Although finding an original and unrestored survivor is the dream of many enthusiasts, becoming the new owner of a classic that has a few years behind it since a restoration is an option worth serious consideration. Freshly restored classics can potentially hide nasty surprises below shiny paint. However, cars like this 1956 Thunderbird offer no such issues, with it presenting as nicely today as it did years ago when a previous owner returned it to its former glory. It needs a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Eugene, Oregon. They set their BIN at $49,900, although interested parties could make an offer. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Larry D, who continues spotting beautiful classics.

The second year of Thunderbird production brought minor cosmetic changes, although the company added a second engine for those craving extra power. This model year also marked the lowest sales total for the First Generation T-Bird, although 15,631 only represented a drop of 500 cars over the previous year. It is unclear when this ’56 T-Bird received its restoration, but the seller indicates it has a few years behind it since. The Code J Buckskin Tan paint shines beautifully and is perfectly complemented by the correct White hardtop. If the new owner removes that component, the car also features a matching soft-top for all-weather protection. The paint shows no evidence of significant flaws or defects, and the trim holds a winning shine. A practical standard feature for 1956 was a Continental Kit that moved the spare tire outside the car and freed valuable trunk space. This one looks as impressive as the rest of the exterior, and although the stunning wire wheels aren’t original, they perfectly suit this classic’s character.

Although buyers could order their new T-Bird with a 292ci Y-Block under the hood, this car’s original owner opened their checkbook to specify the 225hp 312ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, and power steering. Ford never considered the Thunderbird a direct rival for Chevrolet’s Corvette, pitching the car to buyers seeking a more luxurious and refined drop-top motoring experience. However, that doesn’t mean this classic would be an automotive slug. If the driver poked it with a sharp stick, it could cover the ¼ mile in 16.5 seconds before running out of breath at 114mph. The seller states the T-Bird recently received a new battery and a professional tune-up. They say it runs and drives extremely well, and supply this YouTube video as evidence. It provides an excellent walk-around, and while we don’t see the car driving, we hear that Y-Block running. It sounds crisp and clean, with no smoke or odd noises.

Although the restorer stayed true to this Thunderbird’s original specifications during the exterior and drivetrain refurbishment, they headed in a different direction with its interior. The Tag confirms it rolled off the line trimmed in Code XG Brown and White, but its interior now looks stunning with all White upholstery and Black carpet. Finding anything to criticize is virtually impossible, with no signs of wear or staining. The bright trim pieces shine, while the gauges feature crystal clear lenses and crisp markings. The lack of issues and wear on items like the wheel suggests this classic has seen limited action since its refresh. As well as non-original trim, the dash houses a retro-look stereo in the spot usually occupied by the factory radio. Considering the trim upgrade, I feel that change is acceptable.

This 1956 Thunderbird has the “wow” factor, and its overall condition and presentation suggest its previous owner performed their restoration to a high standard. It appears to need nothing, and the seller’s claim that it could still win trophies after all these years sounds plausible. The Thunderbird market has softened over the past year, but spotless examples still command good prices. Recent sales results suggest the BIN on this car is competitive, and I won’t be surprised if it drives off to a new home reasonably soon.