1957 Ford Thunderbird Roadster

The Thunderbird and the Corvette have a long and sorted history, with both initially competing for the same customer space. Eventually the Corvette went to racing, and the Thunderbird became the boulevard king. The ultimate getaway car from the kids with only 2 seats, as well as the option to have a hardtop traveler, or a convertible cruiser, it became the “it” car for mid-1950s suburbia.

If you're looking for a sweet 50s-era classic that's valuable, fun to drive and has the ability to turn Main Street into an instant classic car show then this is “it” for you. The consigner purchased this car from the gentleman who restored it and then had it on display in his body shop. During this restoration, the owner of this car put his heart and soul into this restoration, leaving virtually no stones unturned. A labor of love along with the post restoration years of enjoyment and display have kept this final year baby bird out of the elements for the last 25 years.

Exterior
Well minded gaps on the straight rust free, blemish free steel panels covered in Ford Raven Black clad the exterior of this car with only a few minor scratches and scrapes. A Colonial White hardtop with porthole window caps the interior passenger compartment. All brightwork, and chrome bumpers are in excellent condition. 14-inch Kelsey Hayes chromed wire wheels with T bird spinners are seen all around, and sport fat white sidewall striped tires. A white canvas convertible top in new condition can be popped if you get caught in a shower while motoring with the top down. All plastic windows in the top are clear and blemish free.

Interior
Mid-fifties design drips from the interior, with a red, red, Flame red, manually operated bench seat spanning from door to door. A red vinyl padded dash, has more beautiful curves than a centerfold model, and is highlighted with all correct gauges, levers, and knobs, all within a brushed machined aluminum front dash. Plush red carpeting with Thunderbird rubber floor mats looks like it has never seen the underside of a shoe. Door panels show power windows as well as wind wings added to the doors. A sweeping front windshield reminiscent of future bubble tops wraps the driver's compartment. Trunk is adorned with a typical Ford plaid trunk liner, and it is in really good condition.

Drivetrain
The standard 1957 Thunderbird engine was a 292 cubic inch V-8, rated at 212 horsepower and supplied only with the 3-speed manual transmission. This car, however, has the optional 312ci 4bbl V8 producing 245hp and is mated to a 3-speed manual transmission with overdrive. On the back is a Ford 9-inch rear with 3.70 gears. We note a chrome air cleaner assembly atop the 4bbl carburetor, finned Thunderbird rocker covers, and a wonderful red painted block. All presenting well and ready to wow the crowd.

Undercarriage
Up on the lift plenty of nice black paint on the floor pans, rockers and wheel wells. A strong stable X frame which is also rust free holds up the car with ease. 4-wheel drum brakes are seen on all corners, and new shocks have been installed as well as a new fuel tank. Dual exhaust with stock style mufflers evacuates engine gasses quicker than a passenger elevator in a high rise during a fire! Independent coil sprung front suspension and leaf springs for the back are there for the ride.

Drive-Ability
Just a well done with passion car, and it drives as such. Fires right up, and handles nicely, cruises smoothly, and has nice peppy acceleration. Stopping is no problem with the drum brakes, but a few frowns crept up during my drive. The brake lights did not illuminate, the turn signals are non functional and the radio doesn't turn on.

If you want to be the star of that Main Street impromptu car show, this largely-original Thunderbird, backing a hot 312 cubic inch V8 with a 3-speed manual and overdrive, this is definitely your kind of classic! A lovingly restored, displayed and then sparingly driven car with a copy of the original window sticker, and full restoration receipts and photos. Guaranteed to turn your face into a smile when you are behind the wheel of this endearing automobile classic.

VIN DECODE
D7FH257195
D-312ci V8 4bbl 245hp
7-1957
F-Dearborn, MI Assy Plant
H-Thunderbird
257195-Sequential Unit Number

WARRANTY TAG
BODY 40-Thunderbird
COLOR AE-Raven Black, Colonial White
TRIM XH-Flame Red
PRODUCTION CODE 28C-March 28th

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 650 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.