Vehicle Description
Conceived in response to Chevrolet's Corvette sports car, the Ford
Thunderbird debuted in October 1954 as one of the very first models
to feature Ford's new overhead-valve V8 engine. As a counterpoint
to the overtly sporty Corvette, the Thunderbird offered more
equipment and luxury, intending to appeal to image-conscious
younger customers. Ford's product planners hit the market dead
center and over 16,000 Thunderbirds were assembled in the 1955
model year, beating the Corvette hands down in the sales war thanks
to its superior V8 engine and greater refinement.
A low, sleek two-seater, the Thunderbird offered amenities not
found on the Corvette - initially, at least - with comfort and
convenience options tailored to an affluent market. Alterations for
the '56 season included the relocation of the spare wheel to the
outside the trunk in 'Continental Kit' style, while a 312ci, 215bhp
Thunderbird Special V8 was added to the option sheet. A more
thorough re-style for 1957 featured a longer tail section with
prominent fins. This provided greater luggage space while enabling
the spare wheel to be relocated to the boot, thus improving
handling. Performance options include the twin-carb "E-Code" and
even the "F-Code" with a Paxton supercharger. Despite its success,
the original Thunderbird concept was soon abandoned and a larger -
and slower - four-seat version was introduced for 1958, a move that
turned the early two-seater cars into collectors' items seemingly
overnight.
Completed at the Dearborn, Michigan Ford plant, this 1957
Thunderbird E-Code represents the final production year of the
classic, two-seat Thunderbird, featuring the larger 312ci OHV V8
engine topped with the optional twin Holley carburetors and rated
for a healthy 270 horsepower. Of the 21,380 Thunderbirds produced
in 1957, just 1,449, less than 7%, were ticked with the E-Code
option. Its 312-cubic-inch V-8 produced an impressive 270
horsepower thanks in part to dual four-barrel Holley carburetors.
Here, it is mated to a Ford-O-Matic two speed automatic
transmission. The engine compartment is beautifully detailed with
an under-hood dress-up kit, which includes a distinctive chromed
valve covers and chromed oil breather cap, correct domed E code air
cleaner, Ford script hoses, correct clamps, proper assemble
markings, original style decals, and even a "tar top" battery
showcase the quality of the restoration.
The sporting Ford was the recipient of an award winning full
restoration by marque specialist Hill's Automotive of Racine, Ohio.
The appealing livery of Dusk Rose with a Colonial White removable
hardtop is the original color scheme per the car's data tag, as is
the authentically restored Colonial White vinyl interior. Cabin
amenities present on this example include power steering and
windows and a power seat and, for entertainment, a Town & Country
radio set into the engine-turned dashboard. The car features two
sets of rolling stock, a gorgeous set of Kelsey-Hayes-style chrome
wire wheels wrapped in wide whitewall radial tires, as well as a
set of proper original steel wheels with restored wheel covers and
bias ply whitewalls for show.
A frequent concours competitor, the car has been shown extensively
at events around the country, including the Milwaukee Masterpiece,
Meadowbrook Concours, Ault Park Concours, Keenland Concours and has
achieved Senior status with the Vintage Thunderbird Club
International (VTCI) as well as the Classic Thunderbird Club
International (CTCI).
Although the supercharged "F-Code" Thunderbird is the rarest and
most powerful model, the twin-four-barrel E-Code is considered by
many to be the better driver's car. Less temperamental and easier
to drive, it offers turn-key convenience with faithful reliability.
Painstakingly restored in the oh so Fifties original color scheme
of Dusk Rose and Colonial White with Colonial White vinyl interior,
it has been meticulously maintained. All in all, this E-Code T-Bird
represents an excellent opportunity to acquire an iconic classic
that is equally at home on the concours lawn or the open road.
Offers welcome and trades considered
