1956 Mercury Sabre

Step aboard and you’ll notice the proportions first—16 feet of low, lean mahogany with that long foredeck begging for fresh varnish and a summer morning. The inline-6 sits deep and purposeful, with twin carbs that, once sorted, should give you that smooth, classic inboard growl. Original hardware and controls mean you’re not dealing with a mishmash of later add-ons; it still feels like a proper mid‑50s runabout, not a hot rod. The seating layout is simple and social, with clear sightlines over the bow that make close-quarters maneuvering far less intimidating than many vintage hulls of this era.

A compact 16-foot mahogany runabout is right at home on protected waters, bays, and calm coastal inlets where short hops and shoreline cruising are the norm. The Sabre’s inboard layout keeps weight centered, giving a reassuring, predictable ride when afternoon chop picks up. Its size makes trailering and storage straightforward, while still offering enough cockpit space for friends and family to enjoy slow cruises or spirited runs. The classic lines and brightwork turn heads at local docks and ramps, and the simple mechanical systems suit owners who prefer hands-on maintenance over complex modern electronics.