While some enthusiasts prefer originality when searching for a classic, others will compromise if the vehicle in question is in excellent condition. That appears to be the case with this 1957 Ford Thunderbird. Its paint shade might not have graced a T-Bird that year, but its overall presentation makes that forgivable for anyone seeking a tidy driver. It is a turnkey proposition located in an area that is ideal for top-down touring. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mike F. for spotting the Thunderbird listed here on Craigslist in Broomfield, Colorado. You could take it home after handing the seller $35,000. However, the seller might also entertain appropriate trades for an RV.
Ford created the Personal Luxury Car market segment when it released the Thunderbird in 1955, with the First Generation remaining on sale until the end of 1957. Although viewed by some as a direct competitor to the Chevrolet Corvette as a two-seat Convertible, Ford’s focus was firmly on comfort. Our feature car is a final-year example that has obviously undergone a cosmetic refresh. The Metallic Blue paint cloaking its exterior is not an original shade from 1957, and it would require a peek at the Trim Tag to expose the truth. Leaving that lack of originality aside, there is plenty to like about the car’s appearance. The paint holds a healthy shine, with its high flake content sparkling under the direct sunlight in the supplied photos. There are no panel issues, and no evidence or mention of rust. Its location and the fact that the car has been garage-kept for over forty years have undoubtedly helped its cause. The T-Bird ticks two boxes, with the buyer receiving a soft-top and a factory hardtop. The trim and glass look excellent, and the vehicle sits on wire wheels.
The Thunderbird was V8-only territory from Day One, with this car scoring the legendary 292ci Y-Block. This was the entry-level engine in 1957, sending 212hp to the road via a three-speed manual transmission. Performance would have been considered respectable by the standards of the day, but there were more powerful engines available for those willing to splash their cash. The seller indicates that this T-Bird recently received a new fuel tank, while the new aluminum radiator and high-volume water pump should eliminate any temperature issues. They state that the T-Bird isn’t a dragster, but it is a comfortable cruiser that runs and drives well.
This Thunderbird’s interior looks striking, trimmed in Code XK Colonial White. This color perfectly contrasts with the exterior shade, making it another aspect of this classic that would receive positive reviews. The solitary interior image makes it hard to be definitive about the condition, although I see nothing that causes concern. There is no evidence of wear, discoloring, or sun damage. The bright trim is seemingly flawless, and the retro-style stereo will provide tunes on the move for the new owner.
This 1957 Ford Thunderbird isn’t original, but that doesn’t mean that it wouldn’t turn heads wherever it goes. It is an extremely tidy driver-grade classic with no apparent needs. The seller’s price is probably realistic, and their willingness to consider appropriate trades will increase its appeal to some potential buyers. It is worth noting that values have climbed faster than the market average during the past year, which could make it a viable long-term investment candidate. As always, it is best to study the situation before committing the funds for what is essentially a luxury buy, However, it does look promising.
I’d love to have an hour behind the wheel Clarkey. Heavy beasts 3300lbs, but almost 300lb-ft, stick shift, and factory equipped with a lively 3.56 rearend⚙️
I cleaned my glasses, then realized it was the seller’s photos that were fuzzy!
👓
Sweet. I so rarely see pictures of the roadster with the top down. The lines on this car are beautiful. Well worth the ask. But I hear prices are coming down for the 55-57 TBirds?
Even though I am a Corvette sort of fella through and through, I have always been partial to “baby Birds” and this one doesn’t disappoint. The problem is that even as nice as this one is, I have to question the price. I say that because for reasons that I have never fully understood, these little darlings have just never brought good money. (Plus, the fact that the seller has the audacity to ask $2,500.00 more for this than the Pinto advertised elsewhere.) I mean come on folks, what would you rather spend mid 30s for, this or a Pinto?
I love ‘57 Tbirds. I like blue. I particularly like that shade of blue. But not on a
57 Tbird. It looks to be a nice car, but $35k is all the money- and I think that’s being generous.
It’s not the asking price so much it is me only having 1/10th of it.
Clean up that iphone lens before you take any more fuzzy pictures !
Clean up that iphone lens before you take any more fuzzy pictures !
It’s a nice looking 57 Bird, and a three speed to boot. It might be worth the ask, but why three pics of the right side and none of the left side? And like others noted, a clean lens wouldn’t hurt, either.