For Sale: 1957 Ford Thunderbird in Grand Rapids, Michigan

1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible - 312ci V8 - 2 Speed Automatic Transmission - Paint Matched Removable Hardtop - Flame Red Over Red Interior Owning a Thunderbird in the late-Fifties immediately denoted a level of sophistication for those who wanted to be conspicuous, and was indeed one of the ultimate accessories for its well-heeled owner, male or female. Someone driving a bright Red Thunderbird like the one we offer here will certainly be noticed. The first generation of the Ford Thunderbirds were produced from 1955-1957. These first gen T-birds were two-seat convertibles that would later be replaced by a larger, more spacious Thunderbird in 1958, leading to the first-generation cars being nicknamed as Baby Birds. Ford sold 21,380 examples of the 1957 T-Bird, making them the most successful year of the T-Bird's early three-year run. Rumored to have been influenced by Henry Ford II's personal 1952 Ferrari 212/225 Barchetta, the T-Bird was cleverly marketed as a Mink Coat for Father. Owning a Thunderbird in the Fifties immediately denoted a level of sophistication for those who wanted to be conspicuous, and was indeed one of the ultimate accessories for its well-heeled owner, male or female. For 1957, the Ford Thunderbird underwent some visual changes that truly transformed it into the luxurious boulevard cruiser. Few cars at the time could equal it in terms of class and appeal that model year. The most notable change to this model year was the front bumper which was changed by removing the large chrome nacelles, and adding fog lights to the corners. Featured here is a fine example of Ford's two-door personal luxury vehicle. This 1957 Ford Thunderbird is painted in its factory color aptly named Flame Red. The finish shows a few blemishes and nicks as expected of an older repaint, however the paint presents as well maintained, and shines with a nice gloss. Factory chrome and stainless is all present and has been well preserved. The port hole hard-top is present, and the white soft top is in good condition, with the rear window showing some of the typical light scratching on it. The Flame Red interior has been well restored showing very light wear. A modern AM/FM digital radio has been professionally installed in the factory location to add some background music to the top-down cruising. The trunk has been nicely restored and includes a period correct spare tire. Under the hood sits the optional 312 V-8 245-hp with Holley four-barrel carburetor backed by the Ford-O-Matic two-speed automatic. While an older restoration, the engine bay presents as well detailed and maintained. Correct FOMOCO components are present including duplication of factory markings and paint marks. The undercarriage has evidence of having been undercoated some time ago in the cars past. The undercarriage is unrestored but presents as well maintained with newer shocks, fuel tank, fresh dual exhaust, new brake lines, and new emergency brake hardware. The rear spring shackles have been flipped which is a common modification on these baby birds to give the tail end a slight forward rake. The car rolls on a set of steel wheels that are covered by black center wire wheel covers that include center spinner assemblies. The wheels are wrapped in wide white wall bias ply tires. This is truly a sharp car that is finished in a stunning color combination. The look of these Thunderbirds remain timeless, exuding class and sophistication. Driving a 1957 T-Bird is an experience like no other, as these cars ride like a dream. The V8 provides plenty of pep for cruising the boulevard, or longer trips on the highway. This car has lots of potential for outstanding top-down driving on day or weekend trips. These cars are fun to show as they attract plenty of attention on the showfield. Please call if interested or e-mail with specific questions. Thank you for looking.