The Ford Motor Company has a history of creating market sectors. The Model T is often considered the first “people’s car,” with the Mustang credited, rightly or wrongly, as the first pony car. It created another in 1955 when it launched the Thunderbird, giving the buying public the first Personal Luxury Car. This T-Bird is from the initial production year, and finding anything to criticize about its condition and presentation is virtually impossible. It has no apparent needs and would suit an enthusiast seeking immediate classic motoring gratification. The seller has listed the Ford here on eBay in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. Bidding has raced beyond the reserve to $23,000 due to intense interest and action.

The launch of the Thunderbird in 1955 initially brought buyers the choice of three paint shades, with a further two added to the palette later that year. The original owner ordered this beauty in Raven Black with a matching soft-top and correct “porthole” hardtop. The car’s history is unclear, although the spotless presentation suggests that it may recently have emerged from a restoration. The paint is mirror-shiny and seemingly flawless. Any imperfections fail to show in the supplied photos, while the panels are laser-straight and free from bumps and bruises. It can’t spot any apparent rust, and the sole underside shot shows nothing beyond the occasional spot of surface corrosion. The top fits as tight as a drum, and the tinted glass is spotless. The trim and chrome appear virtually perfect, and the wire wheel covers and whitewalls provide the ideal finishing touch.

Ford didn’t go overboard with T-Bird paint and trim choices, limiting the latter to four for 1955. This car features Code XA Black and White, and its presentation is as impressive as the rest of the vehicle. There are no signs of wear or damage and little indication that the car has seen active service. The condition further hardens my belief that this car has recently undergone restoration. The wheel is one of the more prone areas, with the rim often exhibiting wear. This one is in as-new condition, with no cracks or other problems. The bright trim shines as beautifully as the paint, and the dash looks stunning. Ford labeled the Thunderbird a Personal Luxury Car, but a single glance confirms it isn’t highly equipped by modern standards. However, the four-way power seat, AM radio, and clock scored points with buyers in 1955.

One secret of the Thunderbird’s early success was Ford’s decision to follow the simplest approach possible. Buyers could power their new 1955 T-Bird with a 292ci V8…or a 292ci V8. Although the company considered both engines equal, buyers ordering their purchase with an automatic transmission received marginally more power and torque. This classic falls into that category, with its self-shifter and power steering further cementing its luxury credentials. The driver will have 198hp and 285 ft/lbs of torque at their disposal. The company focused on luxury, although this car’s ability to cover the ¼-mile in 17.2 seconds off the showroom floor would have been viewed favorably. The engine bay leaves me torn because there are a few contradictions. The overall appearance is positive, but there is messy wiring requiring attention if this classic is going to cause jaws to drop when the hood is opened. The seller doesn’t indicate whether the vehicle is numbers-matching. However, the fact it retains its six-volt electrical system suggests that any restoration work prioritized originality. The T-Bird runs and drives well, with a claimed (but unverified) 66,000 miles on the clock.

I can’t hide my admiration for this 1955 Thunderbird, and under different circumstances, I would consider parking it in my garage. However, I would face stiff opposition because the car has received thirty-two bids with plenty of time left in the auction. The fact it has exceeded the reserve means a new home is only a few days away, but are you tempted to join the bidding war to make it yours? I wish you luck if you do.