When GIs who fought in the European Theater of World War II returned home, they brought with them fond memories of the British two-seaters that were a common sight over there. Some even managed to buy some and have them shipped home. It was clear to Detroit that there just might be a market for an American made version of the famed two-seater open car. The two most famous of these were the MG-TC (and the later TD) and the incredibly handsome Jaguar XK-120. Kaiser introduced the famed Kaiser-Darrin in the early 50s and Chevrolet would follow next with the legendary Corvette. Ford was not blind to Chevrolets new car, but chose to develop a car along a different path. It was decided their car would be made of metal instead of fiberglass; that it would be powered by a V-8 engine unlike the Corvettes Blue Flame Six; and that it would feature roll-down windows and an optional hardtop unlike the Corvettes snap on curtains. They further decided that it would, as much as possible, utilize the same tooling and parts interchangeability with the big Fords of that era. This Magnificent Classic is finished in Prized Thunderbird Peacock Blue (Turquoise) with Contrasting Turquoise and White Interior, and White Port Hole Hardtop and White Soft Top. Restoration included Exterior, Interior Top, Brightwork, and Mechanics. It comes with a comprehensive complement of amenities including: Ford Automatic Transmission Floor mounted Locking Button Shift Selector Low and Drive Range Master Guide Power Steering Telescopic Lifeguard Steering Wheel Fully Adjustable Full instrumentation including Domed Speedometer Factory Tachometer Directional Signals Magicaire Heating and Defrost System Thunderbird AM-FM-Cassette Sound System Original radio in trunk Electric Clock Cigar Lighter (Unused) White Port Hole Hardtop New White Soft Top and Rear Window Chrome Side View Mirror Wing Windows Rear Fender Skirts with Fender Shields Wide Whitewall Radial Tires Windshield Washers Beautiful Ford Scripted Hubcaps (5) THUNDERBIRD V-8 Engine Chrome Engine Dress Up Kitt 312 Cubic Inch Displacement 225 Horsepower 9:1 Compression Ratio 3.80 X 3.44 Inch Bore & Stroke Four Barrel Carburetion Dual Stainless Steel Exhaust System with Through Rear Bumper Ports Optima Battery Battery Cut off Switch Show Quality Engine Compartment Electric Fuel Pump Improved Starting and Vapor Lock Protection 12 Volt Electrical System Significant Improved Reliability & Improved Lighting for Evening Tours Aluminium Radiator, 6 Blade Fan Significantly Improved Cooling Full " Flow Oil Filter Beautiful Rear Continental Kit Trunk Jack Side Opening Fresh Air Vents 102 Inch Wheelbase 185 Inch Length Highly Detailed Engine Compartment Numbers Matching Owners Manual Shop Manual Hardtop Stand Car Cover This Magnificent Thunderbird in Prized Thunderbird Peacock Blue with Stunning Turquoise and White Interior is an Absolute Pleasure to Drive and garners all the oohs and aahs anytime out. In 1955, TBird owners voiced concerns re: inadequate trunk space to accommodate golf clubs. In 56, Ford decided to move the spare tire to the exterior Continental Kit allowing for Golf Clubs! Many Baby Bird aficionados consider the 56 with the Rear Continental Kit to be the Most Beautiful and Most Desirable of the Series. The 56s were the Only Car in America that came with the Rear Continental Wheel as standard fare. It is Excellent Throughout. Ask $64,950.
