Description
Ford Thunderbird | 1955
Highlights:
– 4.7-litre V8 engine, petrol, automatic transmission
– First-generation Thunderbird, imported from Arizona, USA in 2011
– One private owner for the past 15 years, always registered with historic vehicle plates
– Appraisal dated August 2025 and import appraisal graded “très bon” available
– Includes five original Dunlop tyres, suitable for display purposes
The seller offers for sale this 1955 Ford Thunderbird, powered by a 4.7-litre V8 engine, paired with an automatic transmission. Finished in a striking period-correct red over a light interior, this cabriolet presents as a well-kept example of the first-generation Thunderbird. The seller purchased the car in 2011 directly from the inventory of a reputable dealer in the USA, where it had lived in the dry climate of Arizona, and imported it to Germany that same year. It has remained in the same private ownership for the past 15 years, driven sparingly but consistently and with great care. The car has always been registered with historic vehicle plates and has passed its TÜV inspection every two years, with necessary maintenance carried out professionally and documented. An appraisal dated August 12, 2025 accompanies the car, describing it as either original or professionally restored to an equivalent condition, with no parts missing and no additional parts fitted, and awarding it Grade 2. An import appraisal with the grade “très bon” is also available. As a special extra, the five original Dunlop tyres are included with the sale, although these are suitable for display purposes only.
Launched for the 1955 model year, the Ford Thunderbird was Ford’s answer to the growing appetite for stylish two-seaters in post-war America. Rather than building an outright sports car, Ford created what it called a “personal car”, combining sleek open-top styling with V8 power and everyday comfort. The formula proved a resounding success: the Thunderbird comfortably outsold its rival, the Chevrolet Corvette, in its debut year and went on to become one of the defining American automobiles of the 1950s. The first-generation cars, built from 1955 to 1957 and affectionately known as the “Baby Birds”, remain the most sought-after of all Thunderbird generations among collectors.
Under the long bonnet sits the 4.7-litre Y-block V8, delivering the effortless, deep-chested performance that made the Thunderbird such an appealing cruiser. In this example, the powerfully rumbling V8 is paired with an automatic transmission and power steering, allowing the car to be enjoyed comfortably even in today’s traffic. With its clean two-seat proportions, wide grille, distinctive round headlights and elegant rear fins, the 1955 Thunderbird captures the optimism and glamour of 1950s American motoring like few other cars. This is a fine opportunity for anyone who loves the lifestyle of 1950s America and wants to take a trip back in time.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
4 — Very Good. Clean with minimal wear; might need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Condition of the interior
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
Technical condition
4 — Very Good. Mechanically solid, with potential for minor servicing.
Overall condition
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
