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. 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 greater refinement. Its success took Ford by surprise: 16,000 were sold in the first year when projected sales were only 10,000 units, 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

The first-year example offered here is finished in red with attractive two-tone red and white upholstery, while an aftermarket three-spoke steering wheel offers a sporting feel. Offered on a California Certificate of Title.