1955 Ford Thunderbird

OVERVIEW

This 1955 Ford Thunderbird was fitted with $16,000 in new exterior, interior, and mechanical parts during a frame-on, engine-out restoration completed in 2021. It is powered by a rebuilt 292cid V8 backed by a rebuilt two-speed automatic transmission. Features include a vintage-style AM/FM radio, manual steering, manual brakes, and rear bumper-exit exhaust outlets. Finished in Torch Red and equipped with a matching removable hardtop over a red and white vinyl interior, this Thunderbird comes with restoration invoices, a hardtop cart, and a clear title in the seller's name.

EXTERIOR – FEATURES

This Thunderbird came from the factory in Raven Black (code A) and is not equipped with a soft top.  During the restoration process, the exterior was finished in Torch Red and the following parts were replaced:

• Bumpers
• Bumper guards
• Chrome trim
• Hardtop lock-down latches
• Chrome exhaust tips
• Windshield and windshield weatherstrip molding
• Body emblems
• Antenna
• Gas door
• Rear deck hardtop receptacles
• Rear deck stainless trim

EXTERIOR - WHEELS AND TIRES

A set of 15-inch red steel wheels with newer full hubcaps is wrapped in newer Coker Classic whitewall tires.

INTERIOR – FEATURES

Originally covered in black and white vinyl (trim code A), the bench seat was reupholstered in red vinyl with white inserts as part of the restoration. In addition, the following new components were installed during the process:

• Seat belts
• Carpeting
• Floor mats
• Hardtop headliner
• Trunk liner
• Trunk separation board
• Door panels
• Door and window handles
• Chrome shifter box
• Steering wheel
• Glove box
• Front and rear kick panels

INTERIOR – GAUGES

A 150-mph speedometer, 5,000-rpm tachometer, clock, and gauges for the fuel level and coolant temperature are located ahead of the driver. The odometer reads 69,341 miles, which the seller reports to be accurate.

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

Power is provided by a rebuilt 292cid V8 equipped with an electric fan and backed by a rebuilt two-speed automatic transmission. The seller states that the engine and transmission have logged 1,000 miles since being reconstructed. An oil change and a coolant change were completed in March 2023. The engine received the following new hardware in the restoration process:

• Hoses
• Generator
• Exhaust system
• Intake manifold
• Carburetor
• Air cleaner

UNDERCARRIAGE

This Thunderbird was factory-equipped with an independent front suspension and a solid rear drive axle. Braking is provided by manual four-wheel drums. The front and rear shocks and the gas tank were replaced in the course of the restoration.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Restoration invoices and a hardtop cart will be included with the purchase of the car.