Ads touted the Lincoln Premiere as "the longest, lowest, most powerful Lincoln of all time." Its long overhangs and wraparound windshield caught the attention of contemporary reviewers. A full complement of power accessories, a nod to safety, and a vast color palette exemplifying the height of 1950s fashion led to Lincoln nearly doubling sales over the previous year.

Not just a cosmetic redesign, recent successes at La Carrera Panamericana resulted in a focus on performance and handling. Displacement increased to 368 cubic inches, boasting improved drivability with peak torque at midrange rpm. With a new lowered frame and a front suspension re-engineered by Earle MacPherson, inventor of the MacPherson strut, critics lauded the Premiere for improved cornering without sacrificing a plush ride. With production of only 2,447 units, the 1956 Premiere convertible has emerged as one of the most desirable postwar Lincolns. This Premiere received a total restoration completed in 2010. The work included the installation of a new old stock 1956 Lincoln V-8 engine with intact original finishes acquired from the Ford Technical School.