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 estate, Fair Lane in Dearborn, Michigan.

Powering this Ford Fairlane Victoria is the Thunderbird Special 292-cid V8 with dual exhaust, power steering and a two-speed column-shift automatic transmission. The exterior is finished in two-tone green with fender skirts, dual rear-facing mirrors and wide whitewall tires with chrome wheel covers. The lush interior is a matching two-tone green and is tailored with an optional padded dashboard, an 8-track radio and modern gauges mounted under the dash.

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.