Conceived to challenge Chevrolet's Corvette sports car, the classic Thunderbird convertible debuted in October 1954 for the 1955 model year and was one of the first models produced with Ford's new overhead-valve V8 engine. In '56 Thunderbird configuration, the latter displaced 292ci (4.8 liters) and produced 200bhp, while the optional Special V8 displaced 312ci (5.1 liters) and delivered 215bhp. Introduced in two-seat 'personal car' form, the Thunderbird was intended to appeal to image-conscious younger customers, beating the Corvette hands down in the sales war thanks to its superior V8 engine and greater refinement. Its success took Ford by surprise: 16,000 were sold in the first year when a total of only 10,000 had been expected, and the production run over three years exceeded 53,000.

Despite its success, the original concept soon was abandoned and a larger - and slower - four-seat version introduced for 1958, a move that turned the early two-seater cars into collectors' items almost overnight. Today the 1955-'57 Thunderbirds are among the most desirable and sought after of post-war American automobiles.

This Goldenrod Yellow was acquired by the vendor in 1968. Unrestored, but mechanically well kept, the T-Bird has recently received a mechanical restoration that included work on the drivetrain, suspension, steering, instrument gauges, brakes, and tires. Invoices total almost $11,000 and it is reported that the car runs and drives very well. Equipped with a correct, porthole-free hardtop, this T-Bird is ready to cruise!