Options at an extra cost were a fully retractable soft top, automatic transmission and a more powerful V8 engine with 5.1 litre (312 cu in) displacement. Porthole windows became available for the hardtop to improve rear view. Other refinements were for example the integration of the exhaust outlets into the rear bumper and controllable air vents in the front wings which significantly improved ventilation inside the car.

More luggage space was created by placing the spare wheel outside the boot on the back of the bumper, the same way as with Ford’s luxury flagship, the Lincoln Continental. For the 1956 model year, numerous improvements were made. The Thunderbird immediately became a sales success, in its first year it sold 24 times better than the Corvette! In its second year, 1956, it was named “America’s Most Exciting Car”. It is, without any doubt, one of the most stylish and iconic cars ever enchanting the American automobile buyers. Unlike the first Corvette which had six-cylinders, the Thunderbird was fitted with a V8 straight away. Ford was thus targeting a wider public then Chevrolet with the sports- and performance-oriented Corvette. Although the Thunderbird has the same wheelbase (259 cm) as its competitor it was designed to be more practical and more luxurious than the Corvette. Introduced in 1955, the Thunderbird was Ford’s response to the Chevrolet Corvette. Wonderful condition, restored several years ago.Fitted with the optional more powerful 5.1 litre engine.

Old t bird for sale