Styling revisions for 1957, the final model year for the first-generation Thunderbird, included more prominent tail fins leading into larger taillights as well as a revised rear bumper with integrated exhaust outlets. The front bumper was redesigned, a larger grille was introduced, and the spare wheel was relocated inside the trunk. This example was repainted in Inca Gold with a Colonial White hardtop (YE) during the refurbishment. Additional exterior details include a black soft top, a hood scoop,…
Styling revisions for 1957, the final model year for the first-generation Thunderbird, included more prominent tail fins leading into larger taillights as well as a revised rear bumper with integrated exhaust outlets. The front bumper was redesigned, a larger grille was introduced, and the spare wheel was relocated inside the trunk. This example was repainted in Inca Gold with a Colonial White hardtop (YE) during the refurbishment. Additional exterior details include a black soft top, a hood scoop, hooded headlights, faux fender louvers, fender-mounted fresh air vents, a left side-view mirror, and rear fender skirts. Repairs to the soft top were performed in preparation for the sale.
Chrome-finished 14” wire wheels wear faux-knockoff spinners and are mounted with Coker American Classic whitewall tires, and a matching spare is stowed in the trunk. The car is equipped with power-assisted steering as well as front disc and rear drum brakes.
The cabin features a power-assisted bench seat that was reupholstered in pleated Colonial White (XK) vinyl that is joined by a color-coordinated dashboard and door panels. Additional appointments include engine-turned interior trim, a heater, power-operated windows, charcoal carpets, Thunderbird-branded floor mats, a Town Country push-button radio, and a Vintage Air Mark IV air conditioner.
The three-spoke steering wheel features a chrome horn ring and sits ahead of instrumentation consisting of a 140-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and gauges for fuel level and coolant temperature. The five-digit mechanical odometer shows 233 miles, all of which were added under current ownership. Total mileage is unknown. The seller states the speedometer is nonfunctional.
The E-code 312ci V8 is equipped with dual Holley four-barrel carburetors and was factory rated at 270 horsepower. Additional equipment includes finned Thunderbird-branded valve covers and a chrome oil filler cap. An oil change was performed in January 2023.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a three-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission. Additional underside images are viewable in the gallery.
Decoding the reproduction data plate reveals the following information:
Photos of the car during the refurbishment process are provided in the gallery.