


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.
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
• Meteor Two-Door Sedan
• Meteor Four-Door Sedan
• Meteor Ranch Wgn 2 dr, pass
• Meteor Sdn Delv 2 dr, 1 pass, panel
• Engines
• Transmissions
• Clutches
• Meteor Four-Door Sedan
• Meteor Ranch Wgn 2 dr, pass
• Meteor Sdn Delv 2 dr, 1 pass, panel
• Engines
• Transmissions
• Clutches
• Niagara Two-Door Sedan
• Niagara Four-Door Sedan
• Niagara Victoria 2 dr, hdtp
• Niagara Ranch Wgn 2 dr, 6 pass
• Rims
• Tires
• Colors
• Niagara Four-Door Sedan
• Niagara Victoria 2 dr, hdtp
• Niagara Ranch Wgn 2 dr, 6 pass
• Rims
• Tires
• Colors
• Rideau Club Sedan 2 dr
• Rideau Town Sedan 4 dr
• Rideau Victoria 2 dr, hdtp
• Rideau Four-Door Victoria 4 dr, hdtp
• Rideau Crown Victoria 2 dr, (steel top)
• Rideau Sunliner 2 dr, conv
• Rideau 6-Pass Country Sedan 4 dr, wgn
• Rideau 8-Pass Country Sedan 4 dr, wgn
• Rideau Town Sedan 4 dr
• Rideau Victoria 2 dr, hdtp
• Rideau Four-Door Victoria 4 dr, hdtp
• Rideau Crown Victoria 2 dr, (steel top)
• Rideau Sunliner 2 dr, conv
• Rideau 6-Pass Country Sedan 4 dr, wgn
• Rideau 8-Pass Country Sedan 4 dr, wgn
1956 Meteor Models & Specs (incld engs & trans) - view or print 8-page PDF (here)
1956 Meteor Niagara Models & Specs - view or print 6-page PDF (here)
1956 Meteor Rideau Models & Specs - view or print 10-page PDF (here)
1956 Meteor Niagara Models & Specs - view or print 6-page PDF (here)
1956 Meteor Rideau Models & Specs - view or print 10-page PDF (here)


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 weight 3,200 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight 3,170 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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 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 weight 3,240 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight 3,210 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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 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 weight 3,430 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight 3,400 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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


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 torque @ 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 torque, 8.4:1 cr, 165 psi), 3.54 (opt none) axle
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 $1,800 [est] CAD FOB Oakville (std trans) Production 220
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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
• 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
WEIGHTS
• 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
NOTE Weights are estimated. Basic equipment included.


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 weight 3,250 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight 3,220 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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 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 weight 3,290 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight 3,260 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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 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 weight 3,345 lb
Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 173-hp @ 4400 rpm, 260 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight 3,315 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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


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 weight 3,490 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight 3.480 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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


1956 Meteor Rideau Club Sedan 2 dr, 6 pass
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & jet exhaust design at rear
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 0 + (292/312 V-8) 1,431 = Total 1,431
Std Model 2-70C $2,584 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans) Production 1,431 Shipping weight 3,250 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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


1956 Meteor Rideau Town Sedan 4 dr, 6 pass
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & jet exhaust design at rear
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 1 + (292/312 V-8) 5,336 = Total 5,337
Std Model 2-73C $2,639 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans) Production 5,336 Shipping weight 3,290 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 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 weight 3,260 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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


1956 Meteor Rideau Victoria 2 dr, 6 pass, pillarless hardtop
Bodyside full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & jet exhaust design at rear
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) ? + (292/312 V-8) ? = Total 2,110
Std Model 2-64C $2,759 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans) Production ? Shipping weight 3,350 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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- torque, 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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


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 full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & jet exhaust design at rear
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint Colours (below)
Production Total 545
Std Model 2-57A $2,849 CAD FOB Oakville Production ? Shipping weight 3,440 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 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


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 & jet exhaust design at rear
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 0 + (292/312 V-8) 206 = Total 206
St Model 2-64A $2,936 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans) Production 206 Shipping weight 3,330 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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.


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 & jet exhaust design at rear
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 0 + (292/312 V-8) 479 = Total 479
Std Model 2-76B $3,007 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans) Production 479 Shipping weight 3,450 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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 (upper), Raven Black (lower), plus Colonial White (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 full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & jet exhaust design at rear
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) 173 + (292/312 V-8) 1,605 = Total 1,778
Std Model 2-79D $2,900 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans) Production 1,605 Shipping weight 3,560 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 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 weight 3,530 lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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


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 full-length bright-metal meteor-bolt molding w/ mid flash contrasting paint colour & rear jet exhaust design
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, or Tri-Tone, plus flash colour ext paint Colours (below)
Production (6-cyl) ? + (292/312 V-8) 933 = Total 933
Std Model 2-79B $3,070 CAD FOB Oakville (std trans) Production 933 Shipping weight 3,610 lb
Meteor V-8 - 292-cid, 200-hp @ 4600 rpm, 285 lb-ft torque @ 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 torque, 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor V-8 - 312-cid, 225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 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 weight ____ lb
Meteor I-6 - 223-cid, 137-hp @ 4200 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 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
Single-Tone, Two-Tone, Tri-Tone, & Flash Paint Colours - view or print 5-page PDF (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
● Std Meteor V-8 - 272-cid, 90°, 2-ohv, 3.62" bore x 3.30" stroke, 5 main bearings,
2-bbl carb, 12-volt elec, 4-blade fan, single-exh
• 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°, 2-ohv, 3.75" bore x 3.30" stroke, 5 main bearings,
4-bbl carb, 12-volt elec, 4-blade fan, dual-exh
• 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°, 2-ohv, 3.80" bore x 3.44" stroke, 5 main bearings,
4-bbl carb, 12-volt elec, 4-blade fan, dual-exh
225-hp @ 4600 rpm, 324 lb-ft torque @ 2600 rpm, 9.0:1 comp ratio, 165 psi, opt Merc-O-Matic Drive (required)
mid model-year few installed
● Opt Meteor 6 - 223-cid, In-line, 2-ohv, 3.62" bore x 3.60" stroke, 4 main bearings,
1-bbl carb, 12-volt elec, 3-blade fan, single-exh
137-hp @ 4000 rpm, 202 lb-ft torque @ 1600-2600 rpm, 8.0:1 comp ratio, 150 psi, all std/opt 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 pt, Overdrive 3.5 imp pt, Merc-O-Matic Dr 8 imp gt Differential 2.5 imp pt
Fuel Tank 14.5 imp gal (cars), 15.5 imp gal (wagons & 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
All-helical gears, forged bronze synchronizers
Gear selector on steering column, "H" pattern
Gear selector on steering column, "H" pattern
● 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 push/pull T-handle below instrument panel
Lock-in (engage OD) push in T-handle when car is stopped or at any speed & let-up throttle pedal when above 27-28 mph, (auto disengage & downshift to 3rd below 21-22 mph)
Kick-down (to 3rd, for hill climbing or passing) floor throttle pedal, (let-up pedal to auto return to OD)
Lock-out (disengage OD) pull out T-handle when car is stopped or in "kick down (3rd) operation
Overdrive push/pull T-handle below instrument panel
Lock-in (engage OD) push in T-handle when car is stopped or at any speed & let-up throttle pedal when above 27-28 mph, (auto disengage & downshift to 3rd below 21-22 mph)
Kick-down (to 3rd, for hill climbing or passing) floor throttle pedal, (let-up pedal to auto return to OD)
Lock-out (disengage OD) pull out T-handle when car is stopped or in "kick down (3rd) operation
● 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) car can be towed up to 12 miles at under 40 mph, otherwise with rear wheels raised
• start engine
DR (Drive)
• start-out in 2nd & auto upshift to 3rd (typical driving)
• start-out at full-throttle in 1st (Speed-Trigger) & auto up-shifts 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 up-shifts 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)
P (Park)
R (Reverse)
N (Neutral) car can be towed up to 12 miles at under 40 mph, otherwise with rear wheels raised
• start engine
DR (Drive)
• start-out in 2nd & auto upshift to 3rd (typical driving)
• start-out at full-throttle in 1st (Speed-Trigger) & auto up-shifts 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 up-shifts 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
• Semi-centrifugal, dry, single plate
• 9-1/2" (I-6 223 eng)
• 10" (V-8 272, 292, & 312 eng)
• Pedal free travel 1-1/8 to 1-3/8"
• Semi-centrifugal, dry, single plate
• 9-1/2" (I-6 223 eng)
• 10" (V-8 272, 292, & 312 eng)
• Pedal free travel 1-1/8 to 1-3/8"
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 (opt 6-ply Sedan Delivery)
• 6.70 x 15" or 7.10 x 15"
• Tubeless, black sidewall
• Bias 4-ply (opt 6-ply Sedan Delivery)
• 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












