Ford Thunderbird - An American Classic

Ford unveiled the Thunderbird at the Detroit Auto Show on February 20, 1954. The first production car came off the line on September 9, 1954, and went on sale on October 22 as a 1955 model, and sold briskly; 3,500 orders were placed in the first ten days of sale. While only 10,000 were planned, 16,155 were sold in 1955.

It included fender skirts and a removable fiberglass top as standard equipment, with a fabric convertible top as a commonly specified option. The engine was Ford's proven 292-cubic-inch OHV 292 Y-block V8, which got 18MPG. The exhaust pipes exited through twin bumper guards bolted to the rear bumper.

The car used existing chassis and suspension design and off-the-shelf Ford mechanical components. It was constructed body-on-frame frame using a version of the standard Ford design cut-down to a 102-inch wheelbase identical the Corvette's. It was produced with a Fordomatic automatic or manual overdrive transmissions and featured four-way powered seats and pushbutton interior door handles. Other unique features were a telescoping steering wheeland a tachometer.

A rare domestic two-seater for the era, it was designed to be a brisk luxury tourer and not a sports car, and could hit 110-120mph.

This particular car is an American Classic. Beautiful two-tone Thunderbird Blue exterior with White Hardtop & brand new White Soft Top. With only 92,000 Miles, it has always been garaged. It is in excellent condition and is mechanically very sound with over $6K of recent work. The VIN, engine & transmission numbers match and are all period correct. The original engine-runs great!

The electrical system has been upgraded from 6 volt to 12 volts. New distributor cap & wires. Has new battery and new electric motor for wipers. Complete New Front End suspension components installed-full set of front end kit bushings and ball joints, etc. It has new power steering sleeve, new u-joints, new exhaust pipes, chrome tips & clamps. The brake was recently overhauled. It has a new thermostat, gaskets and fresh coolant. All electrical recently examined and repaired as needed. It has new interior upholstery & carpeting and the port hole hardtop has been completely re-done as well. It has a new battery, new engine mount bushings, new rear main seals & new rubber mounts, new front end suspension components: upper and lower A-arms and ball joint. Recent front-end alignment and the tires in good condition.

The car runs and drives very well, does not shake or vibrate. If you are looking for a great, and very nice driver-quality 1955 Thunderbird, this is the car for you!

On Apr-14-19 at 16:16:25 PDT, seller added the following information:

The rear wheel spat (covers) are in the truck and come with the car. Also, there are new underside photos now posted as of 4-14-19.