1956 Ford Thunderbird

1956 Thunderbird Roadster When GI’s who fought in the European Theater of World War II returned home, they brought with them fond memories of the British two-seaters that were a common sight over there. Some even managed to buy some and have them shipped home. It was clear to Detroit that there just might be a market for an American-made version of the famed two-seater open car. The two most famous of these were the MG-TC (and the later TD) and the incredibly handsome Jaguar XK-120. Kaiser introduced the famed Kaiser-Darrin in the early 50s and Chevrolet would follow next with the legendary Corvette. Ford was not blind to Chevrolet’s new car but chose to develop a car along a different path. It was decided their car would be made of metal instead of fiberglass; that it would be powered by a V-8 engine unlike the Corvette’s Blue Flame Six”; and that it would feature roll-down windows and an optional hardtop, unlike the Corvette’s snap-on curtains. They further decided that it would, as much as possible, utilize the same tooling and parts interchangeability with the big Fords of that era. This Magnificent Example is finished in Beautiful Fiesta Red with Beautiful Red + White Interior & Colonial White Hardtop. This Classic underwent a comprehensive frame off restoration including Exterior, Interior, Brightwork, Top, and Mechanics. It comes with a comprehensive complement of amenities including: Fordmatic Automatic Transmission Floor-mounted Locking Button Shift Selector Low and Drive Range Master Guide Power Steering Full instrumentation Factory Tachometer Telescopic Lifeguard Steering Wheel Fully Adjustable Directional Signals Magicaire Heating and Defrost System Signal Seeking Town and Country Radio? Electric Clock Cigar Lighter (Unused) Lifeguard Seat Belts? Tinted Windows Lifeguard Padded Sun Visors Backup Lamps Wing Windows Chrome Engine Dress-Up Kit Rear Fender Shields Rear Continental Kit Rear Fender Skirts Wide Whitewall Tires “Ford” Scripted Wheel Covers Auto