1956 Ford Thunderbird

Coveted when new, classic 1955-1957 Ford Thunderbirds have never gone out of favor with enthusiasts and collectors. The stylish, V-8-powered two-seater remain as popular as ever. That probably accounts for the impressive number of early 'Birds that are still being driven and enjoyed by collectors. Long family histories definitely boost a collectible car's resilience. This recently restored Fiesta Red 1956 Ford Thunderbird has been in the same family for 40 years. I have been around the car since he was twenty years old. In addition to the shiny new paint, the engine and transmission were rebuilt in 2019. - The P in the VIN indicates that this Thunderbird was built with a 312-cubic inch Ford Y block V-8. It was mated to a three-speed overdrive manual transmission with a floor shifter. The manual transmission with overdrive meant the horsepower rating was 215. The engine was professionally rebuilt in 2019 and has only accumulated 600 miles of use since. The transmission was rebuilt at the same time. Receipts for the work are included with the car. An electric fuel pump was added at the time for reliability.- that it simplifies cold starts so a single pump starts the engine, which the seller states purrs like a kitten and doesn't smoke.- the transmission shifts smoothly and there are no leaks or weeping from the powertrain. Pastel shades were popular on first generation Thunderbirds, but you can't beat a bright red convertible. The Fiesta Red paint was applied in 2019. - the paint condition is excellent. This car was originally equipped with a soft top and a removable hardtop. The porthole hardtop is Colonial White. Both tops are included with the sale. The seller rates the paint condition as very good. All the seals and weatherstripping were replaced during the restoration. The glass is good. The seller rates the interior condition as fair. Photos show some sun fading. The original Town and Country radio is still in the dash. The seller admits that the speedometer, odometer and clock aren't working. He rates the interior trim as -average. - The chassis and suspension components were serviced in 2019 at the time of the restoration.- the tires are new as they still have the nubs on them. The wire wheel covers appear excellent in the photos, as does the one on the spare tire cover. The car has power steering, which does exhibit a little play. Additional paperwork includes receipts for recent restoration work, including refinishing the car and the rebuild of the powertrain components. This Fiesta Red 1956 Ford Thunderbird has been in the same family for the last 40 years. The seller's brother owned it for much of that time. The seller feels that the car doesn't get driven as much as it should, so he hopes the next owner will exercise it often.