Thunderbird Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What is considered a "Classic" Thunderbird?

 A:

The term "Classic" usually refers to the original Ford Thunderbirds that were two-seater sports cars. 

Q:  Which years were the original two-seater Thunderbirds?

 A:

The first Thunderbirds (called Early Birds) were produced from 1955-1957. 

Q:  How many cars were produced each year?

 A:

1955 - 16,155
1956 - 15,631
1957 - 21,380

Q:  How can you tell the three years apart?

 A:

This is very easy. Although the three years were similar, each year had it's own distinct features that make identification simple.

1955

1. Crossed flags appear with the Ford crest above the grill and in the rear on the fuel filler lid.
2. The exhaust pipes come through the rear panel in two large round "bumperettes:.

1956

1. Crossed flags and crest above the grill were changed to the bird emblem.
2. The addition of the rear mounted spare wheel (continental kit) which added much needed trunk space.
3. Wind wings (small swing out glass window panels) which reduced the draft in the passenger compartment.
4. Cowel vent doors (air vents) placed in the front fenders that when opened, funneled the outside air into the passenger compartment.

1957

1. The spare tire was moved back inside the trunk and the rear deck was raised to allow the tire to stand up, and extended for more space.
2. Massive front and rear bumpers.
3. Flared rear quarter fins.

Q:  What other changes occurred between the first model and the others?

 A:

1955

1. A 6 volt positive ground electrical system.
2. 292 hp V8 engine.

1956

1. A 12 volt electrical system.
2. Sun visors.
3. 312 hp V8 engine.

1957

1. New dashboard and interior.
2. Turn signals were incorporated into the front bumper.
3. Two new engine options:
• A supercharged version of the 312.
• A duel 4 bbl. carb. setup.

Q:  What type of transmissions did the Thunderbirds have?

A:

1. A three speed manual.
2. A three speed manual with electrical overdrive.
3. Automatic. In 1955 and early 1956 the automatic were air cooled. Mid year in 1956 they were changed to incorporate oil cooling through the radiator.

Q:  Did the Thunderbirds have any unusual features or options?

A:

Options were confined to the usual power steering, power brakes, power windows, and seats. Engine options, transmission options, your choice of soft top and or hard top and in 1956  and 1957 you could choose between the porthole of plain hard top at no cost difference. A tonneau cover could be added to the combination, or in lieu of any top at all. In 1957 the volumatic radio was a tube type AM radio that automatically increased volume as the engine RPM increased. Also, in 1957 the Dial-a-Matic seat could be ordered and you could choose between several up/down or forward/back positions. When the ignition was turned off the seat would automatically go all the way back and down to ease entry and exit from the car. When the car was started, the seat would take its pre selected position.