Does it really get any better than an immaculately restored, red 1956 Ford F-100?
Perfect Truck?
Ask anybody what their idea of the "perfect truck" is, and you'll likely get any number of answers. But for us, the very first truck that took things like "styling" and "ergonomics" seriously is a strong consideration. We're talking about the 1956 Ford F-100, of course. And they don't get much nicer than this stunning example we spotted over at RM Sotheby's.
Pinnacle of Styling
Obviously, we aren't alone in that assessment. Most consider the 1953-1956 Ford F-Series pickups to represent the pinnacle of truck styling. So it's no wonder that they're incredibly popular among collectors today.
Little Power, No Problem
That goes for both stock and modified examples. And while we don't have anything against a nice restomod or hot rod, this stock '56 is plenty fine just the way it is. Even with a seriously underpowered 223 cubic-inch six-cylinder under the hood.
Basic but Beautiful
Like the engine bay and exterior, this restoration left no stone unturned inside, either. The standard bench seat, basic dash, and large steering wheel are all in immaculate condition. And there's even a heater to knock off the chills of winter.
Working Class
Of all the many trucks Ford has built over the years, you won't find many more masterfully styled than this one. Even the hood emblems on these trucks were a tiny little work of art. And they actually meant something. In this case, they symbolized that these trucks were the “working side” of the Ford family.
Timeless Classic
Famed automotive historian Patrick Foster summed it up best in his latest book, 100 Years of Ford Trucks. “The styling is timeless, with lines and forms existing together in perfect harmony. The look is honest, and the trucks were dependable and good looking. Simple, basic, and rugged, these trucks were tremendously popular when new and continue to command respect and admiration more than sixty years later.”
Perfect Recipe
Thus, it's no surprise that many consider the 1956 Ford trucks to be the best of the bunch. Simple changes like a wraparound windshield and revised grille were all it took to perfect a recipe that Ford had been working on for decades.
Immaculate Restoration
And this particular '56 is a fine example of the breed. The immaculate restoration was obviously expansive, even extending to the bed. There you'll find a beautifully redone natural wood floor with stainless steel trim.
Chugging Along
Even the engine bay is clean enough to eat off of, which is a testament to the quality of work done here. With a fresh rebuild, we're betting the original motor is good for another 60+ years of chugging along, too.
Best of the Best
Even with just 52,963 actual miles, the previous owner of this stunning pickup just couldn't stand to see it less than perfect. And it's hard to argue with that logic. After all, the best of the best deserves nothing less!
>>Join the conversation about this pristine 1956 F-100 right here in Ford-trucks.com.
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