“In only one year, it won the heart of all Americans,” a 1956 television commercial said of the newest version of the Thunderbird. “Notice how the spare is encased and mounted outside the car. This gives the Thunderbird a longer, smarter silhouette.”
Ford also touted the car’s “lifeguard” safety features such as a deep-center steering wheel, a padded instrument panel, nylon seat belts, and double-grip door latches. The car was forward-thinking for its time, and 68 years later, it still holds a special place in enthusiasts’ hearts.
The Pick of the Day is a 1956 Ford Thunderbird listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Melville, New York. (Click the link to view the listing)
“Picture yourself driving in this beautiful, restored Thunderbird convertible,” the listing says. “Be the third owner of this vintage car that runs great and looks even better.”
Finished in Raven Black over a two-tone black and white vinyl interior, the car has a classy, formal look to it. The seller says that it comes with the black retractable top as well as a removable hardtop. Add in the wide whitewall tires, rear wheel skirts, and plentiful chrome trim, and the car gives off all the right aesthetic vibes one would expect in a 1950s cruiser.
A magazine advertisement for the 1956 Thunderbird said, “Ready to give you a new lease on driving fun, this newest version of America’s favorite dream car is more stunning in style, more thrilling in power, and more luxurious in comfort.” The car was touted to be a “personal car of distinction” and catered to those who wanted an intimate two-seat driving experience with the creature comforts of a larger sedan. Within its first three years, the Thunderbird sold over 53,000 units.
Under the scooped hood lives a 312ci Y-block V8 that was rated from Ford at 225 horsepower when new. A floor-shifted three-speed Fordomatic automatic transmission sends torque to the rear wheels. Ford was proud of the performance the T-bird provided: “You’ll have to experience it to believe it,” the company said.
The listing asserts that the indicated 79,000-mile reading reflects true mileage on the car. “Race around in style in this head-turner of a car,” the listing concludes. “Fully maintained and garage-kept.”
The asking price is $37,000. Contact the seller today if this car has won your heart!
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, take a flight over to Pick of the Day.
