198 bhp, 292 cu. in. overhead valve V8 engine, single four-barrel carburetor, three-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live axle rear suspension with leaf springs and four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 102"
When Ford officials first saw the new Corvette at the January 1953 Motorama, Ford's own sports car project quickly became a top priority. A look at the design brief is interesting -- it had to look like a Ford, be an open two-seater with a canvas top, maximize the use of production parts, and have a top speed of over 100 miles per hour.
Unlike the Corvette, Ford placed greater emphasis on "personal" than "sports", and when finally released, the Thunderbird was equipped with glass roll-up windows, a removable hard-top and options including power brakes, steering, seats and windows. As well, the Thunderbird had a stout V8 under the hood, as opposed to the Corvette's six-cylinder engine, as an added bonus.
The charismatic 1955 Ford Thunderbird presented here is a rust-free Florida car with approximately 65,500 miles from new. The classic lines display a glossy black finish, accented by a black hard top and reproduction B.F. Goodrich Silvertown tires, mounting steel wheels with full chrome wheel covers. As well, the headlights are crowned by a set of Mercury trim rings, while the original items are included with the car. It should also be noted that this car includes its correct convertible top mechanism and bows; however, a cloth top is not currently fitted.
The eye-catching interior is trimmed in black and white leather upholstery with new-appearing black carpeting, along with attractive engine-turned dash and door panel inserts. The Thunderbird also includes a power-operated seat, as well as a radio, a heater, and a clock. The trunk area is also impressively detailed, and contains like new carpeting, a spare tire, and a detailed jack with original-style jacking instructions affixed to the underside of the trunk lid.
The engine bay contains a 292 cubic inch V8 engine in 198 horsepower tune, topped with an optional dress-up kit. This engine, combined with the optional three-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission, provides effortless cruising. In addition, the engine and bay are period correct in presentation, with the exception of a modern battery, hoses and clamps. For improved reliability, the electrical system has been upgraded to a 12-volt system. Accompanying the Thunderbird in the sale is a car cover and a selection of spare parts.
Handsomely presented, this iconic 1955 Thunderbird is a fine representative of Ford's successful interpretation of the two-seat personal sports car concept, and is sure to please its next owner.
When Ford officials first saw the new Corvette at the January 1953 Motorama, Ford's own sports car project quickly became a top priority. A look at the design brief is interesting -- it had to look like a Ford, be an open two-seater with a canvas top, maximize the use of production parts, and have a top speed of over 100 miles per hour.
Unlike the Corvette, Ford placed greater emphasis on "personal" than "sports", and when finally released, the Thunderbird was equipped with glass roll-up windows, a removable hard-top and options including power brakes, steering, seats and windows. As well, the Thunderbird had a stout V8 under the hood, as opposed to the Corvette's six-cylinder engine, as an added bonus.
The charismatic 1955 Ford Thunderbird presented here is a rust-free Florida car with approximately 65,500 miles from new. The classic lines display a glossy black finish, accented by a black hard top and reproduction B.F. Goodrich Silvertown tires, mounting steel wheels with full chrome wheel covers. As well, the headlights are crowned by a set of Mercury trim rings, while the original items are included with the car. It should also be noted that this car includes its correct convertible top mechanism and bows; however, a cloth top is not currently fitted.
The eye-catching interior is trimmed in black and white leather upholstery with new-appearing black carpeting, along with attractive engine-turned dash and door panel inserts. The Thunderbird also includes a power-operated seat, as well as a radio, a heater, and a clock. The trunk area is also impressively detailed, and contains like new carpeting, a spare tire, and a detailed jack with original-style jacking instructions affixed to the underside of the trunk lid.
The engine bay contains a 292 cubic inch V8 engine in 198 horsepower tune, topped with an optional dress-up kit. This engine, combined with the optional three-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission, provides effortless cruising. In addition, the engine and bay are period correct in presentation, with the exception of a modern battery, hoses and clamps. For improved reliability, the electrical system has been upgraded to a 12-volt system. Accompanying the Thunderbird in the sale is a car cover and a selection of spare parts.
Handsomely presented, this iconic 1955 Thunderbird is a fine representative of Ford's successful interpretation of the two-seat personal sports car concept, and is sure to please its next owner.
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Auction details
RM - Vintage Motor Cars of Meadow Brook
8:00 AM PT - Aug 2nd, 2008
offered by
RM Auctions
5 West Forest Ave
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
