Thunderbird: 1955 – 1957 “Classic Birds” or “Little Birds”
The Thunderbird was first displayed in 1954, causing a pretty exciting buzz amongst the Auto Show guests at the time. The T-bird, designed to be an option to the then very popular Chevrolet Corvette, was an instant hit, selling over 6,000 more models than Ford’s production anticipation.
The Classic Bird offered a much needed breath of fresh air to the design concepts of the 1950’s models. Most of the models during this era were large clunky beasts. This charming 2-seater designed primarily for cruising became a very popular brand.
The 1955 model included a convertible top of fabric or a removable fiberglass option, an emasculating V8, overdrive transmission and a spacious 2 seat front seat.
In 1956, after listening to feedback from consumers, Ford decided to add more trunk space to the otherwise small trunk. They also included a spare wheel which was sorely missed from the 1955 version. To improve air ventilation additional air vents were added. In an effort to increase visibility additional windows were added to the rear. For those that were interested in a bigger engine Ford offered a 312 model instead of the default 292 model that came standard.
After their inaugural year, the Classic Birds received lower than expected sales for their sophomore encore. Of the three initial years that the Thunderbird was introduced the 1956 model sold the least amount. Despite having a lower showing, sales were still strong and supportive of a continued effort.
In 1957, in an effort to regain their initial sales performance, The Thunderbird underwent a radical redesign. The tailfins were enlarged, along with the tail lights. The grille was reshaped along with the front bumper. This gave the Thunderbird a decidedly sportier look to it. As additional performance options Ford also decided to offer 340 hp versions of the 312.
Consumers took to the newly redesigned and increased horsepower Thunderbird. 1957 was easily their best sales year of the first 3 years. This model Thunderbird sold over 21,000 models. 1957 was the last year that Thunderbird offered the 2 seat model until a 1982 model revived it.
Overall, Ford’s efforts for the first couple of years were valiant. They managed to carve their own automobile class of the Personal Luxury Automobile. The Thunderbird, had exceeded most sales expectations overall.
Now considered to be classics these vintage Thunderbirds are rare and very difficult to find in pristine conditions. Production of these three models can be placed at less than 60,000 models total. In 1955 the production was 16,500, followed by another roughly 16,000 production year and capped off with a 21,000 production.
Trying to find any one of these models, especially in the more powerful luxury models would be difficult at best.
