Bronze. The first generation Thunderbird, the little birds, were built from 1955 to 1957. Ford did not consider the Thunderbird a sports car, but rather, a 'personal luxury vehicle, by putting greater emphasis on the comfort and convenience of the car despite its sporty lines and V8 motor. The closest competitor was Chevrolets Corvette, with similar 2 seater Roadster styling was in its third year of production. In 1955, the Thunderbird outsold the Corvette more than 23 to 1. They came with a removable fiberglass top, a fabric convertible top was an option. They featured single round headlamps, modest tail fins, hood scoop, pleated vinyl upholstery and electric seats. For 1957 the front and rear bumpers, doors, and rear fenders were all restyled. It got new tail lamps, instrument panel and upholstery design. The spare wheel moved back inside the trunk, which had been redesigned to allow it to be mounted vertically. The side 'Thunderbird' script moved from the fins to the front fenders. 1957 was the last of the two seater little birds. Engines; 212hp 292 Y block Thunderbird V8 (C Code), optional was 245hp 312 cu in Thunderbird Special V8 (E Code) or 285hp 312 cu in Thunderbird Super V8 (E Code)