Chevrolet and Ford battle for supremacy in American automobile sales. Both companies introduced new full-size models in 1955, Chevrolet with the Bel Air and Ford countering with the Fairlane. The 1956 Ford was a re-issue of the previous year’s body with an updated grille and trim, but an all-new interior was fitted. Safety took on added importance with auto manufacturers, and Ford responded with a padded dash, a sunvisor and a newly-shaped steering wheel. In addition, seatbelts were offered for the first time. A 12-volt electrical system and 18-millimeter anti-fouling spark plugs were also announced. The Fairlane received its name from Henry Ford’s nearby estate, Fair Lane in Dearborn, Michigan.

Powering this Ford Fairlane Victoria is the Thunderbird Special 292-cid V-8 with dual exhaust and a two-speed column-shift automatic transmission. The exterior is finished in Fiesta Red with a black interior. The Victoria displays fender skirts, Goodyear whitewall tires (including the original, unused spare) heater, backup lights and a radio.

The 1956 Victoria adopted a new, more gently contoured roofline, inherited from 1955s Crown Victoria. This car lacks the tiara of the Crown Vic, but gains a certain airiness in its absence. The new roofline was very popular—the 1956 Victoria outsold its 1955 counterpart by 56-percent. The car is reported to be little used over the years and has many original features that include dashboard paint, sunvisors, headliner, door rubbers, seat upholstery, factory undercoating and clear glass. The current owner has had this beautiful car since 1989; to illustrate the special statue of this example, it is a 2014 AACA National First Prize winner.