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1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible For Sale

This 1957 Ford Thunderbird is a remarkably preserved, late-first-generation "Baby Bird" that has spent the last 23 years under the dedicated care of its current family. Finished in its iconic factory-correct combination of Colonial White over a striking Flame Red interior, this final-year two-seater shows 73,282 original miles on the odometer. Power is supplied by its original, all-matching 312 cubic-inch V8 paired with a smooth-shifting Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission.
The car has been expertly dialed-in for trouble-free touring. It benefits from a comprehensive mechanical refreshing that features a completely overhauled braking system, a fresh battery, and the thoughtful addition of an auxiliary electric fuel pump to alleviate common cold-start or vapor lock issues. It rides on highly sought-after 14" chrome Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels wrapped in brand-new Coker Classic wide-whitewall radial tires. This turn-key '57 T-Bird is now offered with a matching Kelsey-Hayes wire spare, a replacement cockpit tonneau cover, a collection of original spare parts, and a significant folder of historical documentation and ownership history.

Exterior & Brightwork

Representing the aesthetic pinnacle of the early Thunderbirds, the 1957 model year introduced a widened front mesh grille, redesigned bumpers, and a lengthened rear decklid sculpted into sharp, sweeping tail fins. This example's Colonial White finish presents beautifully, with deep reflections and straight body panels that accent the car's mid- century contours.
The extensive chrome and brightwork are excellent throughout-including the signature '57 front bumper, faux hood scoop trim, and the iconic dual exhaust ports integrated cleanly through the rear bumper guards. All factory glass, badging, and stainless steel trim pieces are securely affixed and remain in fantastic condition.

Wheels & Tires

The car rolls on a gorgeous set of 14-inch Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels featuring spinner center caps-an upgrade that vastly elevates the vehicle's curbside stance. They are wrapped in brand-new Coker Classic wide-whitewall radial tires, which completely transform the driving experience by providing modern highway tracking and a supple ride while strictly maintaining the period-correct look. A highly unusual and valuable asset, a fifth matching Kelsey-Hayes wire wheel is housed in the trunk as the spare.

Interior & Cabin

The cabin provides a stark, stunning contrast to the crisp white exterior, featuring correct Flame Red vinyl upholstery with pleated seat inserts and embossed aluminum trim spanning the dashboard and door panels.

Seating & Carpeting: The red vinyl bench seat remains firmly bolstered and free of any major wear. Plush, like-new red carpeting lines the footwells and the rear package tray, showing excellent color retention and fitment.

Instruments & Accessories: The body-colored dashboard houses a sweeping 140-mph speedometer flanked by a tachometer, clock, and auxiliary gauges monitoring fuel level and temperature. An original Town and Country AM radio remains fitted in the center stack.

Weather Protection: A custom-made red vinyl cockpit tonneau cover is included, allowing the driver to shield the interior from the elements while keeping the sleek "top-down" look when parked.

Drivetrain & Mechanical Performance

Under the front-hinged hood sits the numbers-matching 312ci Thunderbird V8 engine. The engine bay is exceptionally clean and correctly detailed, framed by the legendary finned aluminum "Thunderbird" valve covers.

The Drive: Power is directed to the rear wheels via a Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission. The car starts effortlessly, idles quietly, and cruises smoothly at modern highway speeds of 65-70 mph with excellent tracking.

Steering & Brakes: Effortless driver inputs are provided by a factory power steering system. The stopping system has been completely gone through, boasting all-new components to guarantee straight, reliable braking under all conditions.

Upgrades: The installation of an electronic fuel pump allows fuel lines to prime instantly, ensuring quick turn-key starts even after the vehicle has sat for extended periods.

History & Inclusions

This Thunderbird is supported by a rich archival history accumulated over the family's 23 years of stewardship. The sale includes a substantial binder containing historical paperwork, ownership records, and service documentation. Additionally, a box of original vintage parts that were replaced during maintenance over the years is included, giving the next owner a highly coveted stash of original components.

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For Sale By Owner Located In Riverside, CA 92503


Trim: For Sale
Body Style: Convertible
Condition: Used
Certified: 0
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Options: AM/FM, Premium Sound System

PHONE: (631) 339-0399

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