It's about as pivotal a part of American automotive lore as the highway itself and still features its original colors both inside and out. This 1955 Ford Thunderbird is a true classic among classics - it represents the very first year of the very first generation of the model. It's running and driving great and presents the opportunity to own a coveted ride that's ready to roll just as soon as you get it home. Its... Torch red exterior represents one of the signature color choices for its era and is the same shade it left the factory with more than 60 years ago. The paint still presents well - rest assured that the head turning prowess of this vintage drop top has not ebbed in the least and it cuts quite an appearance just as it is, but a skillful freshening of the color is a definite option for the prospective owner inclined toward bringing out its absolute best. There are a lot of great visual details to behold - the front bumper features dual bullet ornamentation and sits below a distinctive front grille, while a tasteful factory scoop rises from the hood. If you swing around to the side, you'll notice the fender skirts that add yet another bit of eye candy. The chrome on all four sides presents well - both the front and rear bumpers look very fresh and the signature fender scoops are well-represented here. During those times when the skies darken, there's both a white vinyl convertible top and a matching red accessory hard top on hand for protection. The interior sports its original red and white color scheme and its charm is undeniable. The two tone bench seat at its center appears to be in very solid shape, with plenty of life left in it - it's an inspired and very comfortable vantage point from which to navigate this venerable Ford. Even better, the power adjustment still works just as intended to move the seat into the perfect position. The door panels on both sides still look sharp, as does the carpeting below. The factory-issue Thunderbird steering wheel still sits on its column, while just beyond it the dash area is another definite visual draw. Its textured aluminum accents look particularly sharp and the gauges in the cluster are very clear and easily readable, although the factory clock and tach will need a bit of attention to get them back online. A tap on the horn will be plenty to let those around you know of your presence - it's entertainingly loud. The trunk area in back looks solid, with a full-size factory spare securely mounted inside and fresh vinyl lining the floor. The stock-looking engine compartment has been well looked after and features a period-correct 292 cubic inch V8 at its center, carrying a 4-barrel carb that sits under a fetching chrome air cleaner on top and a pair of sharp looking Thunderbird-branded valve covers on its sides. This very road-ready powerplant teams with a 3-speed manual transmission that's shifting very smoothly and features an overdrive gear to keep revs down at highway speeds. This T-Bird provides a very pleasant driving experience and a number of components have been replaced fairly recently to up its dependability factor, including the carburetor, fuel pump, distributor and brake pads. The view from below is reassuring - the undercarriage shows the patina you'd expect after all these years but appears very solid, and you can see the bracing Ford employed to maximize the body rigidity of this open-air classic. An important part of automotive history, it cruises on a set of 15" stock wheels with chrome hubcaps that carry vintage looking white wall tires. This 1955 Ford Thunderbird offers the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a smooth driving piece of American automotive history at a good price. Call today!
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