Two-seater Ford Thunderbirds made a huge splash between 1955 and 1957. Their appeal and name recognition continue almost seventy years later. Porthole windows in the '56 and '57 removable hardtops remain a styling icon. The one-year-only fins on the '57 'Birds make them unique within this fine flock.
This factory-ordered Flame Red 1957 Ford Thunderbird with its Colonial White top is one of the more striking 1957 color combinations and who can deny the attraction of a red T-Bird' The factory Flame Red interior is another big plus. The appeal of this Thunderbird extends under the faux hood scoop, because this Ford sports a factory E-code dual four-barrel 312-cu.in. V-8 model. Both the soft-top and removable hardtop come with the car, which was professionally repainted in 2020. The leading E in the VIN of this Thunderbird corresponds with the E-code 312-cu.in. version of Ford's Y-block V-8, with its dual four-barrel carburetors that gave it a factory rating of 270 horsepower. The unique double dome air cleaner is an easy way to spot the dual carbs. - the engine is correct for the car, but he isn't sure if it is the original engine. - it starts with the choke and full throttle, adding that, after a couple cranks, it fires right up, idles well, and doesn't smoke.- the three-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly with no clunks or thumps. - the engine and transmission were completely resealed by a Ford Thunderbird specialist in 2020. The seller points out minor differential weeping, but no drips. This T-Bird was totally repainted its original Flame Red (code V) color in 2020 due to brake fluid dripping on it from a car stored above it. This was a body-on paint job done by a professional restoration shop. The repaint did not require any rust or body repairs. The E part of the VE paint code signifies a Colonial White removable hardtop. The top did not require repainting, who classifies the paint condition as excellent with no swirls or blemishes noted. All door seals were replaced when the car was painted. The convertible soft top is in excellent working condition . Glass is rated as good with a few minor scratches. The chrome on the upper rear bumper has some blemishes (see close-up photos), as does the windshield trim. - Code XH indicates that the original interior trim was Flame Red and that's present today. - the upholstery was redone in the past, but he can't say when. What he does say is that it's in excellent condition with no tears or cracks. The seat adjuster works as expected. The carpet and headliner are both in good condition . The window felts and related parts were replaced when the car was painted. The original Town and Country radio is out of the car, but is included with the sale. A modern radio is currently in use.- there are no known gauge problems, except that the clock doesn't work. - A prior owner had the front suspension at least partially rebuilt . The lower control arms appear to have been replaced.- the shocks and bushings are in good condition with no leaks. The brake master cylinder was replaced in 2020 and the seller reports no brake problems. The steering is unassisted, but the car steers straight with no pulling or play. Tire age is unknown, but the seller estimates 50 percent tread left, although he advises replacement tires for any extended trips. The full wheel covers and body-colored wheels show no curb rash in the photos. A bill of sale will also be included. I have partial records from previous owners dating back to 2000. Records for the recent paint and mechanical work are included. This bright red 1957 Ford Thunderbird is just waiting for its next owner to have fun, fun, fun.
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1957 Ford Thunderbird with a Dual-Quad Intake - Factory E-Code