Needs Finishing: Rare 1957 Ford Thunderbird E-Code

It’s easy to understand why many consider the 1957 Thunderbird, the last year of the 2-seater “Baby Bird,” as the best of the 3-year series. There was handsome new rear end styling, a bunch of new paint, interior, and soft top color choices, and the big news: four engine choices. Many consider the optional 312-cubic-inch, 270-horsepower E-Code (with dual four-barrel carburetors) as the most desirable engine choice that year. Of the just over 21,380 Thunderbirds that rolled off the production line in 1957, only 1,499 of those were E-Codes. Here’s one of them that is an interupted restoration project in need of finishing. The seller shares that he is unfortunately  selling it for his brother who recently passed away, and admits that he has limited information about this ’57 E-Code. The ‘Bird is in Sherwood, Oregon, and listed here on craigslist for $30,000. Kudos to rare bird spotter Curvette for sending this one our way!

The seller only includes three photographs taken from the front. I wish there were more images, especially of the data plate that would show that this is a true E-Code. The seller says it’s mostly all there. The windshield and soft top assembly were stolen at some point, but a removable hardtop is included. The 312-cubic-inch engine has been rebuilt, the carburetors restored, and the ‘Bird has a new suspension and brakes. It also appears to have a new radiator. The seller isn’t sure of the transmission type and if it’s been rebuilt or not. He also believes the under carriage and door jambs were powder coated.

It’s hard to assess the condition of the ‘Bird’s primer gray body. Perhaps it was taken care of by the previous owner and is ready for a paint job. There are no photos of the interior, so I don’t know what is and isn’t there. The seller does say that “many interior parts and other miscellaneous new parts are included.” Regarding the asking price of $30,000, it’s in line with what an E-Code in #4 Fair Condition is valued at. Although concours-level E-Codes can reach six figures (the highest documented auction price is $183,000 for a flawless, fully restored example), most fall into the $50,000 to $80,000 price range. So, what do you think? I, as a Baby ‘Bird lover, hopes this rare E-Code Thunderbird’s interrupted restoration can go to a good home and be finished one day.

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