1956 Ford Thunderbird Convertible
In 1955, while the production of the first Thunderbirds was nearing completion Ford had a problem, they lacked a name for their new sports car. 5,000 names for the vehicle were suggested including Beaver, Detroiter, Runabout, and Savile. These names were unimpressive to the team working on the sports car. Crusoe offered a $250 suit to anyone who could do better. Ford stylist Alden Giberson stepped up to the challenge and recommended the name that the team would go with, Thunderbird. Thx to Ford.com
For consignment, a '56 T-bird in all its iconic glory. Very few cars have the distinguished visual notoriety of the 50's Thunderbirds. This one presents with just 56,610 title verified actual miles and is a fine representation with some desirable options in addition to its standard features.
Exterior
Resprayed in Fiesta Red many years ago, it makes a statement like no other color can. The long hood is fronted by round headlights inset in forward leaning surroundings. The bumper, with its rocket shaped bumperettes is a bold and aggressive design feature, while the hood scoop adds to the sportiness. The chrome bumpers, front and rear, are in great shape and most of the brightwork is too. This car has the optional rear fender skirts, which are enhanced by a chrome trim piece. The continental kit was standard for '56 and is still on this car in beautiful condition. While we're back here, we note the tail lights which contain a reverse light in a triangular extension of the brake light, topped by a red reflector. This design would be changed in '57 placing the reverse lights in the center of the red circles. The '56 configuration accentuates the fins on the car better and is a nice accent to the continental kit. The Colonial White fiberglass hardtop, portholes and all, are in great shape and match the wide whitewall tires which are wrapped around 15-inch wire wheels. There are numerous imperfections in the paint including cracks, discolored touch-up, chips, and bubbling. Despite these flaws, the car shows well as a whole.
Interior
A red and white bench seat with a wrap-around stitched insert is in excellent condition with the driver's side showing a few very minor wear marks. The door cards with stylized aluminum inserts and stitched panels are as pure a 50's piece as you'll find. The patterns of the red and metal door panels flow continuously through the dashboard where an arched speedometer mirrors the curvature of the steering wheel. A tachometer and clock in round red bezels flank the speedometer, and switches are neatly arranged on the silver band below. An AM radio is found in the center just below an interior light which serves in lieu of an overhead dome light. The entire dash is covered with a padded, stitched red vinyl overlay. A floor mounted shifter is a small sturdy thing, housed in a small chrome gate. The red loop style carpet is faded in some areas while the grates to the fender vents are in excellent shape. The trunk is lined with a loose fitting plaid mat showing some staining.
Drivetrain
The correct 312ci V8 is present, and these engines were rated at 225 horsepower. This one is connected to a Ford O-Matic 3-speed automatic transmission which sends power to the rear wheels via a Dana 44 axle with 3.31 gears. A single 4-barrel carburetor meters the gas. The painted block, finned Thunderbird valve covers, and chrome air element box all make for a dramatic presentation in the engine bay. It's very clean and show ready! Power assisted drum brakes are found at each wheel.
Undercarriage
Relatively clean underneath with only minor spots of surface rust. The dual exhaust flows through the X-frame where it meets a pair of stock style mufflers, then up over the rear axle, turning outward to meet a funnel that directs the exhaust out of cut outs in the chrome bumper wrap-around, how cool! Independent suspension up front with coil spring is found and in back, leaf springs.
Drive-Ability
We left the top on for our test loop and fired up the V8. The low center of gravity and the open bench seat combine for a pleasant driving experience. Acceleration was very good, and the power brakes did a good job at countering the momentum. A longer wheelbase makes for smooth turns and visibility is good with the big back window, even the portholes, help with momentary blind spot checks. We noted the heater blower, radio, clock and reverse lights were all non functional.
We represent Thunderbirds of every year, condition, and color. This Fiesta Red is a coral color and a spectacular hue of red. This is a solid car and a rolling example of 50's style, representing America's foray into the sports car and "go fast" world of less than boring pedestrian cars!
P6FH149273
P-312ci 4bbl V8 225hp
6-1956
F-Dearborn, MI Assy Plant
H-Thunderbird
149273-Sequential Unit Number
WARRANTY PLATE
BODY 40-Thunderbird
COLOR K-Fiesta Red
TRIM XB-Red & White Vinyl
PRODUCTION CODE 10L-November 10th
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