From launch for 1955 through 1957, Ford’s sporty, 2-seater Thunderbird far outsold archrival Chevrolet’s early 6-cylinder Corvette and delivered strong performance with a growing array of 292 and 312 CI V-8 powertrains. For 1957, the last model year for the original 2-seater Thunderbird, performance grew with the uprated 245 HP 312 V-8, plus the dual-carbureted E Code version of the 312 V-8, first available in October 1956. Factory-rated at 270 HP, the E Code engine option was quite rare, with only 1,499 Thunderbirds so equipped at the factory.
Benefiting handsomely from restoration by Thunderbird expert Amos Minter of Dallas, Texas, this factory-built “E Bird” was acquired in 2012 by a demanding local collector and Classic Thunderbird Club International (CTCI) member, who had the vehicle sorted and upgraded to concours quality. Finished in its factory-specified Code AA Raven Black paint, including the removable auxiliary hardtop and canvas soft top, the Thunderbird is handsomely complemented by the Body Tag-correct Code XH Flame red interior.
Virtually impeccable throughout, the Thunderbird’s 312 CI E Code engine, engine compartment, underbody, frame, and OEM-type suspension are all consistent with the show-quality exterior and interior of the vehicle. In addition to factory-style inspection stamps and markings Underhood, the Thunderbird’s frame also features its assembly date stencil markings, correctly matching the factory processes followed when the car was first assembled.
Other highlights of this stunning and rare Thunderbird include a floor-shifted Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission, a pushbutton AM radio and trunk-mount antenna, plus full FoMoCo scripted side and hardtop porthole windows, a Solex scripted windshield, and Herculite scripted rear hardtop window. The trunk includes a covered spare wheel/tire, roadside jack and lug wrench. Documents include parts invoices, shipping and import paperwork, technical information and operating instructions, a reproduction 1957 Ford Thunderbird handbook, parts catalogs, an original (print date Sept 1956) Ford Car and Thunderbird shop manual, a 1957 Thunderbird dealer brochure, and more. Offered in outstanding condition throughout, this rare E Code 1957 Ford Thunderbird is ready to collect, show, and enjoy. Appraised value of $195,000 CAD. Canadian tax is not applicable.
