In the second year of production, Ford saw its Thunderbird as the boon it was and decided not to fuss with it too much. Changes from the inaugural season were minor and largely reflected trim alterations—a winged badge on the nose and new taillights—as well as a few more major modifications, all to suit buyer demand.

Ford had learned from the competing Chevrolet Corvette’s early struggles that more power equated to more sales, so newly optional was a 312-cubic-inch V-8 with either a manual or Ford-O-Matic transmission. “Portholes” were now available in the optional hardtop to improve visibility, and new front fender vents kept the interior cooler. Most prominently, the spare tire moved out of the trunk to an external “continental kit” carrier for improved luggage space. Buyers responded with brio, buying 15,631 Thunderbirds for the 1956 model year, some 5,000 more than 1955.

The Thunderbird offered here was built in a classic livery of Colonial White over a two-tone red and white interior and optioned with the Ford-O-Matic transmission, Town and Country radio, and both soft-top and “porthole” removable hardtop. Its history traces back to 1988, when Frank and Donna Deaver of Beaverton, Oregon, owned it. The car was sold that year to Robert S. Jepson Jr. of Barrington, Illinois, who then sold it in the early 2000s to Warren T. and Diane Wamberg of North Barrington, all as documented by registration copies on file. The present owner acquired it from the Wambergs several years ago.

Upkept to an excellent standard, it was refurbished in April 2026, including installing a new convertible top and carpet, and fitting a Bluetooth audio system, amplifier, and speakers concealed beneath the dashboard, with the original radio remaining intact in its factory location. An invoice for this work is included in the file. The owner notes that some of the interior is still original, a testament to the car’s care over the years.

A “Little Bird” is always one of the most popular vehicles at any show and cruise night, and this well-prepared, nicely finished example is sure to win new fans whenever its next owner takes it out on the road.