Description
Ford Thunderbird | 1956
Highlights
- 5.1-litre V8 petrol engine
- Imported new to Switzerland in 1956, single ownership
- Repaint and interior restoration in 2023 for a Breitling exhibition
- Original condition with factory power steering
- Supplied with spare windshield and soft top
The seller offers for sale this 1956 Ford Thunderbird Cabriolet equipped with a 5.1-litre V8 engine and automatic transmission. Originally imported new to Switzerland in 1956, this car has remained in the care of its first owner, a professional mechanic who maintained it meticulously throughout its life. The Thunderbird was repainted in 2023 for display at the Breitling “Time B01 Ford Thunderbird Watch” launch in Geneva, and the interior upholstery was redone at the same time. The car presents in striking condition, with fresh paintwork, immaculate trim, and only a minor window adjustment required.
Mechanically, the car is reported to be in good running order. The V8 engine starts effortlessly, produces no smoke or unwanted noises, and the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly. The car is free of visible rust, accident damage, or modifications, retaining its original factory configuration including power steering and four-wheel drum brakes. A spare soft top and windshield are included with the sale, and the vehicle has passed Swiss “veteran” inspection, confirming its authenticity and preservation.
The 1956 Ford Thunderbird, introduced as America’s first “personal luxury car,” blended sports car styling with comfort and sophistication. With its elegant design, powerful V8 engine, and iconic porthole hardtop, it became an instant classic and remains one of the most recognizable American cars of the 1950s. This example, restored for an exclusive watch exhibition, represents a rare opportunity to acquire a well-documented and beautifully presented Thunderbird with historical provenance.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at 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.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Neuchâtel canton, Switzerland.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Swiss registration (veteran certified). The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
