1955 Ford Thunderbird

Description

The 1955 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 ideal hobby cars that can keep up with modern traffic with ease. With a strong following and a massive parts supplier pool, they're simple to maintain and remain reliable investments, year-in and year-out.

This beautiful code E Showshoe White Thunderbird has received a high-quality professional frame-off restoration. Showshoe White was a late entry color in 1955, debuting in February 1955, several months after the Thunderbird itself. The bodywork was expertly restored and fits together as well as any Thunderbird we've seen, with tight gaps and solid shut lines that indicate someone spent an awful lot of time getting it straight. Chrome and brightwork are dazzling, from the eggcrate grille up front to the unique rear bumper with the exhaust ports in the bumper guards. You'll note that in some photos the fender skirts have been removed, but they are included with the car, fully restored, and they fit well with zero issues in this trouble-prone area. It really is as nice as it looks.

Inside, the code XB red and white interior is simply stunning. Combined with the white body and tan top, it's a spectacular look that makes people stop in their tracks when they see it, and you'll never get tired of the beautiful details inside. 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. A/C was installed in an under-dash unit that's period correct and effective, and you'll also note that this car includes optional power windows, as well as an AM/FM/cassette radio in the original location. The gauges are bright and clear, including the aircraft-inspired speedometer, which is illuminated from above thanks to a Plexiglass panel in the dash hood behind it. The tan top is a gorgeous contrast to the white paint, and has been professionally installed so it fits tightly and seals up very well.

Powering all Thunderbirds in 1955 was Ford's innovative Y-block V8 engine, displacing 292 cubic inches and generating an impressive 198 horsepower thanks to a 4-barrel carburetor. Thanks to the frame-off restoration this car has received, the engine bay is highly detailed and the engine runs as well as it looks. From the Ford Red paint on the block to the beautiful cast aluminum Thunderbird valve covers with simulated turquoise inlays, it is showroom fresh in every way. The A/C has been neatly integrated into the accessory drive system, and the electrical system has been upgraded to 12-volts for reliability. The chassis has been restored for show as well, with correct finishes and materials used throughout. A new dual exhaust system has been installed, and gives the car a muscular hum, but remains quiet at speed. Gorgeous 15-inch chrome wire wheels carry modern whitewall radials, so it handles like a new car.

These Thunderbirds are wonderful performers on the road, and are just as fun to drive today as they were in 1955 when they caused traffic jams at Ford dealerships. Call today!