The Thunderbird, or “T-Bird,” is an automobile manufactured by the Ford Motor Company in the United States over eleven model generations from 1955 through 2005. When introduced, it created the market niche eventually known as the personal luxury car. The Ford Thunderbird began life in February 1953 in direct response to Chevrolet's new sports car, the Corvette, which was publicly unveiled in prototype form just a month before. Under rapid development, the Thunderbird went from idea to prototype in about a year, being unveiled to the public at the Detroit Auto Show on February 20, 1954. Like the Corvette, the Thunderbird had a two-seat coupe/convertible layout. Production of the Thunderbird began later on in 1954 on September 9 with the car beginning sales as a 1955 model on October 22, 1954. Though sharing some design characteristics with other Fords of the time, such as single, circular headlamps and tail lamps and modest tailfins, the Thunderbird was sleeker and more athletic in shape, and had features like a faux hood scoop and a 150 mph speedometer hinting a higher performance nature that other Fords didn't possess. Mechanically though, the Thunderbird could trace its roots to other mainstream Fords. The Thunderbird's 102.0 inches wheelbase frame was mostly a shortened version of that used in other Fords while the car's standard 292 cu in (4.8 L) Y-block V8 came from Ford's Mercury division. MotoeXotica Classic Cars is pleased to present the iconic 1955 Ford Thunderbird you see pictured. This particular T-Bird, complete with a factory hardtop convertible and many recent upgrades, is an older restoration that has been regularly maintained and is ready to hit the open road! The current owner states that while this classic is not “show car perfect,” it is very presentable and perfect for a cruiser that you can drive and park anywhere! Finished in the original color of Snowshoe White, the paint was refinished approximately 10 years ago and is in great condition, only showing minor imperfections such as small rock chips. The factory hard top is also in great condition. The chrome is in great shape as well, only showing minor imperfections. This 50s icon is sure to turn heads no matter where you take it! Inside, the interior is finished in the original color combination of white and red vinyl. The interior was also reupholstered approximately 10 years ago when the car was also repainted. The seats are in great condition, showing no signs of wear or tear. The red carpet looks great, as do the door panels and headliner. The dashboard is painted black and houses original style gauges. There is textured metal inlay on both the dash and door panels, which looks great and perfectly accents the colors of the interior. This car is equipped with power windows and locks. There is a brand new, yet vintage looking, digital radio installed into the dashboard which looks great. Under the hood, you’ll find the recently tuned up 292 cubic inch V8 powerhouse, complete with a Pertronix ignition system, rebuilt carburetor, rebuilt fuel system, brand new wiring harness, new radiator, hoses & thermostat. Attached to the engine is a manual transmission. The car sits upon a set of 15” red steel wheels with Ford hubcaps, which look excellent! The wheels are wrapped in brand new P205/75R15 white wall tires. The suspension and brake systems were completely rebuilt. The brakes have all new shoes, drums, lines and hardware kits. The suspension includes new shocks, new springs and all new bushings. The car has recently been aligned as well. This Thunderbird is a true classic and icon of the 50s era! It would be an excellent addition to any classic car collection or would make a fabulous Sunday driver. The VIN is P5FH190604 and the mileage currently shows 3,742. It is being sold on a clean and clear, mileage exempt title. GET OUT AND DRIVE!!!
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