Detail Info for: Ford : Thunderbird 1955 Ford Thunderbird, good runner, long term owned, recent mechanical overhaul

Transaction Info

Sold On:

01/05/2012

Price:

$ 19900.00

Condition:

Mileage:

61937

Location:

Venice, California, 90291

Seller Type:

Private seller

Vehicle Specification

Year Make Model:

1955 Ford Thunderbird

Submodel Body Type:

Convertible

Engine:

8 - Cyl.

Transmission:

Automatic

VIN:

P5FH151383

Vehicle Title:

Drive Train:

Fuel Type:

Gasoline

Standard Equipment:

Optional Equipment:

Vehicle Detail

1955 Ford Thunderbird Chassis no. P5FH151383 Conceived to challenge Chevrolet's Corvette sports car, the classic Thunderbird convertible debuted in October 1954 for the 1955 model year and was one of the first models produced with Ford's new overhead-valve V8 engine. In '56 Thunderbird configuration, the latter displaced 292ci (4.8 liters) and produced 200bhp, while the optional Special V8 displaced 312ci (5.1 liters) and delivered 215bhp. Introduced in two-seat 'personal car' form, the Thunderbird was intended to appeal to image-conscious younger customers, beating the Corvette hands down in the sales war thanks to its superior V8 engine and greater refinement. Its success took Ford by surprise: 16,000 were sold in the first year when a total of only 10,000 had been expected, and the production run over three years exceeded 53,000. Despite its success, the original concept soon was abandoned and a larger - and slower - four-seat version introduced for 1958, a move that turned the early two-seater cars into collectors' items almost overnight. Today the 1955-'57 Thunderbirds are among the most desirable and sought after of post-war American automobiles. This Goldenrod Yellow car was acquired by the vendor in 1968. Originally a white car, the exterior was repainted some years ago, and is show wear. Unrestored, but mechanically well kept, the T-Bird has recently received a mechanical Restoration, having been stored for some years. Mechanical overhaul included work on the drivetrain, suspension, steering, instrument gauges, 12V conversion, brakes, and tires. Invoices total almost $11,000 and the car runs and drives well as a result. The odometer reads 61,000 miles, but true mileage is unknown. The interior is in reasonable condition with some wear to the seat and panel surfaces. Dash is good with radio, and no tears in the surface. The car is highly optioned with electric seat, AC, and electric windows. It is also equipped with a correct, porthole-free hardtop. As a California native, this offers a perfect opportunity for an absolutely rust-free example of an American icon as a running car to enjoy and restore as you go.