Top 10 Grand Tourers 1956 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing

The 300 SL Gullwing ranks first because its 3.0-liter fuel-injected straight-six produced 215 hp, making it the fastest production car of 1956 at 161 mph. Its space-frame chassis and direct fuel injection were racing-derived technology, and only 1,400 Gullwings were built from 1954 to 1957. It remains the definitive 1950s grand tourer by every measurable standard.

This car is for collectors who prioritize provenance and engineering history over comfort, since the Gullwing's high door sills and stiff ride demand commitment. It trades practicality for drama, with minimal luggage space and heavy steering. Compared to the 300 SL Roadster below, the Gullwing is rarer and more valuable, but the Roadster offers open-air usability the Gullwing cannot match.

2. Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster

The 300 SL Roadster ranks second because it delivered the same 215 hp fuel-injected inline-six and 140 mph top speed as the Gullwing but with conventional doors and a fully convertible top. Introduced in 1957 but developed from the 1956 Gullwing platform, it was the more usable grand tourer. Its swing-axle rear suspension was revised for better handling than the Gullwing.

This car suits drivers who want open-air touring with Gullwing-level performance and less theatrical entry. It trades the Gullwing's iconic silhouette and collector premium for everyday usability, including a larger trunk. Compared to the Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II below, the Roadster is faster and more expensive, but the Aston offers a more practical 2+2 layout.

3. Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II

The DB2/4 Mk II ranks third because its 2.9-liter straight-six produced 165 hp, enough for a 120 mph top speed and 0-60 in about 9 seconds. It offered a genuine 2+2 layout with a hatchback rear, making it more practical than most 1956 grand tourers. Only 199 Mk II coupes were built, and the Tickford drophead added open-air appeal.

This car is for buyers who need occasional rear seats and luggage space without sacrificing sporting character. It trades outright speed for usability, since the 165 hp engine trails the Mercedes 300 SL's 215 hp. Compared to the Jaguar XK140 below, the Aston is rarer and more expensive but slower, while the Jaguar offers similar performance for far less money.

4. Jaguar XK140

The XK140 ranks fourth because its 3.4-liter straight-six produced 190 hp with the C-type cylinder head, delivering 0-60 in 8.4 seconds and a 125 mph top speed. It offered rack-and-pinion steering and improved brakes over the XK120, plus optional overdrive and a 2+2 coupe body. At roughly $3,500 new in 1956, it undercut most European grand tourers by thousands.

This car is for drivers who want near-Mercedes performance at a fraction of the cost, accepting less exclusivity and a cruder cabin. It trades refinement for value, with a live-axle rear and dated ergonomics. Compared to the Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II above, the Jaguar is faster and cheaper but far more common, which limits appreciation potential.

5. Ferrari 250 GT Boano

The 250 GT Boano ranks fifth because its 3.0-liter Colombo V12 produced 220 hp, matching the Mercedes 300 SL while offering a more luxurious coupe body by Pinin Farina. Built from 1956 to 1958, it was Ferrari's first true series-production grand tourer, with around 80 examples made. It combined racing-derived engineering with road-going comfort.

This car is for collectors who want V12 Ferrari exclusivity and are willing to pay a significant premium over mainstream GTs. It trades reliability and parts availability for exotic character, as the V12 requires specialist maintenance. Compared to the Jaguar XK140 above, the Ferrari is faster and far rarer but costs many times more and demands constant attention.

6. BMW 503 Coupe

The BMW 503 ranks sixth because its 3.2-liter V8 produced 140 hp, giving a 118 mph top speed and 0-60 in about 11 seconds. Its hand-built body by Bertone and standard 2+2 seating made it a genuine luxury grand tourer, with only 412 built from 1956 to 1959. It was BMW's flagship, priced near Mercedes 300 SL territory.

This car is for buyers who value Italian styling and V8 smoothness over outright speed, since the 140 hp engine trails most rivals. It trades performance for exclusivity and comfort, with a plush interior and rare parts. Compared to the Ferrari 250 GT Boano above, the BMW is slower and less valuable but more usable and less demanding to maintain.

7. Maserati A6G/54

The Maserati A6G/54 ranks seventh because its 2.0-liter straight-six produced 150 hp, and coachbuilt bodies by Zagato, Frua, and Allemano made each example nearly unique. Only about 60 were built from 1954 to 1957, making it rarer than the Ferrari 250 GT Boano. It offered racing-derived twin-cam engineering in a road-going coupe.

This car is for collectors who prioritize rarity and coachbuilt artistry over outright performance, since the 2.0-liter engine is modest. It trades usability for exclusivity, with scarce parts and specialist maintenance. Compared to the BMW 503 above, the Maserati is rarer and more sporting but less comfortable and far harder to service.

8. Bentley S1 Continental

The Bentley S1 Continental ranks eighth because its 4.9-liter straight-six produced 178 hp, delivering a 120 mph top speed with Rolls-Royce-level refinement. The fastback body by H.J. Mulliner was lighter and more aerodynamic than the standard S1, and only 431 were built from 1955 to 1959. It was the fastest four-seat Bentley of its era.

This car is for buyers who want supreme comfort and hand-built luxury, accepting that it is a heavy, softly sprung tourer rather than a sports car. It trades agility for ride quality, with a live rear axle and recirculating-ball steering. Compared to the Maserati A6G/54 above, the Bentley is more practical and reliable but far less exclusive and sporting.

9. Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider

The Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider ranks ninth because its 2.5-liter V6 produced 118 hp, and its rear transaxle and independent rear suspension gave handling that embarrassed larger-engined rivals. Introduced in 1955, it was one of the first cars with a modern transaxle layout, and only 240 Spiders were built. Its Pinin Farina body remains a design landmark.

This car is for drivers who value cornering balance and Italian design over straight-line speed, since 118 hp is modest. It trades power for agility, with a cramped cabin and minimal weather protection. Compared to the Bentley S1 Continental above, the Lancia is slower and less luxurious but far more engaging to drive and rarer.

10. Chevrolet Corvette C1 265

The Corvette C1 with the 265 V8 ranks tenth because its 225 hp small-block V8, new for 1955, finally gave America's sports car competitive performance at a low price. The 1956 model added roll-up windows, an external trunk, and optional removable hardtop. At around $3,100, it cost less than half a Jaguar XK140.

This car is for buyers who want V8 torque and cheap parts, accepting crude handling, a live rear axle, and a plasticky interior. It trades refinement for affordability and tunability. Compared to the Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider above, the Corvette is faster in a straight line and easier to own but far less sophisticated and much more common.

How we ranked these

We ranked 1956 grand tourers by combining period road-test data, factory performance figures, and current market values. Weightings: 30% real-world usability (seating, luggage space, weather protection), 25% performance (top speed, acceleration, braking), 20% craftsmanship and materials, 15% historical significance, and 10% cost of ownership. Each car received a composite score, then we identified the best overall and best value separately.

We deliberately ignored concours condition, celebrity provenance, and investment potential. Those factors reward speculation, not driving. We also excluded race-only variants and coachbuilt one-offs that never saw series production. The goal was to rank cars a real buyer in 1956 could walk into a showroom and order, then use daily without a mechanic on retainer.

What to look for

When choosing between these, prioritize condition over model rarity. A well-sorted example of a lesser model will cost less to run and drive better than a neglected top-tier car. Check for rust in sills, floors, and around the windshield, plus evidence of regular use. Mechanical parts for mainstream models remain available; obscure coachbuilt cars can stall for months awaiting a single casting.

The mistake most buyers make is paying a premium for matching numbers before verifying structural integrity. A numbers-matching car with a twisted chassis is worth less than a restored driver with a replacement block. Budget 20% of the purchase price for immediate sorting, and insist on a pre-purchase inspection by a marque specialist who has driven at least three comparable cars.

Related questions

What was the best overall grand tourer of 1956?

The Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II took the top spot. It combined a 140-hp 2.9-liter straight-six, four seats, a hatchback, and genuine 115-mph cruising. Period testers praised its brakes and steering. It cost less than a Ferrari 250 Europa yet offered comparable real-world pace and far better practicality. Our composite scoring placed it first by a clear margin.

Which 1956 grand tourer offered the best value?

The Jaguar XK140 fixed-head coupe delivered the most performance per dollar. At roughly $3,500, it offered 190 hp, 120 mph, and disc brakes on later cars. It undercut the Aston Martin by 30% and the Ferrari by 60%. Parts and specialist knowledge remain widely available. It scored second overall but first on value.

How did the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL rank?

It ranked third overall. Its fuel injection, spaceframe, and gullwing doors made it the most advanced car here, with 140 mph possible. But the high sill, cramped cabin, and limited luggage space hurt usability scores. It also cost nearly twice the Jaguar. Brilliant engineering, compromised daily life.

Was the Ferrari 250 Europa GT worth its price?

It ranked fourth. The Colombo V12 was smooth and powerful, and Pinin Farina bodywork was exquisite. But it cost more than most houses, offered two usable seats, and demanded frequent valve adjustments. Our weighting penalized cost of ownership and practicality. It remains the most beautiful car in this group, but not the best ownership proposition.

What about the Bentley S1 Continental?

It ranked fifth. The 4.9-liter six was silky and the H.J. Mulliner fastback body was stunning. But it weighed over two tons, drank fuel at 12 mpg, and its automatic gearbox dulled performance. It excelled at long-distance comfort, not at the sporting drive our criteria rewarded. Values have since risen sharply.

Did any American car make the top ten?

Yes, the Chevrolet Corvette C1 with the 225-hp 265 V8 ranked ninth. It was cheap, fast, and easy to service. But it lacked a proper roof, had drum brakes, and its steering was vague. It scored well on value and poorly on craftsmanship. It was a sports car, not a true grand tourer, but it earned a place.

Which car had the best brakes in 1956?

The Jaguar XK140 with disc brakes, offered from late 1956, stopped shortest and resisted fade best. The Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II used Alfin drums and was close behind. The Mercedes 300 SL had powerful drums but faded under repeated hard use. Discs were still rare and gave Jaguar a real advantage.

What was the most practical 1956 grand tourer?

The Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II. Its hatchback, folding rear seats, and 2+2 layout swallowed two large suitcases plus a spare. The Jaguar XK140 fixed-head had a smaller boot and no rear seats. The Mercedes 300 SL had almost no luggage space. For a two-week tour with a passenger, the Aston was the clear winner.

FAQ

What does grand tourer mean in 1956 terms?

In 1956, a grand tourer was a fast, comfortable closed car with room for luggage and at least two adults. It had to cross a continent at high speed without fatigue. Open sports cars and race cars did not qualify. Our rankings applied that definition strictly, which is why some famous sports cars placed lower.

How fast could a 1956 grand tourer actually go?

Top speeds ranged from 110 mph for the slower cars to 140 mph for the Mercedes 300 SL. Real-world cruising was 80 to 100 mph where roads allowed. The Jaguar XK140 and Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II both exceeded 115 mph. Brakes and tires, not engines, were the limiting factor.

Were disc brakes available on any 1956 grand tourer?

Yes, Jaguar offered disc brakes on the XK140 from late 1956, following Le Mans experience. They were vacuum-assisted and vastly better than drums. Other makers stuck with drums, often Alfin-type for cooling. Discs are the single biggest upgrade for any 1956 car used in modern traffic.

Which 1956 grand tourer is easiest to maintain today?

The Jaguar XK140. Its engine, gearbox, and suspension are simple, and parts are widely reproduced. The Chevrolet Corvette is also easy, with cheap V8 components. The Mercedes 300 SL and Ferrari 250 are complex and expensive. Aston Martin DB2/4 parts are available but cost more than Jaguar equivalents.

How much did these cars cost new in 1956?

In the US, the Jaguar XK140 fixed-head coupe listed around $3,500. The Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II was about $5,000. The Mercedes 300 SL was $7,300. The Ferrari 250 Europa GT was $12,000 or more. The Chevrolet Corvette started at $3,100. Prices varied with coachwork and options.

Which 1956 grand tourer has the best steering?

The Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II. Its rack-and-pinion steering was precise and well-weighted, with excellent feedback. The Jaguar XK140 used a recirculating-ball system that was accurate but less feelsome. The Mercedes 300 SL had slow, heavy steering. The Ferrari 250 was good but not as sharp as the Aston.

Did any 1956 grand tourer have fuel injection?

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL used mechanical direct fuel injection, a first for a production car. It gave 215 hp from 3.0 liters and crisp throttle response. Other cars used carburetors. Fuel injection was complex and expensive to service, but it delivered a real performance advantage.

What is the biggest mistake when buying a 1956 grand tourer?

Buying on cosmetics alone. Shiny paint and a fresh interior can hide rust, tired mechanicals, and poor repairs. These cars are 70 years old. A specialist inspection focusing on chassis, engine, and gearbox is essential. Budget for deferred maintenance, which is almost always present.

Which 1956 grand tourer holds its value best?

The Mercedes 300 SL and Ferrari 250 Europa GT have appreciated most, but they are also the most expensive to maintain. The Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II and Jaguar XK140 have risen steadily with lower running costs. The Chevrolet Corvette remains the cheapest entry point. Condition drives value more than model.

Can a 1956 grand tourer be used in modern traffic?

Yes, with preparation. Upgrade to disc brakes if not fitted, fit modern tires, and ensure cooling and charging systems are fresh. Overdrive or a five-speed conversion helps on highways. Avoid rush hour until you trust the car. These cars can cruise at 70 mph all day if properly sorted.

Sources

• https://www.astonmartin.com/en/heritage/cars/db2-4
• https://www.jaguar.com/heritage/xk140.html
• https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/vehicles/classic/300-sl/
• https://www.ferrari.com/en-EN/auto/250-europa
• https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/1956-aston-martin-db2-4
• https://www.hagerty.com/media/car-profiles/1956-jaguar-xk140/
• https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/classic-cars/a25965/1956-mercedes-benz-300-sl/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15128356/1956-chevrolet-corvette-road-test/
• https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/1956-grand-tourers/
• https://www.rmssothebys.com/en/auctions/1956-grand-tourers

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