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I own a 56 and prefer the front grill, interior over the 53-55. As far as the Hot Rod of pickups? Not sure? My favorite is the 41 ******. Now that is the true Hot Rod to me. I don't think the 56 is near the caliber of a 40 or 41 for that fact. I think Foose's 56 and several others in magazines (blown, fuel injected, etc) are establishing the image of a Vintage Hot Rod truck. I do think the popularity of the old trucks is increasing. The 56 has a distinct look to it with the wrap around windshield that definitely sets it apart from other years.
Don't know I'd equate it with a 40 Ford, but with the 55 Chevy, definitely. Classic lines, easily identifiable, brought "Style" to what was previously considered strictly a utility vehicle with the wrap around windshield and big back window. Looks good in any form from stock to full custom to big engined racer, appeals to all ages and both genders. You know it has something extra when you can build one completely from new aftermarket parts, what other post war vehicle can you say that about save maybe the Shelby Cobra.
i don't know i guess i'm just wierd but i kinda like the 57-60 trucks, they just look ugly in a good way, i like the 53-56 trucks too but i just like the orphan years a little better they aren't as popular so it's a little differnt and i'ts just mean looking especally a 4wd, oh well thats my two cents
I have one of each, a '53 and a '56. I bought the '53 30 years ago and also had a '56 too at the time. I could not afford both, so i chose the 53 because of condition and family history, and sold the '56, even though I really like the style of the '56. I regretted selling it for 29 years, until I purchased another '56 last year. It remains a timeless classic that still gives me goosebumps, when I sit and stare at mine or see one on the road.
I think the choice is should I buy a Rough one or a solid one. If you dont get the style you want it kind of defeats itself in comprimise. If you dont get the one you want you will still want it even though you have one similar. but money wise I think a 56 will bring more and be easier sold when you get ready. and yes its the one I like best of those years
All I wanted was a 56. Nothing else would do. I looked for a long time to find mine. I think of it much like your friends. It is the 40 Ford of pickups.
You were one of the friends I was telling about! You and Fattenders56.
This tread has shown me that the 56 is unique - and well worth a premium.
In truth, it is just as much work, trouble, and expense to build a 54 or 55 - and likely just as satisfying to you. But the 56 commands respect not given the others.
It is sort of like the 55 to 57 Chev cars - a 55 is nice, to 56 is ok, but if you want to be special it has to be a 57! It is more than your personal preference, it is also how the public perceives classics.
My 59 project proceeds - it will be on the road this fall. I don't know if my next project will be another driver, or a show truck. If it is to be a driver I have my choice between rch's 54, and a 49 F1 the neighbor is trying to give me.
Yup, square side windows and an optional "Custom Cab" with a big back window. The production numbers say '55 is more rare than '56, but lots of people like the '56 better. In my opinion, the '55 is better, but thats just because I helped my dad build one.
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.