1955 Ford Thunderbird

Description

Early Thunderbirds like this 1955 example remain some of the most collectable '50s cars and it's easy to understand why. With strong-performing V8s under the hood, a dash of luxury, and style that still makes people smile even more than fifty years later, these are ideal cars for the collector who enjoys putting his machinery on the road.

The bodywork was done to a good standard just a few years ago, and all the trouble-prone areas including around the rear wheel openings, under the seats, and in the trunk show quite well thanks to long-term ownership in a warm, dry climate. Code A Raven Black paint covers every square inch of the body to great effect; this one will stop traffic! The top stashes behind the seat, giving it a clean, unbroken line front to rear that's uninterrupted by a top stack. Fit and finish are good, with doors that feel substantial and a trunk lid that fits so well that the gas filler is neatly centered in its opening. Interestingly, fender skirts were optional on early 'Birds and while a vast majority have them, this car's open wheel wells give it a lighter, sportier look that is kind of refreshing when compared to its siblings. There's also plenty of chrome that looks awesome against the black paint, including the twin tailpipes poking through the rear bumper guards.

The main reason the Thunderbird out-sold the Corvette can be found inside. Where the Corvette remained a true sports car, the Thunderbird was luxurious with a wide variety of power options such as the power seat found in this one. Few enthusiasts will disagree that the early Thunderbird interior is one of the most stylish ever created, and this car offers a nice blend of restored components and originality, with everything showing up vividly against the black paint. From the two-tone seats to the instrument panel with a Plexiglas window to light it from behind, to the strip of bright machine-turned trim that stretches across the dash, it's the kind of flash we'll never see again. The steering wheel might be showing its age, along with the clock and tachometer, but once you're out on the open road with the top down, you'll never give it a second thought. Carpets are in good shape and overhead there's a new black canvas folding convertible top as well as a correct early non-porthole hard top.

Under the hood is the "Thunderbird Special" 292 cubic inch V8 which purrs sweetly through an authentic dual exhaust system. Bright red engine paint was a Thunderbird design statement, along with the bright chrome air cleaner and gorgeous cast aluminum valve covers that were part of a dress-up kit. This one has been upgraded to a 12-volt electrical system, ensuring quick starts every time. It has been recently and extensively serviced, including a valve job, new rings and bearings, and fresh gaskets throughout. The Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission is an excellent choice given the Thunderbird's personal luxury mission, and it, too, was recently rebuilt with a new torque converter, all of which are about 500 miles old. There are also new seals in the rear end and it cruises on a set of 6.70-15 whitewalls, original 15-inch steel wheels, and correct hubcaps.

Early Thunderbrids remain rock-solid collector cars and you can buy this one, enjoy it for a few years, and be confident that it will always have a strong market value. Call today!