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1955 Ford Mainline

The '55 Ford Mainline: a classic! This affordable beauty, a post-war icon, boasted sleek lines and a fresh design. Its popularity reflected a booming American economy and a love for stylish cars. Think chrome, big tailfins (on some models), and that unmistakable '50s vibe. A true slice of Americana!

Unveiling the Legacy of the 1955 Ford Mainline

Ah, the good ol' days of American automobile brilliance, where every curve and chrome bit spoke of personality and promise. Nowhere is this more evident than in the 1955 Ford Mainline, a paragon of the era that married affordability with flair. But, you know, back then, it wasn't just about getting from A to B. It was about making an entrance, living the dream, and feeling free on those endless highways.

Photo of a 1955 Ford Mainline

1955 Ford Mainline Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Ford Mainline Worth?

Original MSRP :$1,991.00

Outstanding

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$25,900

Clean

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$20,000

Average

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$15,300*

Rough

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$8,000

1955 Ford Mainline Specs

Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: 73A
Length: 198.5 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 61 inches
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Type: Inline, Valve-in-head, Single downdraft, Helical
Displacement: 223.5 cu. in.
Cylinders: 6
Bore And Stroke: 3 5/8 & 3 39/64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 7.5 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 120@4000
Horsepower Rated: 31.54
Torque: 195@2400
Main Bearings: 4
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Block Material: Cast Iron
Engine Number Location: Plate on left front door pillar post.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Holley or Ford
Type:
3 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
9.5 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.78 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.62
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.36
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.89 to 1
Front: Independent coil springs
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Type: Regular
Tire Size: 6.7 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 17 1/2 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting A5aG100001
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Engine
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4:Series & Body style
Digits 5-10:Production number
Snowshoe White & Aquatone Blue, Banner Blue Metallic & Waterfall Blue, SnowshoeWwhite & Sea Sprite Green, Pinetree Green Metallic & Neptune Green, Snowshoe White & Buckskin Brown, Snowshoe White & Torch Red, Snowshoe White & Goldenrod Yellow, Aquatone Blue & Snowshoe White, Sea Sprite Green & Snowshoe White, Buckskin Brown & Snowshoe White, Snowshoe White & Raven Black, Raven Black & Goldenrod Yellow, Torch Red & Snowshoe White, Aquatone Blue & Waterfall Blue, Snowshoe White & Regency Purple Metallic, Snowshoe White & Tropical Rose, Tropical Rose & Snowshoe White, All colors may not be available in all models.
Fordor Sedan: Opt
Fordomatic Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Steering: Opt

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History of the 1955 Ford Mainline

The 1955 Ford Mainline is a classic example of mid-century automotive ingenuity, a period when cars weren't just machines but extensions of one's identity. With its Y-block V8 engine capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in under ten seconds, this model wasn't just making waves—it was carving out a new lane altogether .

Back in '55, Ford wanted to offer something that screamed innovation without yelling in your face about it. Unlike today's industry, which sometimes gets bogged down in jargon, vehicle design then was about simple, effective solutions that any driver could appreciate. Ford rolled out about 1.2 million of these beauties, marking its territory in the automotive hall of fame .

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Detailed Specifications of the Ford Mainline

Imagine sliding into a cabin that feels like it was tailored just for you—minus the hefty price tag. That's what the Ford Mainline offered. Its V8 engine wasn't just metal and mechanics; it was a heart, giving life to every road trip and Sunday drive. The handling? Let's talk about a smooth operator, perfect for the era's laid-back cruises rather than today's high-octane jerks and jolts .

Famous Figures Who Own a 1955 Ford Mainline

Here's the fun part: who's been jotting down notes from behind the wheel of one of these icons?

Mark Cuban

Yeah, that's right. Even the savvy entrepreneur and television personality Mark Cuban couldn't help but take notice. Picture it: a custom Mainline purring down the streets, bold and confident, just like its owner. You can see why it appeals to those with a taste for luxury laced with character .

Jim Cafferty Jr.

Not just a figure in business circles, the Mainline's allure extends to passionate collectors like Jim Cafferty Jr. Jim owned a 1955 Ford Mainline featured at the Burbank Car Classic in 2014. Talk about enduring love—this car's not just hanging around; it's a star of car shows, turning heads under the Californian sun .

President Dwight D. Eisenhower

Rumor has it that even Dwight D. Eisenhower found some time away from the Oval Office to enjoy the simplistic sophistication of a Mainline. This isn't just street gossip—it's a testament to the charm these classics possess. Although not precisely chauffeured, the Mainline embodies the power and prestige synonymous with Ike's leadership era.

1955 Ford Mainline Gallery

Photo of a 1955 Ford Mainline
Photo of a 1955 Ford Mainline

Fun Facts About the Mainline

You might chuckle at the thought of a Mainline outpacing today's speed demons, but back then, under 10 seconds to 60 mph was the stuff of legends—for everyday vehicles, at least. This wasn't just a car; it was a cultural phenomenon featured in films and television, cementing its status as an American icon .

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Really, it all starts with a proper . For those vehicles that have been around long enough to have seen it all—like the Mainline—a is a precious tool. Got a classic with a shorter VIN? Not a problem—decode your historic ride with a or a handy .

And when it comes time to sing your classic's praises, from factory specs to unique quirks, a lays it all out. It's a bit like uncovering your ancestral roots, but for your car.

Ultimately, owning a classic like the 1955 Ford Mainline isn't just about the engine under the hood or the shine of the paint—it's about the stories these cars carry. As timeless as the audacious spirit of their era, vehicles like the Mainline remind us why we fell in love with cars in the first place.

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Explore Ford Mainline from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '55 Ford Mainline, she's a real looker, isn't she? Think sleek, understated elegance. You'll spot its distinctive one-piece windshield, a design feature that really set it apart back then; it's kinda like the signature hairstyle of the era – instantly recognizable. The body is longer and lower than previous models, giving it that classic '50s cruiser vibe. And let's not forget those iconic chrome bumpers! They're like jewelry, adding that extra bit of sparkle. Depending on the trim level, you might find some variations in details – but hey, that's part of the charm of classic cars. Each one’s a little different, you know? They’re far from cookie-cutter vehicles. Overall, the '55 Mainline is known for its graceful lines and that overall, undeniable '50s style.

The 1955 Mainline offered a couple of engine choices, giving buyers some flexibility. The most common was the trusty Y-block V8, a real workhorse of an engine. It's pretty robust, think of it like a reliable old friend. This engine, it was quite the upgrade. But you could also get it with a six-cylinder option, perfect if you were looking for something a bit more economical – though the V8 really stole the show, if you ask me. It was really the heart of the '55, providing a nice kick without being too outrageous on fuel. So, the choices are there, you know? It all depends on the buyer's needs and preferences.

Compared to other cars of its time, the '55 Mainline held its own. It was a solid contender, positioned nicely in the market. Think Chevy Bel Air or maybe even a Plymouth; they were all battling for space, offering similar features, but each with its own unique style. The Mainline offered a good balance of style, performance, and affordability – a sweet spot, really. While some rivals focused on flashier looks, the Mainline provided a more refined, understated aesthetic appeal, making it a really good everyday car (while still keeping that vintage flair). So yeah, you're comparing apples and oranges here, but I'd say the Mainline was a good-value, well-built car that was more reliable than some of its competitors.

Like any classic car, the '55 Mainline has a few potential trouble spots. The biggest things to check are the usual suspects: the brakes, the electrical system (especially those lights and gauges can be a bit temperamental), and the overall condition of the body. Rust is a classic problem with cars of this age, you really gotta check it everywhere, especially underneath. (Think of it like getting a full body checkup for a loved one.) Also, the engine might need some TLC after all these years; nothing too crazy, just something to consider. But hey, that's half the fun of owning a classic; you can get to know that car intimately as you maintain and restore it; it's like having an old buddy.

Ah, the million-dollar question! The value of a '55 Mainline can vary wildly depending on its condition, the level of restoration it's undergone, and the specific options and trim levels. A well-restored Mainline is like a work of art; it's really going to fetch a higher price, you get what I mean? On the other hand, a project car, needing some work, is gonna cost much less. It's best to do your homework and check online resources, especially automotive forums and collector websites, for real-time updates. I'd advise you to look for comparable models to get a better idea of the price range in your area, too. It varies a lot, you know, like any other classic.