Vehicle Description
Conceived in response to Chevrolet's Corvette sports car, the Ford
Thunderbird debuted in October 1954 as one of the very first models
to feature Ford's new overhead-valve V8 engine. As a counterpoint
to the overtly sporty Corvette, the Thunderbird offered more
equipment and luxury, intending to appeal to image-conscious
younger customers. Ford's product planners hit the market dead
center and over 16,000 Thunderbirds were assembled in the 1955
model year, beating the Corvette hands down in the sales war thanks
to its superior V8 engine and greater refinement. A low, sleek
two-seater, the Thunderbird offered amenities not found on the
Corvette - initially, at least - with comfort and convenience
options tailored to an affluent market. Alterations for the '56
season included the relocation of the spare wheel to the outside
the trunk in 'Continental Kit' style, while a 312ci, 215bhp
Thunderbird Special V8 was added to the option sheet. A more
thorough re-style for 1957 featured a longer tail section with
prominent fins. This provided greater luggage space while enabling
the spare wheel to be relocated to the boot, thus improving
handling. Performance options include the twin-carb "E-Code" and
even the "F-Code" with a Paxton supercharger. Despite its success,
the original Thunderbird concept was soon abandoned and a larger -
and slower - four-seat version was introduced for 1958, a move that
turned the early two-seater cars into collectors' items seemingly
overnight. Completed at the Dearborn, Michigan Ford plant, this
1957 Thunderbird E-Code represents the final production year of the
classic, two-seat Thunderbird, featuring the larger 312ci OHV V8
engine topped with the optional twin Holley carburetors and rated
for a healthy 270 horsepower. Of the 21,380 Thunderbirds produced
in 1957, just 1,449, less than 7%, were ticked with the E-Code
option. Its 312-cubic-inch V-8 produced an impressive 270
horsepower thanks in part to dual four-barrel Holley carburetors.
Here, it is mated to a Ford-O-Matic two speed automatic
transmission. The engine compartment is beautifully detailed with
an under-hood dress-up kit, which includes a distinctive chromed
valve covers and chromed oil breather cap, correct domed E code air
cleaner, Ford script hoses, correct clamps, proper assemble
markings, original style decals, and even a "tar top" battery
showcase the quality of the restoration. The sporting Ford was the
recipient of an award winning full restoration by marque specialist
Hill's Automotive of Racine, Ohio. The appealing livery of Dusk
Rose with a Colonial White removable hardtop is the original color
scheme per the car's data tag, as is the authentically restored
Colonial White vinyl interior. Cabin amenities present on this
example include power steering and windows and a power seat and,
for entertainment, a Town & Country radio set into the
engine-turned dashboard. The car features two sets of rolling
stock, a gorgeous set of Kelsey-Hayes-style chrome wire wheels
wrapped in wide whitewall radial tires, as well as a set of proper
original steel wheels with restored wheel covers and bias ply
whitewalls for show. A frequent concours competitor, the car has
been shown extensively at events around the country, including the
Milwaukee Masterpiece, Meadowbrook Concours, Ault Park Concours,
Keenland Concours and has achieved Senior status with the Vintage
Thunderbird Club International (VTCI) as well as the Classic
Thunderbird Club International (CTCI). Although the supercharged
"F-Code" Thunderbird is the rarest and most powerful model, the
twin-four-barrel E-Code is considered by many to be the better
driver's car. Less temperamental and easier to drive, it offers
turn-key convenience with faithful reliability. Painstakingly
restored in the oh so Fifties original color scheme of Dusk Rose
and Colonial White with Colonial White vinyl interior, it has been
meticulously maintained. All in all, this E-Code T-Bird represents
an excellent opportunity to acquire an iconic classic that is
equally at home on the concours lawn or the open road. Offers
welcome and trades considered For additional details please view
this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7684-1957-ford-thunderbird-e-bird/
