For the 1955 model year, Ford introduced its answer to Chevrolet's Corvette, the Thunderbird, or the "T-Bird" as it has become known as today. Featuring an all metal body and V-8 engine, unlike Chevrolets 6 cylinder fiberglass Corvette, the T-Bird was built for sporty good looks, but also for comfort. For the 1957 model year, Thunderbird sales increased dramatically with an all new cosmetic design and performance options. Featuring an extended tail end by 6 inches, a new grille and bumpers, the 1957 T-Bird is considered by many to be the most beautiful of all the two seat Thunderbirds. Mechanically, you were able to upgrade the performance by ordering either the E-Code or F-Code engines. The E-Code is an incredible and very rare option increasing the horsepower by a lot. The E-Code features dual four barrel Holley carburetors, increased bore and stroke, higher compression ratio and automatic choke giving the 312 cubic inch Ford Y-Block V-8 enough horsepower to beat Chevrolets fuel injected 283 V-8 by just 2 horsepower. Furthermore buyers were also able to order the performance engines with the optional 3 speed manual transmission and even further overdrive was available for an additional cost. A true performance sports car, the E-Code is one of the coolest 1950's American sports cars ever made.
Offered here is one of the finest and rarest examples of an original 1957 Ford Thunderbird "E-Code" that exists today. Owned by a gentleman here in Connecticut for many many years, this E-Bird has been cherished and very well taken care of. Besides being a true E-Code with the high performance "dual quad" engine, this E-Code is equipped with its original factory 3 speed manual transmission with factory overdrive! This is a true unicorn among Thunderbirds. On top of being such a rare bird, the restoration is wonderful having had a body off restoration some years ago with all the right details down to the firewall stampings and proper radiator hoses. Currently the car wears period chrome wire wheels and original skirts, but it also comes with its factory original steel wheels and "dog dish" hubcaps found only on true performance Birds. Mechanically it runs and drives incredibly well and is ready for the open road or car shows this coming spring. Contact us today for more information.
