1956 Ford Thunderbird Convertible
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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
Creators
Place of Creation
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
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