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Details
1956 FORD THUNDERBIRD V8 CONVERTIBLE WITH REMOVABLE HARDTOP
Registration No. Not UK Registered
Serial No. P 6 FH 245 957
Engine No. 72054
Pink with grey interior
Engine: V8, overhead valve, 272ci., 176bhp at 4,400rpm; Gearbox: Ford-O-Matic three-speed; Suspension: independent front, solid rear axle; Brakes: hydraulic servo-assisted drums. Left hand drive.
The classic Thunderbird was introduced in 1955 and was Ford's response to the Chevrolet Corvette. Although it had the same wheelbase (102in.) as its rival, the Thunderbird was designed to be more practical and luxurious than GM's Corvette. Ford knew that the two-seater V8 was going to attract a wider audience than the Corvette's racing/performance oriented market. The Thunderbird design incorporated Ford features found on other models to create a product recognition with the hope of encouraging sales of other Ford cars as well. The universal appeal of the styling made the Thunderbird an instant success and the 1955 model out-sold the more expensive Corvette by 24 to 1! With European style and American comfort, convenience and go, it was no wonder the Thunderbird proved to be irresistible.
For 1956 the Thunderbird featured a rear mounted Continental tyre kit as standard equipment and in order to reach the fuel filler this had to be tilted. Other identifying features were a small rectangular air vent mounted just ahead of the door, a recessed steering wheel and a hood medallion with wings. Also during this year the hardtop became available with a porthole as a no extra cost option.
At the time of going to press very little history is known about this Thunderbird, however its condition can almost speak for itself as it has clearly been the subject of a comprehensive restoration. The result of this work is very good, and bearing just 22 miles on the clock since its completion, the restoration remains as finished. The paintwork, right down to the chassis is in very good order, save for a customary scratch to the spare wheel cover caused by careless opening. It is offered complete with jack and its period hard top.
Christie's have not started or run the Thunderbird, and so advise careful re-commissioning prior to road use. Once on the road, the car must surely have potential at concours level.
Registration No. Not UK Registered
Serial No. P 6 FH 245 957
Engine No. 72054
Pink with grey interior
Engine: V8, overhead valve, 272ci., 176bhp at 4,400rpm; Gearbox: Ford-O-Matic three-speed; Suspension: independent front, solid rear axle; Brakes: hydraulic servo-assisted drums. Left hand drive.
The classic Thunderbird was introduced in 1955 and was Ford's response to the Chevrolet Corvette. Although it had the same wheelbase (102in.) as its rival, the Thunderbird was designed to be more practical and luxurious than GM's Corvette. Ford knew that the two-seater V8 was going to attract a wider audience than the Corvette's racing/performance oriented market. The Thunderbird design incorporated Ford features found on other models to create a product recognition with the hope of encouraging sales of other Ford cars as well. The universal appeal of the styling made the Thunderbird an instant success and the 1955 model out-sold the more expensive Corvette by 24 to 1! With European style and American comfort, convenience and go, it was no wonder the Thunderbird proved to be irresistible.
For 1956 the Thunderbird featured a rear mounted Continental tyre kit as standard equipment and in order to reach the fuel filler this had to be tilted. Other identifying features were a small rectangular air vent mounted just ahead of the door, a recessed steering wheel and a hood medallion with wings. Also during this year the hardtop became available with a porthole as a no extra cost option.
At the time of going to press very little history is known about this Thunderbird, however its condition can almost speak for itself as it has clearly been the subject of a comprehensive restoration. The result of this work is very good, and bearing just 22 miles on the clock since its completion, the restoration remains as finished. The paintwork, right down to the chassis is in very good order, save for a customary scratch to the spare wheel cover caused by careless opening. It is offered complete with jack and its period hard top.
Christie's have not started or run the Thunderbird, and so advise careful re-commissioning prior to road use. Once on the road, the car must surely have potential at concours level.
Special notice
VAT rate of 5% is payable on hammer price plus buyer's premium