Put this first generation T-bird (aka the ‘Babybird’) next to its later brethren and it’s hard to believe they share a name and a lineage.
Where the cars you see here are mid-sized, a full-blown sixties version goes close to redefining the term ‘land yacht’. Both have their virtues and both were intended to leverage the relatively new market in the rising middle-class, which Ford described as the ‘personal luxury car’ segment.
The overall architecture is familiar: V8 powerplant with auto, though the first-generation went through numerous alterations in its short existence.
Classic and American Imports in SA has this impressive line-up. So, which one? Tough decision.
Ford Thunderbird
YEARS OF PRODUCTION 1955-1957
BODY separate chassis
ENGINE 5.1-litre V8 (1957)
POWER 183kW @ 4500rpm
TORQUE 450Nm @ 2700rpm
GEARBOX 3-speed auto
SUSPENSION wishbone front live axle rear
BRAKES Drums
WHERE classicandamericanimports.com.au