy on the eyes.
These were not built with a three speed automatic transmission, should be two speed.
My thought exactly. Only four buttons on the push button shifter, RNDL.
These were late models when I was a kid.
Compared to the mid 60s new cars hitting the roads at that time they seemed ancient, aggressive and scary. Sort of mysterious and sinister to my child’s mind.
What a treat to see one in such nice shape.
Had one just like this one color and all but had a rare trunk A/C which was like the big Mopars but was narrower to fit back there. Took that out for my 56 Fury.
Mine was 3-tone, White roof, Sky Blue mId and Royal Blue lower, with a V-8, 3 on the tree and overdrive. Now the V-8 was a 273. The 315 was the Hemi and that’s not a hemi in the picture. I’d still love to have that car.