1956 Ford Thunderbird Frame-Off Restored - CELEBRITY CAR!

Ford Thunderbird  1956
$79,997
Stock #: Color:
VIN#: Transmission:
Year: Interior:
Make: Drive Train:
Model:
Trim:
Engine: Vehicle Type:

Contact Information:

Scan QR Code:

City

Fuel Economy

Hwy

QR Code Reader Required to View

1956 Ford Thunderbird Frame-Off Restored - CELEBRITY CAR! Vehicle Description

Step into American History with this STUNNING 1956 Ford Thunderbird, once owned by the legendary Howard Hughes — and Famously participated in a Guinness Book of World Records Flight Operation. This exceptional example of mid-century automotive design has been meticulously frame-off restored to TOP LEVEL standards, preserving its timeless appeal while honoring its iconic provenance.

Finished in eye-catching Fiesta Red with a matching Hard-Top with ICONIC Porthole Windows, this Thunderbird exudes classic 1950s flair and elegance. Under the hood lies the powerful 312 cubic inch V8 engine, mated to a smooth automatic transmission, offering both effortless cruising and unmistakable American muscle.

From the gleaming chrome to the show-quality paint, no detail was overlooked in the restoration of this piece of motoring and Hollywood history. The interior has been returned to its original glory, reflecting the luxury and innovation that made the Thunderbird a symbol of style and performance.

Whether you're a collector, enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the fusion of celebrity, craftsmanship, and classic automotive design, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a vehicle that transcends the ordinary.

Current NADA Book Values Range from $94,065 up to $138,055 — which adds zero value for the certain prominence and history of this particular vehicle. We have decided to sell this GORGEOUS piece of HISTORY for JUST $79,997 — so you are not only getting a 1-of-1 Collector Piece — you are getting a TON of “INSTANT EQUITY” in a BLUE CHIP COLLECTOR Status Vehicle.

Check out the details - Check out the photos - Watch the YouTube “Walk-Around” Video — then CALL Or EMAIL us TODAY to BuY-iT-NOW! Need assistance with FINANCING or SHIPPING??? NO PROBLEM!!! We have the resources to get this RARE SPECIMEN from our SHOWROOM FLOOR to YOUR GARAGE DOOR! 800-605-2252.

EXTERIOR:

  • Frame-Off Restoration

  • Fiesta Red Exterior

  • Color-Matched “Porthole” Hardtop

  • White Soft-Top

  • Kelsey-Hayes Chrome Spoke Wheels

  • Wide-White-Wall Tires

  • Factory Continental Kit

INTERIOR:

  • Fully Restored

  • Color-Matched Red & White Vinyl Interior

  • Factory Power Seat

  • Original Gauges

  • Original Steering Wheel

  • Factory Fit Modern Stereo

DRIVETAIN:

  • 312 Cubic-Inch V8 Engine

  • Automatic Transmission

  • Rear-Wheel-Drive

  • Frame-Off Restored

  • Highly Detailed to Original Engine Bay

  • Highly Detailed to Original Undercarriage

  • Starts Easy - Idles Smooth - Runs Strong! (See Video)

HISTORY:

  • Offered here is a truly exceptional 1956 Ford Thunderbird with an extraordinary backstory. Purchased BRAND NEW by George and Peg Crockett—founders of Alamo Airways and owners of Alamo Field, the original site of today’s LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT —this Thunderbird was far more than just a stylish personal car.

  • Originally used as a high-speed support vehicle, it served a critical role at Alamo Field, rushing supplies and, at times, fire-fighting equipment to aircraft. The T-Bird also matched the bold image of Alamo Airways, known for chauffeuring celebrities in a V-16 Cadillac and hosting aviation legend Howard Hughes, a personal friend of the Crocketts.

  • Most notably, this Thunderbird played a key role in one of aviation’s most remarkable records. In late 1958, it was used to help keep a Cessna 172 Airplane aloft for 64 days, 22 hours, and 19 minutes—a feat that still stands as the world record for the longest continuous flight. When the custom-built fuel tanker failed, George Crockett drove this very car along a dry lakebed near Primm, Nevada, pacing with the aircraft while passing five-gallon cans of gasoline up via rope—a true testament to ingenuity and determination.

  • In 1967, the Thunderbird was included in the sale of Alamo Airways to the worldy famous Howard Hughes owner of Hughes Tool & Aviation Company . The original Hughes Tool Company property tag still remains affixed to the firewall. Hughes later sold the car to his personal pilot in the mid-1970s.

  • Since then, the car has remained in private collections and has undergone a meticulous FRAME-OFF RESTORATION. If you’ve traveled through the Las Vegas International Airport - you may have seen this car as it was on display in the baggage claim area. Today, it presents in stunning show condition, a rare blend of historical significance, provenance, and beautifully restored classic design.

Here is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a true piece of aviation and automotive history.

NADA BOOK VALUES:

Average Book Value: $94,065

High Book Value: $138,055

BuY-iT-NOW: $79,997

CALL or EMAIL us TODAY to BuY-iT-NOW!

800-605-2252

****NATIONWIDE SHIPPING AVAILABLE****

****NATIONWIDE FINANCING AVAILABLE****

****TRADE-IN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE****

We take trades, Offer Nationwide Financing, and can assist with SHIPPING Door-2-Door WORLDWIDE! We are a 50 YEAR-OLD FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED DEALERSHIP doing BUSINESS the RIGHT WAY since 1972! We offer 5 ACRES of INVENTORY, LARGE AC & HEATED SHOWROOM AREA, and FULL SERVICE DEPARTMENT with CERTIFIED TECHS on STAFF! ****SEE 50+ DETAILED PHOTOS of this SUPER NICE CLASSIC & MANY MORE CLASSIC and COLLECTORS @ WWW.THIELMOTORS.COM****563-659-9309.#THIELMOTORSDEWITT

Shipping Assistance:

We can assist with shipping quotes and shipping arrangements. We are not affiliated with any specific auto carrier. We assume no responsibility for damages incurred after the vehicle leaves our showroom. Any claims or other communication regarding shipment of vehicles will be between you and the transporter, not with Thiel Motor Sales Inc.



Warranty Information

Warranty Type:
Warranty Term:
Description:

Vehicle Disclaimer

Purchase Disclaimer:

VERY RARE & EYE-Catching 1956 Ford Thunderbird. Super Nice SHOW QUALITY CAR that will turn heads at any classic car event, gas station, or sunny day cruise! Starts Easy, Idles Smooth, Runs Strong (See Video!). Please call or email with any specific condition questions. 800-605-2252.

Due to our inventory size, location, and sometimes inclement weather, we are unable to drive every vehicle for long distances. We also cannot guarantee that every gauge, light, window, horn, option, function, etc., will work as it should. These cars are old, and components can fail at any time with little or no warning. Iowa is a non-inspection state; therefor, please check your local and state inspection/emissions requirements. Please note that we do not guarantee any factory or aftermarket air-conditioning systems, gauges, or electrical systems. Given the nature of the vintage vehicles we sell, these components will need upkeep or attention. In addition, many times these vehicles sit for long periods of time and once you begin to drive them, seals harden and gaskets may begin to leak. Classic cars are like old Harley motorcycles, they always leak. Please make sure you are comfortable with this before buying a vintage automobile. Classic vehicles will always require a certain amount of maintenance and upkeep. The information provided in this ad is solely for your convenience and advertising purposes. The description is an opinion only and should not be considered a complete description of any or all faults; it may not be relied upon nor taken as fact or otherwise a representation or warranty of any sort. Please note, we did not build or restore the vehicle. Some vehicles will come with original paperwork, restoration receipts, books, manuals, covers, additional keys; should the vehicle come with any of these items it will be listed in the description and sometimes shown in the photos. All vehicles are sold AS-IS, WHERE-IS with all faults known/unknown and with no implied warranty. ALL SALES ARE FINAL, with no exceptions. Mileage will be considered "exempt" due to age, unless otherwise specified in the description. Pre-Purchase inspections are welcomed and encouraged. We provide many detailed photos, YouTube “walk-around” videos, and describe these vehicles to the best of our ability; however, we are only human and there may be something we miss or see totally differently than you. If you have any questions or concerns, please call or email before making purchase. We do offer a classic car extended warranty package through Freedom Warranties, please contact a Thiel Motor Sales representative for exact coverage and cost.

The advertised vehicle is being sold in "AS-IS, WHERE-IS CONDITION" with no Warranty or Guarantee expressed or implied.