Early test mule for the '55 T-Bird

interesting, thanks John. As is the linked article about potential use of Fairlane side trim.

https://www.macsmotorcitygarage.com/the-phantom-1955-fairlane-thunderbird/

That is a really interesting article, John and a neat test mule for the upcoming Thunderbird project. And the prototype using Fairlane side trim is also fascinating to see, Geoff. The end result was a real classic automobile. 

This Burnetti  test mule is a fascinating piece of Thunderbird history that I never knew about. Very cool! 😎 

I'm surprised no manufacture ever made a model of it. Seems like something right up Autocult's  alley.  I knew about on-again-off-again side trim. In fact, I've seen a few very early production T-Birds wearing "Fairlane trim"   in addition to some 100-point, rotisserie show cars restored that way.

What I still don't know about is who/why was the decision made to fill in all body panel lines/gaps on 1955-'57 T-Birds.

Ever notice that there is no separation of panels?  All gaps were filled in at the factory. 🤔 🤔 🤔 🤨 

What a vast departure from that mule to the gorgeous bird that was the production '55! Perfect as it was; the Fairlane side trim just added what wasn't really needed. Cool stuff here -thanks everyone!

I have the Durham Fairlane Thunderbird in black with red/white interior displayed next to my Brooklin 55, 56 and 57 Thunderbirds.

Ugly Burnetti but good for purpose. Interesting article JK. Thank you. Geoff’s follow up article also was a good read.