1956 Ford Customline VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 1956 Ford Customline was Ford’s mid‑trim full‑size car, offering both affordability and upgraded styling compared to the Mainline, while falling just below the premium Fairlane. It balanced functionality and flair, appealing to the everyday American buyer seeking dependable transportation with a bit of polish.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

As part of Ford’s second-generation Customline (1955–1956), the 1956 model built on a redesign launched the year earlier. It marked Ford’s farewell to the Customline nameplate, as the series was replaced by the Custom 300 in 1957. In 1956, about 368,600 Customlines were produced across various body styles and assembly plants. The 1956 model introduced a 12‑volt electrical system and cosmetic updates, aligning with the styling cues of the era’s Thunderbird.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

Engine choices included:

• 223 cu in inline‑6: 137 hp, standard with a 3‑speed manual, optional overdrive.

• 272 cu in Y‑block V8: 173 hp (176 hp with automatic), optional two-barrel carburetor.

Transmission options ranged from a 3-speed manual to optional Ford-O-Matic automatic and overdrive on manual. The car’s ride and performance were praised—Motor Life reported a 0–60 mph time just over 9.5 seconds in test trims.

DESIGN & FEATURES

• Exterior: Based on 1955 body lines, the 1956 Customline featured a wraparound windshield, updated grille, two‑tone chrome trim, curved rear glass, and optional Victoria hardtop. The trim lines ran straight back along the rear fenders, differing from Fairlane styling.

• Interior: A step up from entry-level models, the Customline offered upgraded cloth/vinyl upholstery, optional power steering, and options such as Air Conditioning, AM radio, and fender skirts. Safety innovations included padded dashboards, Lifeguard steering wheel, crash‑proof door locks, and breakaway mirrors.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

Available body styles:

• 2-door Tudor sedan

• 4-door Fordor sedan

• 2-door Victoria hardtop

• Station wagon variants sold under “Country Sedan,” which shared underpinnings with the Customline.
  Trim level positioned between the Mainline and Fairlane, with the Victoria hardtop being the premium offering.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Advanced for its time, the 1956 Customline included Ford’s “Lifeguard” safety innovations: a dished padded steering wheel, safety door locks, and a breakaway interior mirror. Braking was by four-wheel hydraulic drums, and optional power steering and automatic transmission improved drivability.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

• 223 cu in I‑6: Approx. 15–20 mpg

• 272 cu in V8: Around 15–18 mpg, depending on drivetrain and weight of trim/options.
  Performance fuel consumption was typical for mid‑1950s full‑size cars.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1956, the Customline competed with Chevy’s 210/Bel Air, Plymouth’s Savoy series, and other mid-range American sedans. It offered better styling and options than the Mainline, but was positioned more accessibly than the upscale Fairlane, attracting buyers who wanted solid looks and value.

PRICING

• Original MSRP: Approximately $1,850–$2,236, depending on engine and body style (e.g. Victoria hardtop with V8).

• Current market values:

  • Fair condition 4-door sedan: $6,000–$9,000

  • Excellent 2-door hardtop hatch or wagon: $14,000–$29,000

  • Highly restored Victoria coupes and wagons with V8s: up to $40,000+ 

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

While not a performance icon, the 1956 Customline is respected among collectors for its classic mid-century design, robust Y-block V8 options, and rarity as the final Customline model. Enthusiast testimonials underscore its appeal:

“The one thing you can’t take away from the Ford is… they have the best steel in the entire industry” — NASCAR President complimenting durability.
And Reddit users frequently identify mid‑’50s Ford sedans as Customlines in restored or untouched condition.