Ford Thunderbird Specs, Engines & Dimensions (1955–1957) — First Generation
The first-generation Ford Thunderbird is a personal two-seater you can choose as a Cabrio or Coupe. It set the template for a stylish Ford that was more about the drive than carrying a crowd.
Selected 4.8 MT Cabrio and Coupe examples pair a gasoline Ford Thunderbird engine with a manual transmission and rear-wheel drivetrain. You shift yourself, and that powertrain sends drive to the rear wheels in either body, so the choice is open air versus a fixed roof.
Cabrio — Ford Thunderbird Engines and Transmissions