Ford’s hugely successful Thunderbird was given a few subtle changes for 1956, which was its second season in production. The spare tire was relocated from the trunk to a “Continental” mounting on the rear bumper. Wind wings were added to the trailing edge of the windshield, cowl vents were added to the front fenders, and the hardtop gained porthole windows in the rear quarters. The rear bumper was redesigned to simplify the exhaust outlets, with them being moved to the outer corners. A 215-brake horsepower, 312-cubic inch Thunderbird Special V-8 was available and rated at 225 brake horsepower with Ford-O-Matic Drive.

This Thunderbird was delivered through dealer Ralph Ellsworth in Garden City, Michigan, and is equipped with the 225-brake horsepower engine, power steering, power brakes, a Town & Country signal-seeking radio, a heater, a clock, windshield washers, and the removable porthole hardtop that was an alternative to the folding convertible roof, which the car is also equipped with today. The car was originally delivered wearing Colonial White over a Black and white interior, but it is currently wearing Torch Red and has red and white vinyl upholstery in the correct pattern. It has been the recipient of a full restoration and has excellent contours. The paint and brightwork are also in very good condition.

The tail pipes have been re-routed straight back to avoid soiling the bumpers, which was a problem with the original system. Correct-width Coker Classic whitewall tires nicely complement the faux wire wheel covers. This car is spic and span from top to bottom and one of the nicest ’56 T-Birds you’ll find.