Impression: Danbury Mint 1955 Thunderbird LE

First of all, the just released '55 T-Bird is not an all new tool. It is a mixture new and old technology. The new includes accurate door hinges, the delicate scripts employed, and nice under-hood upgrades. Older carryovers are to be found here and there. This is most evidenced by the chassis where the steering mechanism hangs rather low. On my sample, the front wheels are almost impossible to turn via the steering wheel. Opening and closing the hood has the feel, and sound, of the old tool, as well. Having said that, it is the finest available model of this image, and it probably will remain so for some time to come. I can guess the 1956 offering in this series will be very similar.

Finish

The paint has been applied evenly, smoothly, and is flawless. This shade of yellow (Goldenrod) is one that does not do itself any favors under neon lighting; it has a chartreuse aspect that is not pleasant to my eye. Again, that is only in fluorescent light.

Doors

These days, nothing separates the serious from the pretender like door hinges. Had this upgrade not been incorporated, the whole effort would be severely diminished. The doors on my example opened and closed perfectly, not always the case with hidden hinges.

Photo-etched script

The scripts are protected by small pieces of clear plastic. There is a good reason for this as they are very delicate and, as is the case with Danbury lately, easily knocked off. Caution is in order if you must apply polish. I would advise avoiding them entirely when handling the car.

Steering

Attempting to turn the steering wheel proved fruitless. The wheel rim is so thin, I felt it would break with undo effort. Often, in cases like this, I assist the operation by maneuvering the front wheels directly while gently turning the steering wheel.

Hard top

I followed the directions for installing the hard top, and I have read where others have managed it, but I could not get both rear locating pins to seat. I did get the impression that, with the top in place, it would interfere with opening the truck lid.

Skirts

In the process of trying to get the top to fit, I managed to cave in one of the skirts. They are designed to be dislodged by pulling them straight down. I suggest removing them prior to any serious handling. Combined with the fragile scripts, there are precious few safe hand-holds on this car.

Engine

Peering into the engine compartment, we find Danbury's detailing effort taken to high art. Ignition wiring, hoses, hose clamps, decaling, and accessories are up to today's ever more rigid standards I'm not sure why, but the washer bag stands out as particularly realistic. After admiring the host of eye fetching detail throughout the car, the engine bay completes a satisfying survey of this well-done upgrade of one of the DM's worst images around (the old Coral red '56.)

This Bird is the first release in Danbury's 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Thunderbird series. It stands on its own merits as a worthy representation of this icon of the personal car. Just as important, it is the required ticket for admission to the rest of the series that includes a '56, 59, and, due out next, the black '62 Landau Coupe.