312ci V8/Painstakingly Restored/Both Tops/Straight Panels

1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

The Thunderbird and the Corvette have a long and sorted history, with both initially competing for the same customer space. Eventually the Corvette went to racing, and the Thunderbird became the boulevard king. The ultimate getaway car from the kids with only 2 seats, as well as the option to have a hardtop traveler, or a convertible cruiser, it became the "it" car for mid-1950s suburbia.

If you're looking for a sweet 50s-era classic that's valuable, fun to drive and has the ability to turn Main Street into an instant classic car show then this is "it" for you. The consigner builder of this car put his heart and soul into this restoration, leaving virtually no stones unturned. A labor of love that took all but 10 years, along with the post restoration years of enjoyment leaving the kids behind and motoring with just him and his wife, they created many memories with the fruits of his labors.

Exterior
Micrometer tolerance straight rust free, blemish free steel panels covered in Ford Flame Red, clad the exterior of this car. A matching hardtop with porthole window caps the interior passenger compartment. All brightwork, and chrome bumpers are in excellent condition. 14-inch chromed wire wheels with T bird spinners are seen all around, and sport fat white sidewall striped tires. A white canvas convertible top in new condition can be popped if you get caught in a shower while motoring with the top down. All plastic windows in the top are clear and blemish free.

Interior
Mid-fifties design drips from the interior, with a red, red, red, electrically operated bench seat spanning from door to door. A red vinyl padded dash, has more beautiful curves than a centerfold model, and is highlighted with all correct gauges, levers, and knobs, all within a brushed machined aluminum front dash. Plush red carpeting with Thunderbird carpet floor mats, looks like it has never seen the underside of a shoe. Door panels show power window, and seat controls, as well as wind wings added to the doors. A sweeping front windshield reminiscent of future bubble tops wraps the driver's compartment. Trunk is adorned with a typical Ford plaid trunk liner, and it is in really good condition.

Drivetrain
The standard 1957 Thunderbird engine was a 292 cubic inch V-8, rated at 212 horsepower and supplied only with the 3-speed manual transmission. This car, however, has the optional 312ci 4bbl V8 producing 245hp and is mated to a Ford-O-Matic 3-speed automatic. On the back is a Ford 9-inch rear with 3.10 gears. We note a chrome air cleaner assembly atop the 4bbl carburetor, finned Thunderbird rocker covers, power brake booster and power steering. All presenting well and ready to wow the crowd.

Undercarriage
Up on the lift plenty of nice black undercoating on the floorpans, rockers and wheel wells. A strong stable X frame which is also rust free holds up the car with ease. 4 wheel power drum brakes are seen, on all corners, and a new aluminum radiator has been installed as well as a new fuel tank. Stainless steel exhaust evacuates engine gasses quicker than a passenger elevator in a high rise during a fire! Independent coil sprung front suspension and leaf springs for the back are there for the ride.

Drive-Ability
Just a well done with passion car, and it drives as such. Fires right up, and handles nicely, curses smoothly, and has nice peppy acceleration. Stopping is no problem with the power brakes, and all functions are working as they should.

If you want to be the star of that Main Street impromptu car show, this award-winning, largely-original Thunderbird, backing a hot 312 cubic inch V8 with a Ford-O-Matic 3-speed, is definitely your kind of classic! A consigner restored, and driven here from out of state, actually brought a tear to his eye upon dropping the car off. Guaranteed to turn your face into a smile when you are behind the wheel of this endearing automobile classic.

VIN DECODE
D7FH142857
D-312ci V8 245hp 4bbl
7-1957
F-Dearborn, MI Assy Plant
H-Thunderbird
142857-Sequential Unit Number

WARRANTY TAG
BODY 40-Thunderbird
COLOR JJ-Willow Green
TRIM XM-Cumberland & Willow

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 600 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.