1956 Ford Thunderbird Convertible 3 speed manual

The Thunderbird was Ford's response to General Motors and their Chevrolet Corvette. When introduced in 1955 it outsold the more expensive Corvette by 24:1 as a direct result of its clean styling, creature comforts and V8 refinement. Now rightly becoming recognised as a "blue oval icon" the model now features in many serious and noted collections.

This particular car was built in 1956 with the 312 cubic inch engine connected to a 3 speed manual gearbox with power brakes and power steering. It was totally restored in a 'frame-off' restoration carried out by Stefano Landi in Italy about 4 years ago. It has covered just 4,000 miles since then. There is a comprehensive photographic record of this restoration with evidence to support the full engine and transmission rebuild, which included new pistons and valves etc.

Additionally the brakes, electrics and wiring, battery, chrome, lights and carpets were either replaced or reconditioned. The body was stripped, restored and freshly repainted along with new upholstery, seats, wheels and tyres, the white soft top was replaced, the suspension rebuilt with new dampers, a new fuel tank was fitted along with a full exhaust system and new radiator and cooling system.

The car was painstakingly restored to the original specification in order to preserve the originality of the car and therefore all parts have been replaced, re-chromed or painted to the original factory specification.

The car also attained an A.S.I. certificate gold plate (awarded by the Italian Historic Car Association) after completion. Now ready to be enjoyed this summer, the car offers a great deal of fun and it has promising potential for long term investment for the future.