312 engine special order 1955?

[MIke Calhoon]

I have a 1955 loaded with options. all original except one repaint and immaculate original condition everywhere. It was stored for 40 plus years and has 90K miles. It has a 312 engine, 3spd manual with overdrive. Trying to determine since production of this engine began in 1954, could a 55 Bird be special ordered with this power train? Going down the list of options, this car has about them all including power windows and 4 way seats, so looks like a special order car... Seems like engine may be original due to the quality of the rest of the car. Could you tell me where the date code would be on the block? Thanks for your help. Mike 863-944-8615

[GBird]

Hey Mike
I'm pretty sure the 312 wasn't available until 1956. Are you sure it is a 312? If it's the original engine it could also be a bored out 292.
Good luck

Rick

[Jimz Bird]

Hi Mike,

It is doubtful but not impossible. In that day you could get just about anything you wanted by Special Order.

First go here to get some info about how to ID a 312. It is not a simple process but can be done.

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Next, if you don't have it, get a copy of the original Invoice. If it was a special order then the Invoice should list it. For example, my 56 is Thunderbird Green with a Brown Interior. That combination is not listed in the sales material but is verified by my data plate and Original Invoice. Only a couple of those from what I can find out. That is neat combination but it would really be cool if you do have a 55 312.

HTH and that you do have a 312 - Sometimes it is kinda neat to be "odd"

Jim