1956 Ford Thunderbird

Ford was looking for something to compete with the Chevrolet Corvette which started to show quickly as a popular segment but didn't want to pursue the sports car necessary but created a segment all of its own. With the clever marketing plan in place, Ford began the production of the Ford Thunderbird in 1955 as a Personal Car segment and although it was very much a sporty two-seater convertible just like the Corvette, it paid more attention to luxury and comfort more so than the competition. This model did not inherit its second row of seats until 1958 and from there it slowly but surely grew in size, generation after generation until 1977 when the larger cars lost their popularity in the market. The Thunderbird was one of the longest lasting nametags for Ford and started strong by selling 23 models for every one Corvette sold when it first hit the market. The only changes completed between its inception model to the 1956 was moving the spare tire to a continental-style rear bumper in order to make more room within the trunk.

GR Auto Gallery is pleased to present this 1956 Ford Thunderbird Convertible for your consideration. With time comes beauty and this fine example of the first years of the Thunderbird model shows very well and drives very well. With a wonderful exterior including the rare Navajo Grey exterior which was a frame-off completion around 7 years ago, the color is true to its era and with its bright chrome bumpers, wire hub caps matched with Coker radials and a beautiful color-matching continental package on the rear. This is a subtly beautiful example of that wonderful 50's era and with a newer Haartz cloth top added as well, it is clear there was no expense spared when this model was revitalized. With new shocks, new heavy duty radiator, rebuilt tachometers, rebuilt carburetor, Pertronix ignition and new battery, this vehicle stands as solid on the inside as it shows on the outside. The interior shows just as well and hosts a beautiful black and white vinyl material professionally done and in like-new condition. The AM/FM radio is similar to those you would find in the old Thunderbird catalogs and the dash is in great condition with all the nostalgia you could ask for. Included in the sale of this excellent example of 50's style is a fitted car cover to ensure this model stays as nice as the day you buy it, there is a spare steering wheel for this model and even a couple trophies the vehicle had won in Thunderbird Exclusive car shows recently! The looks, the style and all the right pieces make this a great addition to our collection that is sure to find its next home soon!

To see over 80 photos of this car, including under carriage please visit our website www.grautogallery.com