The first-generation Ford Thunderbird was introduced in 1955 as a response to the growing popularity of sports cars. Designed as a personal luxury vehicle, it featured a distinctive two-door hardtop design that combined elegance with performance. The first generation ran from 1955 through 1957 and established a legacy that would influence many future models. The second year Thunderbird (1956) offered many features not available on the '55 model including a 12-volt electrical system, continental tire kit, deep-dish 'safety' steering wheel, fender vents and hardtop with porthole windows (optional at no additional charge).
Garage Kept-
This 3-owner, garage-kept '56 Thunderbird is original except for some cosmetic upgrades and the current owner states that the indicated milage (39,200) is actual. The roadster looks handsome with a lacquer respray of Raven Black (original color) done in 1992. The finish is in overall good condition with some age blemishes. Exterior accents include the continental kit, rear fender skirts and wide-white bias tires mounted on 15" standard wheels with factory pie-plate hubcaps. Seven (7) Thunderbird wire-wheel hubcaps w/clips-centers are also included. All major chrome components have been re-finished and stainless is in good condition. There is a removable 'porthole' hardtop and a soft-top.
Black And White-
The T-Bird interior was re-upholstered in black and white vinyl (1992) and the carpeting was replaced. An 'Astra-Dial Control Panel" dash houses gauges, tachometer and clock. An aftermarket AM/FM/Cassette sound system has been installed, but the original 'Town and Country' radio has also been upgraded with new electronic components and is included. The Thunderbird is equipped with power windows and Ford designed a telescoping steering wheel for ease of entry and exit.
P Code Y Block Bird-
According to the VIN, this 'P' code Thunderbird was factory equipped with a 312ci/4V engine rated at 225hp/324ft-lbs. The owner states that the top-end has been rebuilt and an electronic ignition was added (1996). The owner has also provided an electric 'parade fan' that is pre-wired and can easily be installed/removed. The 312/Y-block appears to be original right down to the Holley 4000 'Teapot' downdraft 4-barrel (rebuilt), over-sized oil-bath air cleaner and chrome accents. It sounds great and is backed by Ford's time-honored 3-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission. The clean chassis is equipped with optional power steering and power drum brakes. The power steering pump and brake booster have been reconditioned, and many additional components are included with the car.
The first-generation Thunderbird remains a classic model, celebrated for its innovative design and contribution to the personal luxury car segment. This is a nice one!
ALL VEHICLES SOLD "AS IS". TRUE MILEAGE UNKNOWN UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED.
