I'd pick a first-generation Ford Thunderbird any day ... A 312-cubic-inch (5.1-liter) V8 joined the existing 292-cubic-inch (4.8-liter) Y-block unit. Finally, the color palette was enhanced ...

Ford is one of the United States' most enduring ... but initially could only be purchased with a 292-cubic inch Y-block V8. For the 1956 model year, a 312-inch version was added to the option ...

Ford changed all of that in 1932 with the introduction of the 221 cubic inch flathead V8. Almost immediately ... in favor of the new overhead valve Y-block, flatheads were a dime a dozen in ...