For 1956, changes to the popular Thunderbird were subtle but
significant-distinctive porthole windows were added to the
removable hardtop, and the electrics moved from a 6-volt to a
12-volt system. After just three years of the original two-seat
design, Ford would reshape the Thunderbird into a larger
four-seater for 1958. Despite its brief production run, the early
"Baby Bird" vastly outsold the Corvette, and the Thunderbird model
would continue to be a popular collectible in the decades
since.
This 1957 Baby Bird was completed on the 25th of February 1957 at
the Dearborn, Michigan plant and dispatched to the New York area
for sale. Extensively equipped from the factory, it features the
"D-Code" 312 cu-in V8 producing 245 horsepower, a Fordomatic
automatic transmission, Master-Glide power steering, Swift Sure
power brakes, Power-Lift Windows, a four-way power front bench
seat, back-up lights, and engine dress-up kit, along with both the
hard and soft convertible tops. The car was the subject of a
nut-and-bolt, rotisserie restoration in its original factory livery
of Corinthian White over Pleated Flame (red) vinyl upholstery,
paired with a matching body-color hard top and a black canvas soft
top. The restoration also included the tasteful addition of
VintageAir air conditioning and an upgraded AM/FM vintage radio for
modern touring comfort.
Throughout, the car presents beautifully with no detail overlooked,
displaying tidy brightwork and chrome Kesley Hayes-style wire
wheels with spinner hubcaps, a vibrant interior, and a spotless
engine compartment complete with the chrome engine dress-up kit.
With the odometer showing a scant 92 miles traveled since its
restoration, this Thunderbird is poised to be a standout on the
concours field, a favorite at local cruises, or a cherished
centerpiece in a collection focused on the most iconic designs to
emerge from the American Jet Age.
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