Vehicle Description
The 1955 Ford Thunderbird was a game-changer. Sure, the Corvette
set the stage, but the Thunderbird introduced the personal luxury
car, a concept that has proven remarkably durable in the 50-odd
years since its introduction. This lovely 1955 T-Bird shows you why
these are such enduring favorites, and why no collection is
complete without one today.
If you ask someone to close their eyes and think of a Thunderbird,
this Torch Red roadster is quite likely what they'll imagine.
Beautifully proportioned, neatly styled, and with neat little
details throughout that told the world that Ford was serious about
their 2-seater. This one was restored a few years ago and has seen
some use since then, but you really can't go wrong with an early
'Bird. The paint is bright, offering a depth and clarity that even
the best finishes in 1955 couldn't match, and while it shows a few
nicks and bumps, none of it detracts from the pure '50s fun this
car represents. The '55's trim proportions, simple lines, and lack
of extras make them a favorite among collectors, and it's easy to
see why. Body gaps are decent and the fender skirts fit flush with
the quarter panels, indicative of a car that has never needed major
surgery in that area. The chrome is nicely refinished, and those
details I mentioned, including the hash marks on the fenders, the
hood scoop, and jet-inspired taillights, are all in great
shape.
Red and white is the theme inside, too, where you'll find a neatly
restored interior that has all the correct bells and whistles. The
two-tone bench seat is supportive with firm foam under the supple
seat cover, and better yet, it's comfortable! Engine-turned panels
sweep from the doors onto the dash, giving the 'Bird a racy feel,
and the execution is crisp and highly detailed. The gauges appear
to be original pieces, a factory array that has been beloved for
decades by T-Bird enthusiasts. An original AM radio is still in the
factory slot, another testament to how well this Baby Bird has been
respected through the years. And here's an unusual fact: you could
have either a folding convertible top or a removable hardtop at no
cost, but getting both was extra, so the fac that this one carries
both is very special, especially since the hardtop is a desirable
porthole unit from a later model. The trunk is very spacious and
offers a correct rubber mat and a full-size bias-ply spare, should
you ever need it.
The only engine available in 1955 was a P-code 292 cubic inch
"Y-block" V8, which when linked to a manual transmission, makes 193
horsepower. Well-maintained and detailed since the car was
restored, it fires easily and wears a proper Thunderbird dress-up
kit that includes a chrome air cleaner and those gorgeous finned
cast aluminum valve covers. Ford Red paint on the block still looks
good and the unusual air cleaner makes use of the hood scoop for
fresh air. Underneath, it's extremely solid and clean, with
body-colored floors framed by a black frame and a newer dual
exhaust system that exits through the rear bumper guards. Beautiful
6.70-15 whitewall Firestone bias-plys have been fitted and wear
full wheel covers that look appropriate.
A fully-sorted first-year Thunderbird is something that every
hobbyist should experience. This one isn't perfect, but if you want
a great driver with a lot of class, this 'Bird is hard to beat.
Call today!