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.
MERCURY–LINCOLN–METEOR DIVISION FORD MOTOR COMPANY OF CANADA, LIMITED
1956 Meteor All Models 20-page brochure - The Old Car Manual Project (here)
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.
The 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 trim.
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 "meteor-bolt" design molding 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 extends to the rear along with a black "jet exhaust" design impressed into the molding. Wow!
"Safeguard Design" is Meteor's name for Ford's "Lifeguard Design" (here) safety features.
1956 Meteor Meteor Niagara Meteor Rideau Models
INDEX Click links or scroll down
• Meteor Two-Door Sedan
• Meteor Four-Door Sedan
• Meteor Ranch Wgn (2-dr 6-pass)
• Meteor Sedan Delivery
• Engines
• Transmissions
• Clutches
• Meteor Four-Door Sedan
• Meteor Ranch Wgn (2-dr 6-pass)
• Meteor Sedan Delivery
• Engines
• Transmissions
• Clutches
• Niagara Two-Door Sedan
• Niagara Four-Door Sedan
• Niagara Victoria
• Niagara Ranch Wgn (2-dr 6-pass)
• Rims
• Tires
• Colors
• Niagara Four-Door Sedan
• Niagara Victoria
• Niagara Ranch Wgn (2-dr 6-pass)
• Rims
• Tires
• Colors
• Rideau Club Sedan
• Rideau Town Sedan
• Rideau Victoria
• Rideau Four-Door Victoria
• Rideau Crown Victoria
• Rideau Sunliner
• Rideau 6-Pass Country Sedan (4-dr wgn)
• Rideau 8-Pass Country Sedan (4-dr wgn)
• Rideau Town Sedan
• Rideau Victoria
• Rideau Four-Door Victoria
• Rideau Crown Victoria
• Rideau Sunliner
• Rideau 6-Pass Country Sedan (4-dr wgn)
• Rideau 8-Pass Country Sedan (4-dr wgn)
1956 Meteor Models & Specs 12-page PDF (view/print here)
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) Total production 3,305
Std Model 2-70A Shipping Weight 3,200 lb (Std trans) Production 1,843
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 2-bbl carb w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,327 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 5-70A Shipping Weight 3,170 lb (Std trans) Production 1,462
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,196 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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) Total production 4,042
Std Model 2-73A Shipping Weight 3,240 lb (Std trans) Production 2,311
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 2-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,385 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 8.4:1 c/r), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 5-73A Shipping Weight 3,210 lb (Std trans) Production 1,731
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ___ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,254 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ___ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ___ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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 74.0"
Black rubber windshield & rear window molding, no bodyside molding
Single-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total Production 849
Std Model 2-59A Shipping Weight 3,430 lb (Std trans) Production 676
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,754 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 5-59A Shipping Weight 3,400 lb (Std trans) Production 173
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1.2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,623 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
Single-Tone 09-code Carousel Red ext paint
1956 Meteor Sedan Delivery (2-dr, 1-pass/driver, panel delivery)
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) Total production 742
Std Model 2-78A Production 522
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 2-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $1,950 [est] CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
Weights
• 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 Production 220
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 157quot; 4-ply tires, $1,800 [est] CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
Weights
• 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
NOTE
Dry Weight: manufacturer's stated weight by engine type (without coolant, oils, fuel, driver, passengers, or cargo)
Shipping Weight: ready to ship—dry weight plus coolant, oils, & some fuel (without driver, passengers, or cargo)
Curb Weight: ready to drive—Shipping Weight plus full coolant, oils, fuel (without driver, passengers, or cargo)
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): loaded weight (gross)—Curb Weight plus weight of driver, passengers, & actual cargo
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): maximum loaded weight (gross) as recommended by manufacturer
Maximum Load Weight (Payload): GVWR minus Curb Weight
NOTE Weights are typical. Some options may or may not be included.
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 ext paint Colours (below) Toral production 4,285
Std Model 2-70B Shipping Weight 3,250 lb (Std trans) Production 3,466
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 2-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,446 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 5-70B Shipping Weight 3,220 lb (Std trans) Production 819
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,315 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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 ext paint Colours (below) Total production 12,122
Std Model 2-73B Shipping Weight 3,290 lb (Std trans) Production 10,317
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 2-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,501 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 5-73B Shipping Weight 3,260 lb (Std trans) Production 1,805
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,370 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, _____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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 ext paint Colours (below) Total production _____
Std Model 2-64D Shipping Weight 3,345 lb (Std trans) Production _____
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 2-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,621 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (176-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 5-64D Shipping Weight 3,315 lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,490 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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 74.0"
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total production _____
Std Model 2-59B Shipping Weight 3,490 lb (Std trans) Production _____
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bb carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,842 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 5-59B Shipping Weight 3.480 lb (Std trans) Production _____
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1.2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,770 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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 full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total production 1,431
Std Model 2-70C Shipping Weight 3,250 lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,584 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 2-70C Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed, if any w/
• Merc-O-Matic Dr (only), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____ , or
Opt Model 5-70C Shipping Weight ____ lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year none installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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 full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total Production 5,337
Std Model 2-73C Shipping Weight 3,290 lb (Std trans) Production 5,336
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,639 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 2-73C Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed, if any w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr (only), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____ , or
Opt Model 5-73C Shipping Weight 3,260 lb (Std trans) Production 1
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,508 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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 full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total production 2,110
Std Model 2-64C Shipping Weight 3,350 lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,759 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 2-64C Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed, if any w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr (only), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____ , or
Opt Model 5-64C Shipping Weight ____ lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bb carb, mid model-year few installed, if any w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply 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 (6-pass, pillarless hardtop) mid model-year
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total production 545
Std Model 2-57A Shipping Weight 3,440 lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,849 CAD FOB Oakville, or
Opt Model 2-57A Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, few installed w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr (only), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____ , or
Opt Model 5-57A Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, few installed, if any w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply 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 full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total production 206
St Model 2-64A Shipping Weight 3,330 lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,936 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 2-64A Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr (only), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____ , or
Opt Model 5-64A Shipping Weight ____ lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year none installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply 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 (upper), 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 full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total production 479
Std Model 2-76B Shipping Weight 3,450 lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 3.20 (opt 3.89) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $3,007 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 3.89 (opt 3.20) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.22 (opt 3.55) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 2-76B Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr (only), 3.22 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____ , or
Opt Model 5-76B Shipping Weight ____ lb Production ____
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year none installed w/
• Standard, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ ____
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, ____ axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, ____ axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires
1956 Meteor Rideau Sunliner Two-Tone 59-code Carousel Red (upper), 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 74.0"
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total production 1,778
Std Model 2-79D Shipping Weight 3,560 lb (Std trans) Production 1,605
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $2,900 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 comp ratio), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, or
Opt Model 2-79D Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed, if any w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr (only), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ _____ , or
Opt Model 5-79D Shipping Weight 3,530 lb (Std trans) Production 173
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
• Standard, 9-1.2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires, $ _____
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 6.70 x 15" 4-ply 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. Rear Seat: (2-pass) w/ back & bottom cushions removed the back folds forward & down as level-floor loadspace—total length 82.9."
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone ext paint Colours (below) Total production 933
Std Model 2-79B Shipping Weight 3,610 lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, w/
• Standard, 10" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply (opt 6-ply) tires, $3,070 CAD FOB Oakville
• Opt Overdrive, 10" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply (opt 6-ply) tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, (202-hp, 8.4:1 c/r), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply (opt 6-ply) tires, or
Std Model 2-79B Shipping Weight ____ lb (Merc-O-Matic Dr) Production ____
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 4-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed w/
Merc-O-Matic Dr (only), 3.54 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply (opt 6-ply) tires, $ ____ , or
Std Model 5-79B Shipping Weight ____ lb (Std trans) Production ____
Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 137-hp, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 1-bbl carb, mid model-year few installed, if any w/
• Standard, 9-1.2" clutch, 4.09 (opt 4.27) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply (opt 6-ply) tires, $ ____
• Opt Overdrive, 9-1/2" clutch, 4.27 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply (opt 6-ply) tires
• Opt Merc-O-Matic Dr, 3.54 (opt none) axle, 7.10 x 15" 4-ply (opt 6-ply) tires
1956 Meteor Rideau 8-Pass Country Sedan Single-Tone 09-code Carousel Red plus Colonial White (flash) ext paint
All Colours - Single-Tone, Two-Tone, & Tri-Tone 5 page PDF (view/print here)
1956 Meteor Engines Transmissions Clutches Rims Tires
1956 Meteor V-8- 292-cid 202-hp eng & Merc-O-Matic Drive 3-spd auto trans. Photos Barrett-Jackson.
4 Engines
● Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 2-ohv, 90-degree, 3.62" bore x 3.30" stroke, 2-bbl carb, 5 main bearings, 12-volt elec system
• Std 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft torque @ 2400 rpm, 8.0:1 comp ratio, std Standard or opt Overdrive
• Opt 176-hp @ 4400 rpm, 264 lb-ft torque @ 2400 rpm, 8.4:1 comp ratio, opt Merc-O-Matic Drive
● Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 2-ohv, 90-degree, 3.75" bore x 3.30" stroke, 4-bbl carb, 5 main bearings, 12-volt elec system
• Std 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 2600 rpm, 8.0:1 comp ratio, std Standard or opt Overdrive
• Opt 202-hp @ 4600 rpm, 289 lb-ft torque @ 2600 rpm, 8.4:1 comp ratio, opt Merc-O-Matic Drive
● Opt Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 2-ohv, 90-degree, 3.80" bore x 3.44" stroke, 4-bbl carb, 5 main bearings, 12-volt elec system
225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 comp ratio, opt Merc-O-Matic Drive (only)
mid model-year few installed
● Opt Meteor 6 - 223-cid, 2-ohv, Inline, 3.62" bore x 3.60" stroke, 2-bbl carb, 4 main bearings, 12-volt elec system
137-hp @ 4000 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 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
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
Gear selector on steering column, "H" pattern
Overdrive T-handle below instrument panel, push to lock-in, pull to lock-out
Lock-in (engage) push in T-handle at any speed & let-up throttle pedal when above 27-28 mph (auto downshift to 3rd below 21-22 mph), or when car is stopped
Kick-down (to 3rd, for passing) floor throttle pedal, (let-up pedal to auto return to OD)
Lock-out (disengage) pull out T-handle in "kick-down" (3rd) operation, or when car is stopped
● Opt Speed-Trigger Merc-O-Matic Drive (automatic 3-spd)
Low (1st), Intermediate (2nd, Passing Gear), High (3rd), & Reverse
5-Possition Safety-Sequence Selector w/ illuminated indicator dial on steering column
P (Park)
R (Reverse)
N (Neutral)
• start engine
DR (Drive)
• start-out in 2nd & auto upshift to 3rd (typical driving)
• start-out full-throttle in 1st (Speed-Trigger) & auto upshifts to 2nd (30 mph) & 3rd (65 mph)
• full-throttle kick-down to Passing Gear (2nd) (below 65-68 mph & above 17-23 mph)
• full-throttle kick-down to 1st (below 17-23 mph)
LO (Low)
• start-out in 1st & hold (up to 35 mph), auto upshifts to 2nd & 3rd if/when DR selected
• downshift to 2nd & hold (below 60 mph & above 17-23 mph - engine braking)
• downshift to 1st & hold (below 17-23 mph - engine braking)
Clutches
Single, dry-plate, cushion-disc type
• 9-1/2-inch w/ I-6 eng
• 10-inch w/ V-8 eng
Single, dry-plate, cushion-disc type
• 9-1/2-inch w/ I-6 eng
• 10-inch w/ V-8 eng
Rims
Pressed steel, welded
15" dia x 5" wide
5 lug x 4.5" (114.3 mm) bolt pattern
Pressed steel, welded
15" dia x 5" wide
5 lug x 4.5" (114.3 mm) bolt pattern
Tires
Bias 4-ply or 6-ply
6.70 x 15" or 7.10 x 15"
Tubeless, black sidewall
Bias 4-ply or 6-ply
6.70 x 15" or 7.10 x 15"
Tubeless, black sidewall
1956 Meteor Rideau Sunliner All-vinyl weather-resistant interior trim. Electro-hydraulic (motor & oil pump) powered convertible top.
1956 Meteor Rideau Sunliner Opt Meteor V-8 - 312-cid 225-hp engine. 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 colour)
NOTE Meteor plates have no Production Code "scheduled for assembly" date—Ford plates have a date.
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1956 Meteor Meteor Niagara Meteor Rideau Specifications
