Vehicle Description
We feature a lot of Tri-5 droptops at Streetside Classics, but not
many of them are representatives of the Blue Oval. Despite large
production numbers, '57 Fords are still far more scarce than their
Chevy competitors, making this the car to own for the Ford guy in
love with the '50s. Powered by a strong 312 V8 and highlighted by
some of the best styling Ford ever delivered, this droptop is a
very special classic car that isn't seen very often.
The two-tone paint job, consisting of Colonial White over Flame
Red, makes this awesome Ford look about as long as a city block.
Dramatic styling was the Ford's biggest virtue, and with the
cut-outs around the fenders and faired-in tailfins, it looks like
nothing else on the road. Finish level is solid driver-quality with
good attention to detail, precise gaps, and a glossy finish that's
deep and looks great when this droptop is bombing down the road. We
always avoid using hyperbolic when describing cars, but this one
stands out in our showroom simply because of its curb appeal and
rarity; it's simply attention-grabbing. And as a product of the
fabulous '50s, there's a ton of chrome, all of which was
professionally restored back during the rebuild, a project that
probably cost more than a new Hyundai, and it glitters against the
two-tone paint. Ford's familiar jet-inspired taillights look great
on the Fairlane and it proudly advertises that this is a
top-of-the-line Fairlane 500 with crisp script on each quarter
panel.
A glance inside this ragtop reveals a combination of both newer and
original components, using correct-style red and white vinyl
upholstery that's a smart compliment to the bodywork. There are
almost no signs of use, the seams are straight enough to have been
made with a ruler, and the new carpets haven't been faded by the
sun, remarkable in a convertible like this. The original gauges are
still in place, as is the oversized steering wheel, and you'll note
the auxiliary dial under the dash that helps monitor the engine's
vitals more accurately. There's also a newer retro-style AM/FM/CD
stereo that fits neatly in the center of the dash, and it powers
the Boston Acoustics subwoofers mounted inside a custom panel in
the trunk. A white power convertible top fits beautifully and
includes a big rear window out back, although if you're like us,
you'd keep that top down whenever possible. It all stashes under a
matching vinyl boot that matches the interior upholstery and
exterior paint nicely. The massive trunk is nicely appointed,
including a correct mat, a full-sized spare tire with jack
assembly, a relocated battery, and the aforementioned custom
speaker system.
Swing the forward-hinged hood open and you'll find a neatly
detailed 312 cubic inch V8 Y-block that delivers plenty of power to
move all the curb weight of this slick convertible. With a big
chrome air cleaner and Thunderbird finned valve covers atop the
red-painted block, it looks the part and can be shown off with
pride. You'll also note valuable options in power steering and
power brakes and an alternator to keep it all charged up. A Holley
carburetor and dual exhaust with factory-style mufflers give it a
bit more power along with a traditional performance sound, while
the 2-speed automatic transmission goes about its business without
making a fuss. The very clean chassis is otherwise quite authentic
and shows off newer shocks, so it rides and handles like a 1957
Ford should and it sits on gorgeous chrome wire wheels wrapped in
beautiful 215/75/14 Coker Classics wide whitewall radials.
Nicely finished, fully functional, and rather rare, this vintage
Ford droptop represents a great combination of restoration and
originality to create a car you'll look forward to driving as often
as possible. Call now!
