1955 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

This 1955 Ford Thunderbird was offered for sale at the 2007 RM Auctions held at Meadow Brook where it was estimated to sell for $50,000 - $60,000. This car is powered by a V8 engine that displaces 272 cubic-inches and capable of producing over 180 horsepower. There is an automatic gearbox and disc brakes in the front and drums in the rear. The odometer reads 43,000 actual miles and was the recipient of a total rotisserie style restoration to concours standards. It has earned AACA Senior and Grand National First Place awards. It has both a hard and soft tops, power steering, power driver's seat, back-up lights, engine dress-up kit, and wire basket wheel covers. This car is finished in its original factory color of Torch Red. The interior is white and in excellent condition.

In 1954 at the Detroit Auto Show, the world was introduced to the Thunderbird. Over 5000 names had been considered for the new Ford project in 1954, but it was Alden 'Gib' Biberson's entry that would persist. For his entry he received a $95 suit and an extra pair of pants from Saks Fifth Avenue. The car was designed by William P. Boyer under the direction of Franklin Q. Hershey and began in early September of 1954.

The car is a successful marriage of luxury and performance. It is a refined sports car that is elegant, fun to drive, and an American icon.

At auction the car was sold for $49,500 including buyers premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2007