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 50’s 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 Classic is finished in Prized Thunderbird Peacock Blue (Turquoise) with Contrasting Turquoise and White Interior, and White Port Hole Hardtop and White Soft Top. Restoration included Exterior, Interior Top, Brightwork, and Mechanics.
It comes with a comprehensive complement of amenities including:
Ford Automatic Transmission
Floor mounted Locking Button Shift Selector
Low and Drive Range
Master Guide Power Steering
Telescopic Lifeguard Steering Wheel
Fully Adjustable
Full instrumentation including Domed Speedometer
Factory Tachometer
Directional Signals
Magicaire Heating and Defrost System
Thunderbird AM-FM-Cassette Sound System
Original radio in trunk
Electric Clock
Cigar Lighter (Unused)
White Port Hole Hardtop
New White Soft Top and Rear Window
Chrome Side View Mirror
Wing Windows
Rear Fender Skirts with Fender Shields
Wide Whitewall Radial Tires
Windshield Washers
Beautiful Ford Scripted Hubcaps (5)
“THUNDERBIRD” V-8 Engine
Chrome Engine Dress Up Kitt
312 Cubic Inch Displacement
225 Horsepower
9:1 Compression Ratio
3.80 X 3.44 Inch Bore & Stroke
Four Barrel Carburetion
Dual Stainless Steel Exhaust System with Through Rear Bumper Ports
Optima Battery
Battery Cut off Switch
Show Quality Engine Compartment
Electric Fuel Pump
Improved Starting and Vapor Lock Protection
12 Volt Electrical System
Significant Improved Reliability & Improved Lighting for Evening Tours
Aluminium Radiator, 6 Blade Fan
Significantly Improved Cooling
Full – Flow Oil Filter
Beautiful Rear Continental Kit
Trunk Jack
Side Opening Fresh Air Vents
102 Inch Wheelbase
185 Inch Length
Highly Detailed Engine Compartment
Numbers Matching
Owner’s Manual
Shop Manual
Hardtop Stand
Car Cover
This Magnificent Thunderbird in Prized Thunderbird Peacock Blue with Stunning Turquoise and White Interior is an Absolute Pleasure to Drive and garners all the “oohs and aahs” anytime out. In 1955, T’Bird owners voiced concerns re: inadequate trunk space to accommodate golf clubs. In ‘56, Ford decided to move the spare tire to the exterior Continental Kit allowing for Golf Clubs! Many ‘Baby Bird’ aficionados consider the “56” with the Rear Continental Kit to be the “Most Beautiful and Most Desirable of the Series. The 56’s were the Only Car in America that came with the Rear Continental Wheel as standard fare. It is Excellent Throughout. Ask $64,950.
This vehicle may have an open safety recall. Head to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to perform a quick search.
Some vehicles may be subject to manufacturer safety recalls. See if there are any open safety recalls for this vehicle. This does not include non-safety recalls. Recently announced safety recalls may not yet be posted and there may be a delay between the time a repair is made and before it is reported or posted to the website. Before purchasing, be sure to ask the dealer for an up-to-date status on any recalls.