1956 Ford Thunderbird Custom

This is a genuine 1956 Ford Thunderbird, the first-generation “Classic Bird,” built at the Dearborn, Michigan assembly plant. This example has been very nicely modified to the liking of its last owner, and its current specifications are still being catalogued.

The VIN, M6FH349757, decodes the car as it left the factory. M: the 292 cubic-inch (4.8 liter) Y-block V8 with a four-barrel carburetor and three-speed manual transmission, rated at 202 horsepower (many 1956 Thunderbirds carried the optional 312 cubic-inch V8, code P). 6: the 1956 model year. F: the Dearborn plant, the only major plant building Thunderbirds that year. H: the Thunderbird convertible body style. 349757: the sequential unit number within Ford’s production run at the plant.

Total 1956 Thunderbird production was 15,631 units, making them relatively rare compared to other Fords of the era. This car falls in the later part of the year’s run. It left the factory with the 292 V8 and a manual transmission, and has since been customized with the engine, suspension, interior, and exterior upgrades common in the classic car scene.