1956 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

01

Artifact Overview

The Thunderbird recalled the early days of automobiling, when cars were more fun than functional. Thunderbirds and other small two-seaters were sold as "personal cars" -- often second cars -- in which motorists could enjoy driving for its own sake. This Thunderbird's owner, Ford engineer William Burnett, had a uniquely personal relationship with it -- he supervised the development of the first Thunderbird.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Automobile

Date Made

1956

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

76.55.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Lydia Burnett.

Material

Metal
Glass (Material)
Chromium
Vinyl
Rubber (Material)

Technique

Custom-made

Color

White (Color)
Turquoise (Color)
Black (Color)
Gold (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 52 in
Width: 69 in
Length: 185 in
Wheelbase: 102 in

Inscriptions

On hubs: FORD / FORD On side emblems: FORD On center edge of hood: Thunderbird emblem On sides of rear fenders, in chrome: THUNDERBIRD On rear tire cover, in chrome: THUNDERBIRD

Specifications

Make & Model: 1956 Ford Thunderbird convertible
Maker: Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Michigan
Engine: V-8, overhead valves, 312 cubic inches
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Height: 52 inches
Wheelbase: 102 inches
Width: 70.5 inches
Overall length: 175.5 inches
Weight: 3088 pounds
Horsepower: 215 at 4600 revolutions per minute
Pounds per horsepower: 14.4
Price: $3,151
Average 1956 wage: $4,342 per year
Time you'd work to buy this car: about 8-1/2 months
1956 Ford Thunderbird Convertible