Ford first introduced the convertible Thunderbird in 1955 and continued the two-seater body style thru 1957. Its original sales triumphed over the Chevy Corvette was the result of clean styling, creature comforts, and V8 refinement. The sales volume didn't impress Ford conservative management and a four seater replacement was in the works for 1958. The engine is a 292 cubic-inch overhead valve V8 with a bore of 3.75x3.30 and developed 193 horsepower. Price new ranged from $2944 to $3408. The total number of these automobiles produced in 1956 was 15,600.