1956 Ford Thunderbird

Description

The 1956 Ford Thunderbird is one of those designs that never goes out of style, and remains an instantly-identifiable icon of the 50s. Beautifully styled, comfortable, and with enough performance to keep almost any gearhead happy, they are perhaps the best combination of early styling and functionality.

This beautiful Thunderbird Blue example has recently received a documented frame-off restoration complements of noted Thunderbird expert Amos Minter. It was originally code KE Fiesta Red and Showshoe White but now wears bright Thunderbird Blue, which was borrowed from the 1955 color pallet. Classically elegant, the bright turquoise paint emphasizes the clean, unadorned lines of the T-Bird and brilliantly defines the 1950s. If you know Amos Minter's work, you know this is a nice 'Bird, and even though it has been driven over the past few years, it still presents quite well. Fit and finish are good and it has recently been to the body shop to have any chips touched up, so it looks great. Chrome and brightwork are dazzling, from the eggcrate grille up front to the unique rear bumper with the exhaust ports in the outside corners.

Obviously, code XB red and white wouldn't work here so it was switched to 1955 code XC, which was turquoise and white. It's almost exactly the same color as the body, making for a spectacular look that makes people stop in their tracks when they see it. The engine-turned panel that runs across the door panels and dash is like jewelry, and the seats themselves make the bench feel like separate buckets. You'll also note that this car sports a freshly-serviced aftermarket A/C unit, as well as an AM/FM/cassette radio and a 3-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission, so it's a pleasure to drive. You may not have noticed the slightly undersized steering wheel, which is an accurate replica of the original, just smaller, but it makes a big difference in accessibility. New carpets are underfoot, protected by matching monogrammed floor mats. It comes with a freshly-painted white porthole hardtop as well as a matching white vinyl top that stows behind the seats.

Powering all Thunderbirds in 1956 was Ford's Y-block V8 engine, now displacing 312 cubic inches and generating an impressive 225 horsepower thanks to a recently rebuilt 4-barrel carburetor and valve adjustment. Thanks to the frame-off restoration, the engine bay was highly detailed and while it shows a few signs of use today, the engine still runs even better than it looks. From the Ford Red paint on the block to the beautiful cast aluminum Thunderbird valve covers with simulated turquoise inlays, it looks the part of Ford's personal/luxury car. The undercarriage sports replaced front springs to restore ride quality, recently serviced brakes, and a new dual exhaust system. Flashy 15-inch stainless steel wire wheels wear new spinners and a set of road-worthy 205/75/15 wide whitewall radials.

These Thunderbirds are wonderful performers on the road, and are just as fun to drive today as they were in 1956. Amos Minter is a legend in Thunderbird circles, and while this is one of his older restorations, the quality still shines through. If you've been searching for a quality car with no stories, you've just found it. Call today!