1956 FORD THUNDERBIRD
Designer: William P. Boyer

Estimate: $57,000 ­- $70,000

Chassis Number: P6FH234314
Decoded: P=312 cid V8 engine; 6=1956 model year; F=Dearborn, MI assembly plant;
H=Thunderbird convertible; 234314=134,314th 1956 Ford scheduled for assembly at Dearborn
Engine: 312 cid OHV “Y­-block” V8
4-­barrel Carburetor / 225 bhp
3­-Speed Merc­O­Matic Automatic Transmission
Power Assisted Four Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Mileage: 7,515

The Model: For the second year of these legendary two-­seaters, there were a number of improvements that made for a much better “personal luxury sports car”. Starting with the electrics, moving to 12­volts was a great start. A major complaint in the first season was the build­up of heat in the passenger compartment, which was remedied by the addition of side ventilation ports. Providing more room in the compact trunk, the spare tire was relocated to a rear mount “Continental Kit”. Sure, the T­-bird was impractical, but sales were up over the first year and with a bigger, more powerful V8 now available, more of those little Fords started to show up at competition events across the land. While the majority of Ford buyers couldn’t fit a T­Bird into their budget, that was the car they came to see when buying the family sedan or station wagon.

The Car: Restored a number of years ago, today this car stands ready to hit the road and provide our new owner with a part of motoring history. During its rebuild it was given a complete color change from Raven Black to Colonial White. The interior looks like it did when new, finished in its original scheme of red and white vinyl with plenty of extras. In addition to many of the usual items such as Signal Seeking radio, clock and tachometer, this T­bird has power steering and brakes plus power windows and four­way power seats. Under the hood is quite in order though some detailing would be recommended. The chrome trim has held up very well and looks like new as does the other bright trim. Fitted with its original “porthole” hardtop and the simulated wire ­wheel covers, it all combines to help paint the picture of the perfect cruiser from the 1950’s.