Highlights

4.8-litre V8 engine
Sold new by the renowned Galpin Ford dealer in Los Angeles
Matching numbers with a comprehensive documented history
Recently serviced with new fuel pump, rebuilt carburettor, and valve clearance adjustment

The Appeal

Marketed as an upmarket alternative to the two-door, convertible Chevrolet Corvette, the Ford Thunderbird broke new ground with its compact size and impressive performance, boasting a 0-100 km/h time of just 9.4 seconds and a top speed of 160 km/h.

This 1955 example is equipped with a manual gearbox and a powerful 190 hp 4.8-litre V8 engine, offering a driving experience that is both thrilling and nostalgic in equal measure.

Originally sold by the well-known Galpin Ford dealer in Los Angeles, this car has a rich history, having spent decades in California before making its way to Poland. With matching numbers and a documented history, this Thunderbird is a rare find that's eminently worthy of your careful consideration.

History and Paperwork

89,800 miles indicated
Originally sold by Galpin Ford dealer in Los Angeles
Spent 30 years in California, then moved to New York State, and later sold at auction in Canada
Brought to Poland by the 4th owner in 2013
Accompanied by a substantial history file

The Condition

Bodywork appears straight and solid with no notable imperfections
Paintwork is over 35 years old with some light patina
Electrically adjustable bench seat - an innovative feature in its day
No notable wear apparent to the period-correct upholstery
The controls, instruments and engine dashboard look very smart
Manual roof reportedly in good order
No hard top included

The Mechanics

4.8-litre V8 petrol
Very smart and original-looking engine compartment
Manual transmission with three gears and overdrive (overdrive not currently working)
Recently serviced and new Face fuel pump fitted
Carburettor rebuilt and new spark plugs installed
Valve clearance adjustment completed in 2024
Reportedly driving very well

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand.