Ford Fairlane (1st generation)
The flagship of Ford's 1955 line-up, bringing mid-century style to the American family.
- Power
- 162 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.6 s
- Top speed
- 101 mph
- Est. value
- $10k–$36k
About the Ford Fairlane
Introduced in 1955 to replace the Crestline, the Fairlane was Ford's premier full-size offering, distinguished by its signature stainless steel 'Fairlane stripe' that swept down the side. The Town Sedan was the most popular variant in the range, offering a practical four-door configuration with the upscale trim of the Fairlane series. Under the hood, the 272 cubic-inch Y-block V8 provided a significant power boost over the base inline-six, reflecting the era's growing demand for performance. Its design featured the iconic wraparound windshield and hooded headlights that defined mid-50s American automotive aesthetics.
Ford Fairlane specs
The Ford Fairlane produces 162 bhp (121 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.6 seconds and has a top speed of 101 mph (163 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Fairlane |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | Town Sedan |
| Years | 1955–1956 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,100 when new |
| Engine | 4.5-litre Y-block V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,457 cc (4.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 162 bhp (121 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 11.6 s |
| Top speed | 101 mph (163 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,482 kg (3,267 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 109 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Fairlane worth?
A typical Ford Fairlane is estimated to be worth $10,000 – $36,000 (about £7,500 – £27,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,100.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Fairlane rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Fairlane is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Fairlane fun facts
- The Fairlane was named after Henry Ford's 'Fair Lane' estate in Dearborn, Michigan.
- The 1955 Town Sedan was Ford's best-selling individual body style for the year, with over 250,000 units produced.
- 1955 was the first year Ford offered factory-installed seat belts, though they were a rarely selected option at the time.
