1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

The 1957 Ford models were introduced on October 1st of 1956, including the new Thunderbird, which was 6.1 inches longer and featured updated styling. Design cues such as the canted fins helped bring it in-line with the rest of the Ford lineup. With the increase in size, Ford designers were able to return the spare tire to the trunk. 14-inch wheels were added giving it a lower riding stance. Inside, there was a new dash and updated upholstery, in addition to a Volumatic radio that rose in volume as the car's speed increased and the Dial-O-Matic power seat that returned to its rearmost position when the ignition was turned off. The seats returned to its pre-seat position when the ignition was started. Base price was $3,408 with well-optioned cars selling for over $4,000.

One of the engine options available was the 312 cubic-inch 'E-code' variant that offered 275 horsepower through a modified Holley dual four-barrel setup borrowed from the 1956 Lincoln. The final 1957 was powered on December 13th of that year.

Of the 21,380 examples produced this year, just 977 were fitted with the 'E-code' option, including this example finished in Dusk Rose with a Colonial White interior. This car has been treated to a high-quality restoration utilizing original and NOS parts. It is even equipped with the accessory plug-in cigarette lighter droplight and Remington shaver. In 2007 it received an AACA National First Prize and has traveled less than 50 miles since it was restored. It has power steering, brakes, windows, and seats, as well as the Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission.

In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the St. John's auction presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $60,000-$80,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $60,500 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2012