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1956 Ford & Meteor Brochures Facts Stats Archives

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Meteor    Meteor Niagara    Meteor Rideau

1956 Ford Car Brochures Facts Stats Archives   SITE INDEX, click items . . .

1956 Meteor Rideau Sunliner   "Juicy Fruit"   Named for its unique colours—24-code Grove Green (upper), 13-code Saffron Yellow (lower), plus 10-code Raven Black (flash). A special order car.    NOTE  Meteors used some Mercury colours.


Meteor automobiles were offered by Ford Motor Company of Canada, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ford Motor Company, from:
•  1948-1954, Mercury-Meteor-Lincoln Division, Ford Motor Company of Canada Limited, Walkerville, Ontario
•  1954-1961, Mercury-Meteor-Lincoln Division, Ford Motor Company of Canada Limited, Oakville, Ontario
•  1961-1963, Meteor part of Mercury line
•  1963-1976, Ford Motor Company of Canada Limited, Oakville, Ontario.

1956 Meteors (herein) were manufactured at the K-code Oakville Assembly Plant, Oakville, Ontario, Canada and sold through Canadian Mercury-Lincoln-Meteor dealerships as low-priced products in their lineup. They were built on Ford chassis and bodies, with limited Ford running gear, but have notably different grille & molding.

1956 Meteor, Meteor Niagara, and Meteor Rideau are "foremost in style with new bold V-sweep grille, long, low sleek lines." Niagara and Rideau models have a bodyside full-length bright-metal molding of "meteor-bolt" design with a middle "flash" contrasting paint colour—Alaska White, Black, Torch Red, or Gold [est]—on Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone paint schemes. The Rideau molding also has an impressed black-painted "jet exhaust" design at rear. Striking!

"Safeguard Design" is the Meteor name for the installed Ford "Lifeguard Design" (here) safety features.


1956   Meteor   Meteor Niagara   Meteor Rideau   Models

PAGE INDEX  Click links or scroll down
 
Single-Tone 16-code Platinum Grey ext paint

1956 Meteor Two-Door Sedan   6 pass
Black rubber windshield & rear window molding, no bodyside molding
Single-Tone ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 1,462 + (V-8) 1,843 = total 3,305
Std Model 2-70A    $2,327 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)   Production 1,843    Shipping wgt 3,200 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft tq @ 2400 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 160 psi, 2-bbl, single-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 264 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 165 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-70A    $2,196 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 1,462    Shipping wgt 3,170 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Single-Tone 04-code Nocturne Blue Metallic ext paint

1956 Meteor Four-Door Sedan   6 pass
Black rubber windshield & rear window molding, no bodyside molding
Single-Tone ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 1,731 + (V-8) 2,311 = total 4,042
Std Model 2-73A    $2,385 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 2,311    Shipping wgt 3,240 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft tq @ 2400 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 160 psi, 2-bbl, single-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 264 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 165-psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-73A    $2,254 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 1,731   Shipping wgt 3,210 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Single-Tone 12-code Buckskin Tan ext paint

1956 Meteor Ranch Wagon   2 dr, 6 pass, station wagon
Stowaway back seat: bottom tilts up & forward, back folds forward & down as level-floor loadspace, length 74"
Black rubber windshield & rear window molding, no bodyside molding
Single-Tone ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 173 + (V-8) 676 = total 849
Std Model 2-59A    $2,754 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 676    Shipping wgt 3,430 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh, w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 160 psi), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-59A    $2,623 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 173    Shipping wgt 3,400 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1.2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Single-Tone 09-code Carousel Red ext paint

1956 Meteor Sedan Delivery   2 dr, 1 pass (driver), panel
One bucket seat (driver), side-hinged panel-type rear door holds open in any position
Black rubber windshield & rear window molding, no bodyside molding
Single-Tone ext paint    Colours (below)    Production (6-cyl) 220 + (V-8) 522 = total 742
Std Model 2-78A    $1,950 [est] CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 522
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft tq @ 2400 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 160 psi, 2-bbl, single-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 264 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 165 psi), 3.54 (opt none) axle
        Weights (lb)  (base model estimates by eng & trans type, options not incld)
        •  Std  F 1876 + R 1513 = Curb 3389 + Payload 711 = GVWR 4100 w/ 6.70 x 15" 4-ply Tires
        •  Opt  F 1879 + R 1516 = Curb 3395 + Payload 805 = GVWR 4200 w/ 7.10 x 1" 4-ply Tires
        •  Opt  F 1881 + R 1518 = Curb 3399 + Payload 1201 = GVWR 4600 w/ 7.10 x 15" 6-ply Tires,  or
Opt Model 5-78A    $1,800 [est] CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 220
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle
        Weights (lb)  (base model estimates by eng & trans type, options not incld)
        •  Std  F 1757 + R 1513 = Curb 3270 + Payload 830 = GVWR 4100 w/ 6.70 x 15" 4-ply Tires
        •  Opt  F 1760 + R 1516 = Curb 3276 + Payload 924 = GVWR 4200 w/ 7.10 x 15" 4-ply Tires
        •  Opt  F 1762 + R 1518 = Curb 3280 + Payload 1320 = GVWR 4600 w/ 7.10 x 15" 6-ply Tires
•  Dry Weight: manufacturer's stated weight by engine type (without coolant, oils, fuel, driver, pass, or cargo)
•  Shipping Weight:  ready to ship—dry weight plus coolant, oils, & some fuel (without driver, pass, or cargo)
•  Curb Weight:  ready to drive—Shipping Weight plus full coolant, oils, fuel (without driver, pass, or cargo)
•  Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW):  loaded weight (gross)—Curb Weight plus weight of driver, pass, & actual cargo
•  Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):  maximum loaded weight (gross) as recommended by manufacturer
•  Maximum Load Weight (Payload):  GVWR minus Curb Weight


 
Two-Tone A2-code Colonial White (upper), Bermuda Blue (lower), plus Colonial White (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Niagara Two-Door Sedan   6 pass
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 819 + (V-8) 3,466 = total 4,285
Std Model 2-70B    $2,446 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 3,466    Shipping wgt 3,250 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft tq @ 2400 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 160 psi, 2-bbl, single-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 264 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 165 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-70B    $2,315 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 819    Shipping wgt 3,220 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Two-Tone 80-code Pine Ridge Green Metallic (upper), Verona Green (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Niagara Four-Door Sedan   6 pass
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 1,805 + (V-8) 10,317 = total 12,122
Std Model 2-73B    $2,501 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 10,317    Shipping wgt 3,290 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft tq @ 2400 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 160 psi, 2-bbl, single-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 264 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 165 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-73B    $2,370 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 1,805    Shipping wgt 3,260 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, _____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Tri-Tone 2D-code Carousel Red (upper), Colonial White (mid), Carousel Red (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Niagara Victoria   2 dr, 6 pass, pillarless hardtop
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) ____ + (V-8) ____ = total _____
Std Model 2-64D    $2,621 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production ____    Shipping wgt 3,345 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft tq @ 2400 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 160 psi, 2-bbl, single-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 264 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 165 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-64D    $2,490 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production ____    Shipping wgt 3,315 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Tri-Tone BD-code Pine Ridge Green Metallic (upper), Verona Green (mid), Pine Ridge Green Metallic (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Niagara Ranch Wagon   2 dr, 6 pass, station wagon
Stowaway back seat: bottom tilts up & forward, back folds forward & down as level-floor loadspace, length 74"
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) ____ + (V-8) ____ = total _____
Std Model 2-59B    $2,842 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production ____    Shipping wgt 3,490 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 160 psi), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-59B    $2,770 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production ____    Shipping wgt 3.480 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1.2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Tri-Tone BH-code Heath Green (upper), Colonial White (mid), Heath Green (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Rideau Club Sedan   2 dr, 6 pass
Bodyside bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ emblem, jet exhaust design, & flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 0 + (V-8 292 & 312) 1,431 = total 1,431
Std Model 2-70C    $2,584 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 1,431    Shipping wgt 3,250 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 160 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 2-70C    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (Merc-O-Matic Dr)    Production ____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 cr, 165 psi, 4-bbl, dual-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed, if any   w/
        •  Merc-O-Matic Dr (required), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-70C    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)   Production 0    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   none installed   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Tri-Tone 5B-code Nocturne Blue Metallic (upper), Diamond Blue (mid), Nocturne Blue Metallic (lower), plus Colonial White (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Rideau Town Sedan   4 dr, 6 pass
Bodyside bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ emblem, jet exhaust design, & flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 1 + (V-8 292 & 312) 5,336 = total 5,337
Std Model 2-73C    $2,639 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 5,336    Shipping wgt 3,290 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr 160 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 2-73C    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (Merc-O-Matic Dr)    Production ____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 cr, 165 psi, 4-bbl, dual-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed, if any   w/
        Merc-O-Matic Dr (required), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-73C    $2,508 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 1    Shipping wgt 3,260 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


1956 Meteor Rideau Town Sedan   Tri-Tone 1E-code Saffron Yellow (upper), Platinum Grey (mid), Saffron Yellow (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint


 
Tri-Tone 8D-code Saffron Yellow (upper), Raven Black (mid), Saffron Yellow (lower), plus Colonial White (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Rideau Victoria   2 dr, 6 pass, pillarless hardtop
Bodyside bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ emblem, jet exhaust design, & flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) ____ + (V-8 292 & 312) ____ = total 2,110
Std Model 2-64C    $2,759 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production ____    Shipping wgt 3,350 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 160 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 2-64C    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (Merc-O-Matic Dr)    Production ____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 cr, 165 psi, 4-bbl, dual-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed   w/
        Merc-O-Matic Dr (required), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-64C    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production ____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed, if any   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15  tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 7.10 x 15" tires

1956 Meteor Rideau Victoria  Tri-Tone 8D-code Saffron Yellow (upper), Raven Black (mid), Saffron Yellow (lower), plus Colonial White (flash) ext paint


 
Spring Colour (Apr 1, '56) Tri-Tone __-code Sunset Coral (upper), Colonial White (mid), Sunset Coral (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Rideau Four-Door Victoria   4 dr, 6 pass, pillarless hardtop
mid model-year    Promoted as a V-8 eng Merc-O-Matic Drive car
Bodyside bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ emblem, jet exhaust design, & flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (V-8 292) ____ + (V-8 312) ____ = total 545
Std Model 2-57A    $2,849 CAD FOB Oakville    Production ____    Shipping wgt 3,440 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 2-57A    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville    Production ____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 cr, 165 psi, 4-bbl, dual-exh,
        few installed   w/
        Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires


 
Tri-Tone 6B-code Bermuda Blue (upper), Colonial White (mid), Bermuda Blue (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Rideau Crown Victoria   2 dr, 6 pass
"Crown of chrome" molding over steel top
Bodyside bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ emblem, jet exhaust design, & flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 0 + (V-8 292 & 312) 206 = total 206
St Model 2-64A    $2,936 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 206    Shipping wgt 3,330 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 160 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 2-64A    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (Merc-O-Matic)    Production ____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 cr, 165 psi, 4-bbl, dual-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed   w/
        Merc-O-Matic Dr (required), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,   or
Opt Model 5-64A    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 0    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   none installed   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 7.10 x 15" tires


1956 Meteor Rideau Crown Victoria   Tri-Tone 2B-code Diamond Blue (upper), Colonial White (mid), Diamond Blue (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint.  Photo Barrett-Jackson


 
Two-Tone 76-code Mandarin Orange (mid), Colonial White (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Rideau Sunliner   2 dr, 6 pass, convertible
Electro-hydraulic unit (a motor & oil pump) powered convertible top
Bodyside bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ emblem, jet exhaust design, & flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 0 + (V-8 292 & 312) 479 = total 479
Std Model 2-76B    $3,007 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 479    Shipping wgt 3,450 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 160 psi), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 2-76B    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (Merc-O-Matic Dr)    Production _____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 cr, 165 psi, 4-bbl, dual-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed   w/
        Merc-O-Matic Dr (required), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-76B    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 0    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   none installed   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 7.10 x 15" tires




1956 Meteor Rideau Sunliner   Two-Tone 59-code Carousel Red (mid), Raven Black (lower), plus Colonial White (flash) ext paint


 
Tri-Tone 2D-code Carousel Red (upper), Colonial White (mid), Carousel Red (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Rideau 6-Passenger Country Sedan   4 dr, 6 pass, station wagon
Stowaway back seat: bottom tilts up & forward, back folds forward & down as level-floor loadspace, length 74"
Bodyside bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ emblem, jet exhaust design, & flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 173 + (V-8 292 & 312) 1,605 = total 1,778
Std Model 2-79D    $2,900 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 1,605    Shipping wgt 3,560 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1, 160 psi), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 2-79D    $ _____ CAD FOB Oakville (Merc-O-Matic Dr)    Production _____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 cr, 165 psi, 4-bbl, dual-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed   w/
        Merc-O-Matic Dr (required), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Opt Model 5-79D    $ _____ CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 173    Shipping wgt 3,530 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1.2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" tires


 
Tri-Tone 2D-code Carousel Red (upper), Colonial White (mid), Carousel Red (lower), plus Raven Black (flash) ext paint

1956 Meteor Rideau 8-Passenger Country Sedan   4 dr, 8 pass, station wagon
Stowaway back seat: divided 2/3 left & 1/3 right. Divided bottoms fold up, forward, & down as level-floor loadspace, & divided backs fold forward & down as level-floor loadspace. As well, with the back folded forward, the whole Stowaway back 1/3 right seat tilts up & forward for rear seat access. Removable Rear Seat: (2-pass) w/ back & bottom cushions removed the back folds forward & down as level-floor loadspace, total length 82.9."
Bodyside bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ emblem, jet exhaust design, & flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint    Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) ____ + (V-8 292 & 312) 933 = total 933
Std Model 2-79B    $3,070 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production 933    Shipping wgt 3,610 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 155 psi, 4-bbl,  dual-exh,  w/
        •  Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 289 lb-ft tq, 8.4:1 cr, 160 psi), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Std Model 2-79B    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (Merc-O-Matic Dr)    Production ____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft tq @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 cr, 165 psi, 4-bbl, dual-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed   w/
        Merc-O-Matic Dr (required), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,  or
Std Model 5-79B    $ ____ CAD FOB Oakville (std trans)    Production ____    Shipping wgt ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft tq @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 cr, 150 psi, 1-bbl, single-exh,
        mid model-year   few installed, if any   w/
        •  Standard, 9-1.2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires,
        •  Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires
        •  Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" tires


1956 Meteor Rideau 8-Pass Country Sedan   Single-Tone 09-code Carousel Red plus Colonial White (flash) ext paint

 
Ext Paint Colours - Single-Tone, Two-Tone, Tri-Tone, & Flash - view or print 5-page PDF (here)

. . .  continued on pages 2 to 5 (here)
1956   Meteor   Engines   Transmissions   Clutches   Rims   Tires


1956 Meteor V-8- 292-cid  200-hp (202-hp w/ Merc-O-Matic Dr) 4-bbl dual exh eng.  Photos Barrett-Jackson

 
4 Engines   12-volt elec system
●  Std Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 90°, 2-bbl carb, 4-blade fan, single-exh
2-ohv (intake 1.78," exh 1.51"), solid valve lifters, 3.62" bore x 3.30" stroke, 5 main bearings
        •  Std 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft torque @ 2400 rpm, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 160 psi, std Standard or opt Overdrive
        •  Opt 176-hp @ 4400 rpm, 264 lb-ft torque @ 2400 rpm, 8.4:1 comp ratio, 165 psi, opt Merc-O-Matic Drive

●  Std Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 90°, 4-bbl carb, 4-blade fan, dual-exh
2-ohv (intake 1.78," exh 1.51"), solid valve lifters, 3.75" bore x 3.30" stroke, 5 main bearings
        •  Std 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 155 psi, std Standard or opt Overdrive
        •  Opt 202-hp @ 4600 rpm, 289 lb-ft torque @ 2600 rpm, 8.4:1 comp ratio, 160 psi, opt Merc-O-Matic Drive

●  Opt Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 90°, 4-bbl carb, 4-blade fan, dual-exh
2-ohv, (intake 1.78," exh 1.51"), solid valve lifters, 3.80" bore x 3.44" stroke, 5 main bearings
        225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 165 psi, opt Merc-O-Matic Drive (req'd)
        mid model-year   few installed

●  Opt Meteor 6 - 223-cid, In-line, 1-bbl carb, 3-blade fan, single-exh
2-ohv, solid valve lifters, 3.625" bore x 3.60" stroke, 4 main bearings
        137-hp @ 4000 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 150 psi, all drives
        mid model-year   few installed

Engine Number Location
1949-1954, stamped on identification plate on cowl
1955-1967, stamped on identification plate attached to left front door pillar post

Engine Oil 4 imp qt, 5 imp qt w/ filter    Oil Bath Air Cleaner fill to level mark (approx. 1 imp pt)
Cooling System 16.5 imp qt, 17.5 imp qt w/ heater, pressure 12 to 15 lb    Fan 4-blade
Electrical System 12-volt, Negative Ground, Spark Plugs 18 mm Gap .032 to .036," Spark Control full vacuum
V-8  Firing Order 1-5-4-8-6-3-7-2, Point Gap .014 to .016," Timing BTDC 3° (std)  6° (auto)  max 10°
        Valve Clearance int .019" exh .019" (hot)
I-6 Firing Order 1-5-3-6-2-4, Point Gap .024 to .026," Timing BTDC 4° (std) 6° (auto), max 8°
        Valve Clearance int .015" exh .019" (hot)
Trans  Standard 2.5 imp pint, Overdrive 3.5 imp pint, Merc-O-Matic Dr 8 imp gt    Differential 2.5 imp pint
Fuel Tank 14.5 imp gal (cars), 15.5 imp gal (stn wagon & Sedan Delivery)
Brake Pedal Free Travel 5/16 to 7/16"
 
3 Transmissions    View Shifting Gears, Owners Manual
●  Std Silent-Ease Standard (manual 3-spd)
1st, 2nd (synchro), 3rd (synchro), & Reverse

●  Opt Touch-O-Matic Overdrive (manual 3-spd w/ auto 4th-spd Overdrive gear)
1st, 2nd (synchro), 3rd (synchro), 4th OD (30% lower eng rpm than 3rd), & Reverse

●  Opt Speed-Trigger Merc-O-Matic Drive (automatic 3-spd)
Low (1st), Intermediate (2nd, Passing Gear), High (3rd), & Reverse
 



1956 Meteor Rideau Sunliner   All-vinyl weather-resistant int trim uph. Electro-hydraulic (motor & oil pump) powered convertible top.

1956 Meteor Rideau Sunliner   Opt Meteor V-8 - 312-cid  225-hp 4-bbl dual-exh eng & Merc-O-Matic Dr (requ'd)   mid model-year   few installed


Serial Number Location
1949-1954, stamped on identification plate on cowl and on frame right side under hood
1955-1967, stamped on identification plate attached to left front door pillar post
1968-1973, stamped on plate attached to left front corner of dashboard, viewed through windshield



Sample 1956 Meteor Rideau Victoria Data Plate

FORD MOTOR COMPANY OF CANADA LIMITED    OAKVILLE ONTARIO
SERIAL NUMBER  264CK56-129517
2   ENGINE TYPE - Meteor V-8 - 292-cid  (200/202-hp)
64C   BODY TYPE - 2-door Hardtop (pillarless)
K   ASSEMBLY PLANT - Oakville, Ontario (all 1955-1956 Meteors)
56   MODEL YEAR - 1956
129517   CONSECUTIVE UNIT NO. (starting at 100001) - the 29,517th vehicle (of all models) assembled so far, at the Oakville plant, for the 1956 model-year
264C   MODEL - Rideau Victoria (2-door pillarless hardtop)
GEB   TRIM (INTERIOR) - [not determined by editor]
01   PAINT (EXTERIOR) - Alaska White  (plus a bodyside meteor-bolt molding w/ contrasting flash paint colour)

NOTE  Meteor data plates have no Production Code "scheduled for assembly" date—Ford data plates have a date.




;

1956 Meteor   Meteor Niagara   Meteor Rideau Specifications
 

Brochure & publication sources: '55 Ford, '55 Ford (foldout), Ford Presents '55 Station Wagons, The 1955 Ford Courier, '55 Ford for Taxi Service, 1955 Ford Law Enforcement and Emergency Use Vehicles, '55 Ford Passenger Car and Truck Accessories, All the Facts About the 1955 Ford, 1955 Ford Owner's Manual, 1955 Ford Car Shop Manual, 1955 Ford Air Conditioning Shop Manual, 1955 Ford SelectAire Conditioner Parts, 1953 thru 1955 Ford Soft Trim Parts Catalog, The Production Figure Book for U.S. Cars, 1955 Meteor, CVA '55 Ford Specifications & Accessories Manual, Ditzler & DuPont color chips, magazine advertisements, & actual dealership price lists. Website sources: The Henry Ford Museum, Crown Victoria Association (CVA), Classical Thunderbird Club International, Automobile Catalog, John Mummert's Ford Y-8, Paint Cross Reference, Concours Parts, Coker Tire, Mecum Auctions, RM Sotheby's, RK Motors, Wikipedia, & old Ford forums.

Data may not be complete or account for production changes, anomalies, or special orders.
Some prices are estimated. Displayed colors are approximate.
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© 2005-2023 Charles Gardiner  British Columbia  Canada

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