The ’56 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 sun visor, and a newly-shaped steering wheel. In addition, seat belts were offered for the first time. A 12-volt electrical system and 18-millimeter anti-fouling spark plugs were also announced.

The big Ford was available in three levels of trim, the base Mainline models, the intermediate-level Customline, and the top-of-the-line Fairlane. All models came with the standard six-cylinder and optional V-8 power. Motor Trend named the entire Ford line its “Car of the Year” for 1956. Ford manufactured in excess of 1.4 million units for the model year.

Adorned in a perfect 1950s color combination of Mandarin Orange and Raven Black, this striking Fairlane Sunliner Convertible was one of 58,147 produced for 1956. According to the consigners, this car was purchased new by a lady in Zila, Washington. She sold the unrestored car to its next owner, where it remained in storage for 10 years until being purchased by the current owners in early 2003. An exhaustive, no-expenses-spared, body-off restoration was undertaken immediately to prepare the car for driving by the summer of 2004.

The frame was sandblasted, and both it and all suspension parts were powder-coated. Front disc brakes were installed, as was a power booster and modern master cylinder, to enhance safety and drivability. The engine was upgraded to 1957 312-cubic inch V-8 standards, including the crank and rods. A modern Holley carburetor is fitted to the upgraded intake manifold, and the valve covers are cast aluminum Thunderbird units. A heavy front sway bar was installed to assist in stabilizing the car in corners, along with new rear brakes, steel brake and fuel lines, and a new fuel tank.

Once the rolling chassis was completed, the body was reinstalled, along with newly re-plated chrome and polished trim. All new glass was installed, as was a new interior, a continental kit with very rare bumper extensions, a Haartz convertible top, and chrome wire wheels, from Roadster Wheels, on radial tires. In an extremely clever fashion, an AM/FM/CD player was installed in the tissue dispenser under the dash. Other options with which this car is loaded include fingernail guards, a heavy sway bar, spotlights with rearview mirrors, an upholstered trunk, and both a grille guard and deck guard. Nothing, including the smallest details, has been overlooked on this stunning ’56 Sunliner. Even a power seat was sourced and installed at great expense, completing what amounts to “power everything” on this beautiful automobile.

The owners note that the car is a “strong runner,” as it has completed 15,000 trouble-free miles during their ownership. It is described as “a good highway car and a good performer.” The new owner will receive many miles of enjoyment, too, as this car is perfect for cruise-ins, vintage tours, and Ford Club events.