When Ford’s Thunderbird debuted at Detroit in February 1954, this stylish, sporty and well- equipped two-seater created an all-new personal car market, one that continues strongly today. While somewhat similar to Chevrolet’s Corvette, the Thunderbird offered a more sophisticated and powerful, steel-bodied alternative to Chevrolet’s fiberglass-bodied competitor. Low, sleek and sporty, the T-Bird included a powerful V-8 engine, available automatic transmission, removable hardtop and a wide array of standard and optional features. Confirming the T-Bird’s successful formula, 16,155 were sold for 1955, versus just 700 Corvettes. Mildly updated for 1956 and further refined for 1957, the Thunderbird saw rising sales to 21,380 cars that year, the last model year for the two- seat Thunderbird until the retro-styled 2002-04 models. Today, the original, two-seat 1955-57 “Little Birds” stand as automotive and cultural icons, celebrated in 2005 as part of a popular USPS commemorative stamp issue. Today, these iconic, first-generation Thunderbirds are great weekend show and touring cars with plenty of comfort and cruising performance, always drawing admirers everywhere they appear. Exemplifying a Thunderbird performance legend, this factory E-code, dual-quad 1957 Thunderbird benefits handsomely from a frame-up restoration in Raven Black, complemented by a striking red interior and white porthole hardtop. Residing within a detailed engine bay, the dual-quad 312/270 HP Y-block V-8 engine sports an engine dress-up kit and correct details including hoses and clamps. Features, amenities and options include an automatic transmission, Master Guide power steering, Swift Sure power brakes, power windows and a signal-seeking Town & Country radio. The T-Bird rides on a set of new chrome wire wheels, and rear fender skirts are included in the trunk. Sold new at Premier Motors in Cleveland, Ohio, this highly equipped 1957 Ford Thunderbird includes an original window sticker and order spec sheet.
