The '56 Ford Mainline: a classic American car! Simple, affordable, and super popular back in the day. Its boxy, chrome-laden design was everywhere, reflecting post-war optimism. A true workhorse, representing a simpler time in American automotive history. Think reliable, everyday cool.
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Introduced in a time when cars were a status symbol—and I mean more than they are today—the Ford Mainline was produced from 1952 until 1956. This model, sandwiched between the Customline and Fairlane, was Ford's middle child. You know, reliable and sometimes overshadowed by its siblings yet always ready to shine on its own.
Design and Features
By 1956, Ford had jazzed up the Mainline's look—gone was the boxy silhouette, replaced by a more modern, sleek design. With a variety of engine options like the V8, it stood out not just for family road trips but also as a performance beast for the speed enthusiasts of its time.
End of an Era
The Mainline's production hit the brakes in '56 as Ford pointed the spotlight towards more glamorous rides like the Thunderbird. But, here's the heartwarming part—it lives on today in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts, symbolizing a key chapter in mid-20th-century Americana.
1956 Ford Mainline Models:
Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.
How Much is Ford Mainline Worth?
Original MSRP :$1,657.00
Outstanding
$27,100
Clean
$20,300
Average
$16,300*
Rough
$7,800
1956 Ford Mainline Specs
Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: 73A
Length: 198.5 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 62.1 inches
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Weight: 3,127lbs
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: 8.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 137@4200
Horsepower Rated: 31.54
Torque: 202@2200
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: Own
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:
1.61
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.38
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.89 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs
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:G 4th digit
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Engine
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4:Series & Body style
Digits 5-10:Production number
Diamond Blue, Colonial White, Meadow Mist Green, Bermuda Blue, Platinum Gray, Pine Ridge Green Metallic, Fiesta Red, Golden Glow Yellow, Mandarin Orange, Nocurne Blue Metallic, Buckskin Tan, Peacock Blue, Berkshire Green, Spring Mist Green, Sunset Coral, All colors may not be available in all models.
Fordor Sedan: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
How Much is Ford Mainline Worth?
Original MSRP :$1,699.00
Outstanding
$27,100
Clean
$20,300
Average
$16,300*
Rough
$7,800
1956 Ford Mainline Specs
Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 70A
Length: 198.5 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 62.1 inches
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Weight: 3,032lbs
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: 8.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 137@4200
Horsepower Rated: 31.54
Torque: 202@2200
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: Own
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:
1.61
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.38
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.89 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs
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:G or T 4th digit
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Engine
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4:Series & Body style
Digits 5-10:Production number
Diamond Blue, Colonial White, Meadow Mist Green, Bermuda Blue, Platinum Gray, Pine Ridge Green Metallic, Fiesta Red, Golden Glow Yellow, Mandarin Orange, Nocurne Blue Metallic, Buckskin Tan, Peacock Blue, Berkshire Green, Spring Mist Green, Sunset Coral, All colors may not be available in all models.
Tudor Sedan: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
How Much is Ford Mainline Worth?
Original MSRP :$1,562.00
Outstanding
$34,900
Clean
$26,700
Average
$21,200*
Rough
$10,700
1956 Ford Mainline Specs
Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 70D
Length: 198.5 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 62.1 inches
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Weight: 3,087lbs
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: 8.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 137@4200
Horsepower Rated: 31.54
Torque: 202@2200
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: Own
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:
1.61
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.38
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.89 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs
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:G or T 4th digit
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Engine
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4:Series & Body style
Digits 5-10:Production number
Diamond Blue, Colonial White, Meadow Mist Green, Bermuda Blue, Platinum Gray, Pine Ridge Green Metallic, Fiesta Red, Golden Glow Yellow, Mandarin Orange, Nocurne Blue Metallic, Buckskin Tan, Peacock Blue, Berkshire Green, Spring Mist Green, Sunset Coral, All colors may not be available in all models.
Business Tudor: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
How Much is Ford Mainline Worth?
Original MSRP :$1,750.00
Outstanding
$27,100
Clean
$20,300
Average
$16,300*
Rough
$7,800
1956 Ford Mainline Specs
Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 70A
Length: 198.5 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 62.1 inches
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Weight: 3,143lbs
Type: V8, Valve-in-head, Dual downdraft, Helical
Displacement: 272.21 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 5/8 & 3 19/64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 173@4400
Horsepower Rated: 42.05
Torque: 260@2400
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Engine Number Location: Plate on left front door pillar post.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Own
Type:
3 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.57 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.63
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.13
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.78 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs
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: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:G or T 4th digit
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Engine
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4:Series & Body style
Digits 5-10:Production number
Diamond Blue, Colonial White, Meadow Mist Green, Bermuda Blue, Platinum Gray, Pine Ridge Green Metallic, Fiesta Red, Golden Glow Yellow, Mandarin Orange, Nocurne Blue Metallic, Buckskin Tan, Peacock Blue, Berkshire Green, Spring Mist Green, Sunset Coral, All colors may not be available in all models.
Tudor Sedan: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
How Much is Ford Mainline Worth?
Original MSRP :$1,655.00
Outstanding
$34,900
Clean
$26,700
Average
$21,200*
Rough
$10,700
1956 Ford Mainline Specs
Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 70D
Length: 198.5 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 62.1 inches
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Weight: 3,198lbs
Type: V8, Valve-in-head, Dual downdraft, Helical
Displacement: 272.21 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 5/8 & 3 19/64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 173@4400
Horsepower Rated: 42.05
Torque: 260@2400
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Engine Number Location: Plate on left front door pillar post.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Own
Type:
3 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.57 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.63
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.13
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.78 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs
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: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:G or T 4th digit
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Engine
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4:Series & Body style
Digits 5-10:Production number
Diamond Blue, Colonial White, Meadow Mist Green, Bermuda Blue, Platinum Gray, Pine Ridge Green Metallic, Fiesta Red, Golden Glow Yellow, Mandarin Orange, Nocurne Blue Metallic, Buckskin Tan, Peacock Blue, Berkshire Green, Spring Mist Green, Sunset Coral, All colors may not be available in all models.
Business Tudor: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
How Much is Ford Mainline Worth?
Original MSRP :$1,792.00
Outstanding
$27,100
Clean
$20,300
Average
$16,300*
Rough
$7,800
1956 Ford Mainline Specs
Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: 73A
Length: 198.5 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 62.1 inches
Wheelbase: 115.5 inches
Weight: 3,238lbs
Type: V8, Valve-in-head, Dual downdraft, Helical
Displacement: 272.21 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 5/8 & 3 19/64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 173@4400
Horsepower Rated: 42.05
Torque: 260@2400
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Engine Number Location: Plate on left front door pillar post.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Own
Type:
3 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.57 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.63
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.13
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.78 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs
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: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:G 4th digit
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Engine
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4:Series & Body style
Digits 5-10:Production number
Diamond Blue, Colonial White, Meadow Mist Green, Bermuda Blue, Platinum Gray, Pine Ridge Green Metallic, Fiesta Red, Golden Glow Yellow, Mandarin Orange, Nocurne Blue Metallic, Buckskin Tan, Peacock Blue, Berkshire Green, Spring Mist Green, Sunset Coral, All colors may not be available in all models.
Fordor Sedan: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?
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Now, let's dive under the hood. The 1956 model offered several engine options, including:
Overhead valve V8 engine: A force to be reckoned with on open roads.
Various transmission options: Catering to both smooth cruisers and those who preferred a bit more control.
The chassis and suspension were rugged, promising stability—like a good old rock amidst the waves of everyday chaos. And while it may not have been the sleekest sports car, the driving experience was often described as pure joy.
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Alright, so this might surprise you—specific celebrity names linked to this Ford model are as elusive as a mythical creature in the woods. Yet, it's not just about glam and glitz; the Mainline was more about deep connections with owners, many of whom used the car for philanthropic activities more than for flashing its chrome.
John Curry
Boom. Here's a name you might not recognize but should. John Curry made headlines by using his 1956 Ford Mainline for charity events, raising funds for children's charities. His efforts underscore a legacy that's more about giving back than grabbing attention.
Pop Culture Impact
Classic cars like the Mainline have graced the big and small screens, much like an unsung hero that quietly steals the show. Featured in television dramas and sometimes in films, the Mainline punctuated many a storyline during the golden age of television.
1956 Ford Mainline Gallery
Why Are Classic Cars Unique?
Classic cars like the Ford Mainline carry tales from eras long gone. They're not just cars; they're time capsules on wheels. They echo back stories of family road trips and Sunday drives, all wrapped up in layers of vintage charm. They give us more than a piece of history; they provide a feeling, an experience that newer models, with all their techy bits and bobs, just can't replicate.
Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?
Here's the thing—if you're thinking about venturing into the classic car market, it's absolutely essential to arm yourself with a comprehensive history report. Seriously, this isn't just paperwork; it's your treasure map in understanding the car's past. Here's what you need:
Accident Records
Theft Records
Loan & Lien Information
Auction Information
Salvage Information and more
For instance, using a can make all the difference in unraveling a classic car's storied past. You might find that this Ford Mainline you're eyeing has a past akin to an epic novel! For those dealing with pre-1981 models, a is essential.
Pricing and Market Trends
These cars might not be a Lamborghini, but who've thought that the Mainline would pop up with auction prices touching $27,000? Depending on condition and rarity, this car's value can vary—just like stock market shares but arguably more exhilarating to watch.
Buyer Experiences
What's often seen in buyer feedback is satisfaction—not just in owning a piece of history, but also experiencing the narrative that comes along with a properly kept classic car.
The Legacy Continues
The Ford Mainline may no longer be the new kid on the block, but it dances through time, bringing with it whispers of the past. And honestly, isn't that what we love about classic cars? They might be a bit rickety and rough around the edges, but they are stories on wheels—as alive and thrilling as ever.
Feel free to check out a or ensure your ride's accuracy with a . And maybe, just maybe, you'll find this gem of a Ford Mainline calling your name.
For those new to decoding classics or handling numbers like , or dealing with older systems like , knowing that you have tools like a can ease this journey significantly.
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The '56 Ford Mainline, well, it's a real looker! Think of it as the everyday classic, not quite as flashy as some of its siblings but still undeniably cool. You'll spot its distinctive 'shoebox' styling—a popular design element back then—immediately. It usually sports a simple, understated grille, and generally a fairly straightforward body design. It's pretty recognizable; you know, one of those cars you just know is a '56 Ford. They're not all identical, though! Options varied, so details can be different from car to car. Ultimately, the Mainline is the type of car that really captures the spirit of mid-century America; something of a timeless classic, if you ask me. Its simpler design is really its charm, in my opinion.
The '56 Mainline came with a couple of engine choices. The most common was the trusty 223 cubic inch I6 (that's six cylinders). This engine was, well, it was a workhorse; dependable, fairly economical, pretty much like a reliable old friend. Some Mainlines also sported the Y-block V8, a 272 cubic inch engine; this option offered more oomph under the hood, though it wasn't exactly a muscle car. Think of it like this: the I6 is like a comfortable, dependable sedan, and the V8 is a bit more like a snappy coupe. Both were solid choices for their day; not a bad deal either way, really.
You'd mainly find a three-speed manual transmission in a '56 Mainline. This was pretty standard for the time, kinda like having a standard stick shift on your bicycle back in the day – it's what you had! An optional two-speed automatic called the Ford-O-Matic was also available, though less common. Now, the automatic gearbox, that was a bit of a luxury back then. This made driving in busy traffic that much smoother and simpler. Nowadays, we take that almost entirely for granted, but those automatic transmissions were quite the novelty then, I'd say.
Oh boy, pricing on these classics can be all over the map, it really depends on the condition. A truly pristine, meticulously restored Mainline might fetch a pretty penny – we're talking many thousands of dollars! But a project car, one that needs some serious TLC? You might find one for significantly less. It's really all about finding the right one and figuring out what that sweet spot is for you! It's like buying any other piece of art or antiquity; some are more expensive to obtain than others.
Finding parts for a '56 Mainline can be a bit of an adventure, but luckily it's not impossible! You'll find many parts through online specialists and classic car parts retailers. Many of these parts are still produced today, or are available as reproductions; there are also tons of dedicated forums and communities for these classic Ford enthusiasts. It's like a treasure hunt sometimes, but it's part of the fun, isn't it? You'll meet amazing people, too.
Like any car of that age, expect some quirks! Rust is a common issue, especially in areas with harsh winters, so keep your eyes peeled for rust spots. The electrical system can also be temperamental; these older cars are less immune to corrosion and weathering. And just like any classic car, it's good to do regular maintenance, or at least know someone who does. Regular checkups prevent more serious problems down the line.