Vehicle Description
1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible
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 builder
of this car put his heart and soul into this restoration, leaving
virtually no stones unturned. A labor of love that took all but 10
years, along with the post restoration years of enjoyment leaving
the kids behind and motoring with just him and his wife, they
created many memories with the fruits of his labors.
Exterior
Micrometer tolerance straight rust free, blemish free steel panels
covered in Ford Flame Red, clad the exterior of this car. A
matching hardtop with porthole window caps the interior passenger
compartment. All brightwork, and chrome bumpers are in excellent
condition. 14-inch 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, red,
electrically 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 carpet floor mats, looks like it has
never seen the underside of a shoe. Door panels show power window,
and seat controls, 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 Ford-O-Matic 3-speed automatic.
On the back is a Ford 9-inch rear with 3.10 gears. We note a chrome
air cleaner assembly atop the 4bbl carburetor, finned Thunderbird
rocker covers, power brake booster and power steering. All
presenting well and ready to wow the crowd.
Undercarriage
Up on the lift plenty of nice black undercoating on the floorpans,
rockers and wheel wells. A strong stable X frame which is also rust
free holds up the car with ease. 4 wheel power drum brakes are
seen, on all corners, and a new aluminum radiator has been
installed as well as a new fuel tank. Stainless steel exhaust
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, curses smoothly, and has nice peppy
acceleration. Stopping is no problem with the power brakes, and all
functions are working as they should.
If you want to be the star of that Main Street impromptu car show,
this award-winning, largely-original Thunderbird, backing a hot 312
cubic inch V8 with a Ford-O-Matic 3-speed, is definitely your kind
of classic! A consigner restored, and driven here from out of
state, actually brought a tear to his eye upon dropping the car
off. Guaranteed to turn your face into a smile when you are behind
the wheel of this endearing automobile classic.
VIN DECODE
D7FH142857
D-312ci V8 245hp 4bbl
7-1957
F-Dearborn, MI Assy Plant
H-Thunderbird
142857-Sequential Unit Number
WARRANTY TAG
BODY 40-Thunderbird
COLOR JJ-Willow Green
TRIM XM-Cumberland & Willow
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 600 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.