1956 | Ford Thunderbird
Technical Information
Overview
The 1956 Ford Thunderbird introduced subtle refinements over its predecessor, including a redesigned rear bumper, front fender vents for improved cabin cooling, new taillights, and updated seat and door panels. Perhaps the most iconic update was the addition of portholes in the hardtop for enhanced visibility, alongside the Continental-style spare tire mount that became a defining feature of the model. Ford built 15,631 examples for the model year, each embodying the spirit of mid-century American luxury and performance.
This Raven Black 1956 Ford Thunderbird was sold new at Graham Ford in Downey, California, remaining with the original family until 2006. A body-off restoration was completed in 1999, including powder coating the frame, and the car has been carefully maintained since. Under the hood, the legendary 312ci V8—producing 225 horsepower with the Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission—delivers effortless cruising performance. It is well-equipped with power steering, power brakes, power windows, a power seat, and both the soft top and porthole hardtop.
Under current ownership, the 1956 Ford Thunderbird has received significant servicing to ensure reliability and drivability. The fuel system was refreshed with a new electric fuel pump and filter, along with a rebuilt carburetor to optimize performance. The electrical system was also updated with a new battery, generator, and voltage regulator, ensuring consistent charging. A rebuilt power steering ram improves handling, while a radiator rebuild and heater control valve replacement enhance cooling efficiency. Additionally, a fresh oil change with a zinc additive helps protect the engine, and a new transmission tail seal was installed to address minor leaks.
The Town & Country radio is present but currently inoperative, and the previous owner previously installed a ’57 model distributor for improved reliability, which rendered the tachometer nonfunctional—though the original ’56 distributor is included in the sale. Additionally, period-correct factory accessory seat belts were sourced and installed for added safety.
Accompanied by a copy of the original invoice, service records, a Ford-O-Matic shop manual, a ’56 Ford shop manual, and the owner’s manual, this 1956 Ford Thunderbird is a well-sorted, highly original example that retains its timeless appeal with modern reliability. Now offered at no reserve, it is exceptionally clean and road-ready, it is the perfect balance of classic aesthetics and thoughtful upgrades, ensuring it remains an iconic cruiser for years to come.
Features & Options
Features:
- 312ci V8 engine producing 225 horsepower
- Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission
- Power steering, power brakes, power windows, and power seat
- Raven Black exterior over a black-and-white interior
- Both soft top and porthole hardtop included
- Continental-style spare tire mount
- Town & Country radio (currently inoperative)
- ’57 model distributor installed for reliability (original ’56 distributor included)
- Period-correct factory accessory seat belts
Service Records
October 2024 Service:
- Removed and replaced the electric fuel pump
- Removed and replaced the fuel filter
- Replaced needle and seats on the carburetor to prevent overflow
June 2024 Service:
- Full vehicle inspection
- Installed new generator
- Installed new voltage regulator
April 2024 Service:
- Replaced battery
- Rebuilt and installed new carburetor
- Replaced and installed new distributor
- Installed new transmission tail seal
- Replaced tachometer driven gear
March 2023 Service:
- Replaced heater control valve
- Rebuilt carburetor
- Adjusted headlights
- Replaced choke
January 2023 Service:
- Checked and tightened lower radiator hose clamp to address slight coolant leak (No charge)
December 2022 Service:
- Rebuilt radiator
- Removed and installed new radiator
- Rebuilt steering ram
- Installed rebuilt steering ram
- Installed new UV hangers and adjusted muffler
- Replaced valve cover gasket
- Performed oil change with conventional 10W-30 and Lucas zinc oil additive
- Compression test performed
- Left bank: 180, 165, 160, 180
- Right bank: 155, 160, 155, 160
Ownership History & Provenance
Known Shortcomings
- Please view the entire document for a description of condition
Items included in the Sale
- Factory literature (i.e. an owner's manual)
- Purchase documentation (i.e. original sales invoice)
- Service records from current ownership
- Service records from previous ownership
- 2 key fobs
