Lot 145 - 1955 Ford Thunderbird Convertible
| Lot Number | 145 |
| Registration | 442 UYL |
| Chassis Number | P5FH201109 |
| Engine Number | N/A |
| Odometer reading | 56,401 miles |
| Result | Sold - £46,412 |
Detroit took tentative steps into the rising sports car market in the early 1950’s but it took Ford to demonstrate that a domestic production sports car, rather than being noisy, drafty and saddled with mundane power, could also satisfy more traditional buyers who wanted such common American automotive amenities as side windows, heaters and big-car styling. They did it with the all-new 1955 Thunderbird. The new T-Bird had it all: a stylish, low-slung body, a rumbling 292/198 HP Y-Block, V-8 engine, luxurious accommodation and an optional equipment list that included power assists, a removable hard top that offered more weather protection than the side curtains and fold down tops used in most other sports cars and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. The Thunderbird was essentially a downsized luxury car, but its bright demeanour and powerful engine made it immediately popular with the sports car set and its first year sales total of 16,155 cars was a pleasant surprise to Fords top brass. This prototypical 1955 Ford Thunderbird personifies all the charms that first established the model's popularity.
Originally sourced at the now famous Pebble Beach auctions in 2014 and imported to the UK in 2015, this great-looking example has undergone a full, frame-off restoration and is professionally finished in Waterfall Blue. It sports a new and correct blue and white interior with the factory radio and offers the choice of both a white soft top and matching hard top. Firestone wide white-wall tyres and optional wire wheel hubcaps were popular period choices for this car which is powered by the formentioned 292 c.i. Thunderbird V-8 mated to a three-speed manual transmission with optional overdrive. The highly detailed engine compartment and chassis are great finishing touches to this classic piece of fifties Americana. This excellent T-Bird is supplied with a V5C registration document and copies of the American title. Thunderbirds are hard to find in such excellent condition and with the added options making this a relaxing drive, there are very few driving experiences that can compete.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.