The power part of the equation came from the 292-cid version of the corporate "Y-block" ohv V-8 shared with Mercury. Equipped with a Holley four-barrel carburetor and dual exhausts, it made 193 bhp at 4,400 rpm in cars built with the standard three-speed manual transmission, or 198 bhp in those fitted with the extra-cost Fordomatic automatic gearbox. Overdrive was also available for stickshift cars.
Though it was inspired by the many -- mostly foreign-built -- sports cars that were capturing the imagination of American enthusiasts in the early 1950s, the Thunderbird was built like a little luxury car. Its family car-like suspension delivered a softer ride than "pure" sports cars (and would be made softer still in 1956). Roll-up windows and the availability of a removable fiberglass top lent more all-weather comfort than the folding tops and snap-in curtains associated with most other two-seaters. A standard telescoping steering column helped drivers find an optimal position behind the wheel. Optional power assists cradled passengers in the lap of luxury.
Story via How Stuff Works
My first car was a 1956 T-Bird, which I believe was the prettiest year (and, no - I didn't buy it new - heh) I loved that car! Built like a little tank.
ReplyDeleteI paid about $1000.00 for it, drove it for about 12 years, sold it for $15,000.00, and bought my first house with the profit.
Very Nicely Done Miss Adrienne. Never owned one myself. My neighbor owned a pair of 56 T-Birds that I lusted over as a teenager. My Dad had already shot down my attempt to purchase a 66 Mustang as he was convinced was a death trap. There was absolutely no talking him into a T-Bird. It wasn't till the Navy before I scored my first car. A 62 Falcon.
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