Though they're more seldom talked about and certainly far more seldom seen than counterparts from Ford and GM, MoPar classics - when we do come across them - invariably provide rock solid evidence that Chrysler really did make some very cool and technically advanced cars all the way back in the '50s. This 1956 Dodge Royal Lancer is very much one of those classics. It's an awesome-looking, numbers-matching rolling time capsule piece with an inspired futuristic style that instantly reminds us of a much simpler time.
The two-tone white and gold paint job, with its very distinct pattern, is a great look for this vintage sedan. Chrysler went all out to set their offerings apart from the competition as far as aesthetics, as well as engineering, and you can see here that the results of that effort, as far as the former is concerned, landed squarely to produce a model that's very distinct from the other American-made sedans of its era. This car will put a smile on your face, as there's just so much to like about its looks - the awesome assemblage of chrome up front that includes a pair of twin expanses of chrome straddling the Dodge emblem over the prominent front bumper, the noticeably shorter cabin with an almost aftermarket-looking appearance that belies its factory origin, the dramatic curve around the corners of the rear windshield and those trim tail fins. Having undergone a thorough restoration, this Lancer is a great specimen of its model, with its front and rear bumpers looking especially clean, and those long, curved stretches of trim on the sides separating gold and white impressively straight and undented. It's a great, futuristic-looking car representing exceptionally well some 60 plus years after it started life.
Some serious inspiration went into creating the very era-appropriate yet vibrant interior. White vinyl and gray cloth cover exceedingly well-padded front and back bench seats to create a very comfortable driving environment for you and your passengers. Up front, just beyond the stock Chrysler steering wheel, there are several reminders that Chrysler was very much a stylistic maverick during this era - the unique curvature of the very clean dash area and the way those gauges, sporting impressively transparent lenses, are spread across the driver's vantage point are just a couple. At the very left of the dash sits perhaps the most unique feature inside - the controls for Chrysler's push button PowerFlite transmission. No mere novelty, the transmission's relative simplicity and durability caused Chrysler to keep it around well after the launch of a more modern model, due to consumer demand. The very spacious trunk area in back is well-lined in gray carpeting, with a full-size spare sitting off to the side.
The original 315 cubic inch V8 sits under the hood and it continues to acquit itself impressively, starting strong, running smoothly and, paired with the PowerFlite transmission, making for a dependable drivetrain. Despite its concentration on styling, Chrysler certainly didn't scrimp in the engine department - the 315's relatively long stroke gives it a surprising 309 lb./ft. of torque to go along with its 218 horsepower. Everything is looking nice and fresh inside the engine bay, with fresh belts and hoses installed for added dependability. This truly awesome MoPar classic sits on a set of stock wheels decked out with 15" Canoy Classic tires.
Looking for a classic vintage sedan that will truly stand apart from all others of its era? You really have to see this 1956 Dodge Royal Lancer. Call today!