1955 Ford Thunderbird

Introduced for the 1955 model year as Ford's answer to the Chevrolet Corvette, the Thunderbird established a new segment of American motoring, combining elegant roadster styling and V8 performance with the comfort and refinement of a personal luxury car. Powered by a 292ci Y-block V8 engine paired with a 3-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission, this first-year Thunderbird is finished in its original Raven Black over Red leather color combination and features desirable equipment including power steering, power windows, a power-adjustable seat, air conditioning, and a removable hardtop. Having undergone a comprehensive frame-off restoration in California around 2010, this example is reported to remain in exceptional condition throughout, with fewer than 4k miles driven since its completion. Previously acquired at a Barrett-Jackson auction by a former owner, this Thunderbird has remained under the care of its current owner since 2013, during which time it has been sparingly driven, carefully maintained, and stored in a climate-controlled facility. This beautifully restored 1955 Ford Thunderbird is now being offered for auction in Wisconsin

The exterior is finished in classic Raven Black, faithfully replicating the car's original factory color as part of its comprehensive frame-off restoration. The first-generation Thunderbird's distinctive styling is characterized by its long hood, sweeping front fenders, prominent chrome grille, rounded headlight bezels, and signature rear fender skirts. Additional details include chrome bumpers and trim, a hood scoop, dual exhaust outlets, and steel wheels fitted with polished hubcaps and Coker Classic wide whitewall tires. A body-colored removable hardtop is included, allowing the car to be enjoyed in either open-air or enclosed configurations. The seller reports that the restoration included extensive attention to the bodywork, paint, and undercarriage, with no apparent evidence of previous collision damage or body repairs. Having reportedly never been driven in the rain during the current ownership and consistently stored indoors, the Thunderbird is said to remain in outstanding cosmetic condition throughout.