LOT 119

1956 Ford Thunderbird Chassis no. P6FH203922

Sold for US$22,400 inc. premium

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Lot 119

1956 Ford Thunderbird

Greenwich Concours d'Elegance Auction|2 June 2019, 11:00 EDT|Greenwich

1956 Ford Thunderbird
Chassis no. P6FH203922

312ci OHV V8 Engine
4-Barrel Carburetor
215bhp at 4,500rpm
Ford-O-Matic Automatic Transmission
Front Independent Suspension – Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Restored in 2011
*Attractive Color Scheme
*Equipped with many power amenities and hardtop
*Classic and Elegant V8 Powered Americana

THE FORD THUNDERBIRD

A low, sleek two-seater, the Thunderbird offered amenities not found in the competing Chevrolet Corvette, most particularly rollup windows, offering comfort and convenience options tailored to an affluent market. Ford's product planners hit the market dead center and over 16,000 Thunderbirds were assembled in the 1955 model year.

There were few alterations made for the '56 season, the most obvious being the relocation of the spare wheel to the outside of the trunk in 'Continental Kit' style, while a 312ci, 215bhp Thunderbird Special V8 was added to the engine options. A more thoroughgoing re-style for 1957 saw the adoption of a longer tail section featuring prominent fins. This alteration provided greater luggage space while enabling the spare wheel to be relocated in the boot, a move that would improve the handling. Despite its success, the original Thunderbird concept was soon abandoned and a larger - and slower - four-seat version was introduced for 1958, a move that turned the early two-seater cars into collectors' items almost overnight.

Today the original 1955-'57 Thunderbirds are among the most desirable and sought after of all post-war American automobiles, and are highly regarded by collectors for their unique design, abundant creature comforts and the performance of their Ford V-8 engines.

MOTORCAR OFFERED

Leaving the Dearborn, Michigan factory on January 17, 1956 destined for Salt Lake City, this early production '56 T-Bird appears to have originally been finished in Thunderbird Blue over Black and White vinyl. The early history of the car is yet unrecorded, but in 2011 it was the recipient of a frame-off restoration during which time it was finished in the current combination of Sunset Coral over white. An album of photos details the work completed during this restoration.

The current owner acquired the car two years ago. Since his joining his collection, the T-Bird has received new brakes and battery, a fluid change, and a recent tune-up. Reported to be a lovely driving machine, it is the perfect vehicle for the next Sunday jaunt or drive-in movie.

Saleroom notices

Please note, the title for this vehicle will be in transit.

Additional information

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