1957 Ford Thunderbird

OVERVIEW

This 1957 Ford Thunderbird was reportedly put through a $40,000+ frame-off restoration and has been with the seller for seven years. It is powered by a rebuilt 312ci Y-block Ford V8 backed by a rebuilt Ford-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission. Features include power steering and brakes, a removable hardtop with portholes, a manual convertible top, air conditioning, a telescoping steering column, hidden Alpine AM/FM stereo, rear wheel skirts, and chrome wire wheels. Finished in Raven Black over a Raven Black and Colonial White vinyl interior, this Thunderbird is available now and comes with a reproduction owner’s manual, tech tips guide, shop manual, receipts, car cover, wheeled hardtop storage caddy, and a clear title.

EXTERIOR – FEATURES

During the restoration completed in 2004, the exterior was finished in Raven Black. Features include chrome bumpers, hood scoop, fender-mounted antenna, dual rearview mirrors, manual fresh air vents, white removable hardtop, tan manual folding vinyl top, color-matched rear wheel skirts, and rear bumper-exit exhaust outlets. The seller states that no rust, scratches, or dents are present.

EXTERIOR - WHEELS AND TIRES

A set of 14-inch Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels is wrapped in 205/75/R14 whitewall radial tires. The seller states that the tread is like new, but the age of the tires is unknown.

INTERIOR – FEATURES

The bench seat is upholstered in Raven Black vinyl with Colonial White vinyl inserts. Features include power steering and brakes, telescoping steering column, air conditioning, floor-mounted automatic transmission shifter, manual windows, black vinyl padded dashboard, tonneau cover, AM radio, and glovebox-mounted Alpine AM/FM stereo.

INTERIOR – GAUGES

The instrument panel consists of a 140-mph speedometer, 5,000-rpm tachometer, clock, and gauges for the fuel level and coolant temperature. With 1,000 miles logged during current ownership, the odometer reads 55,164 miles, which the seller reports to be accurate.

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

Power is provided by the reportedly original 312ci Y-block Ford V8 and backed by a Ford-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission. The seller states that the engine and transmission were rebuilt during the restoration. Engine bay features include finned aluminum valve covers, chrome air cleaner, and electronic ignition. The twin electric cooling fans and electric carburetor choke were installed in September 2018. A new Holley four-barrel carburetor accelerator pump, power valve, and gaskets were installed in June 2021. An oil change was completed and the engine was equipped with a new battery in April 2023. A video of the engine running can be seen below.

UNDERCARRIAGE

This Thunderbird was factory-equipped with an independent front suspension and a solid rear drive axle. Braking is provided by power four-wheel drums.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

The seller will include a reproduction owner’s manual, tech tips guide, shop manual, receipts, car cover, and wheeled hardtop storage caddy with the purchase of the vehicle.