1955 Ford Thunderbird Roadster
The first generation Thunderbird, the ‘little birds’, were built from 1955 to 1957. Ford didn’t consider the Thunderbird a sports car, but rather, a 'personal luxury vehicle’, even tho they had a V8 engine and sporty lines. Emphasis was put on comfort and convenience of the car.
The ‘T bird’ came with a removable fiberglass top, (a fabric convertible top was an option), featured single round headlamps, modest tail fins, hood scoop, pleated vinyl upholstery and electric seats.
Unique to 1955 was the Ford crest and crossed flag emblem above the grille, 6 volt electrical system and the 1955 model did not have vent windows or front fender vents.
The closest competitor was Chevrolets Corvette, with similar 2 seater Roadster styling, it was in its third year of production. In 1955, the Thunderbird outsold the Corvette more than 23 to 1.
Engine; 193hp 292 cu in Y block V8.
1955 Ford Thunderbird Roadster
The first generation Thunderbird, the ‘little birds’, were built from 1955 to 1957. Ford didn’t consider the Thunderbird a sports car, but rather, a 'personal luxury vehicle’, even tho they had a V8 engine and sporty lines. Emphasis was put on comfort and convenience of the car.
The ‘T bird’ came with a removable fiberglass top, (a fabric convertible top was an option), featured single round headlamps, modest tail fins, hood scoop, pleated vinyl upholstery and electric seats.
Unique to 1955 was the Ford crest and crossed flag emblem above the grille, 6 volt electrical system and the 1955 model did not have vent windows or front fender vents.
The closest competitor was Chevrolets Corvette, with similar 2 seater Roadster styling, it was in its third year of production. In 1955, the Thunderbird outsold the Corvette more than 23 to 1.
Engine; 193hp 292 cu in Y block V8.