We are no strangers to sellers making bold claims at Barn Finds, and the merits of each must be assessed to determine whether they are justified. This 1957 Ford Thunderbird is a perfect example of that philosophy. Its presentation is impressive following a recent restoration. The big question is whether it achieves the “show quality” condition as stated by the seller. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the T-Bird listed here on Craigslist in Marietta, Georgia. You could take it home once you have handed the seller $51,950.

Ford’s Thunderbird hit its stride in 1957. After a disappointing sales slump in 1956 compared to its first year, the volume rebounded to a new record of 21,380 vehicles. It was the final year for the First Generation T-Bird, and our feature car demonstrates that it went out in style. The seller claims that this classic has undergone a restoration that included its panels, paint, brightwork, interior, and mechanical components. That doesn’t leave many items untouched, augering well for potential buyers. The Raven Black paint reflects its background like a mirror, and any flaws are too minor to reveal themselves in the supplied photos. Black paint is one of the best shades for revealing panel bumps and bruises, but I see nothing worth mentioning. There is no evidence of rust, and although it isn’t shown, the matching “porthole” hardtop is said to present as nicely as the rest of the exterior. There is no soft-top, but the seller includes an immaculate tonneau in Red that matches the interior trim. The chrome and glass are spotless, while the wire wheels and narrow whitewalls look right at home on this classic.

Contrasting this T-Bird’s Black exterior is its interior trimmed in Code XH Flame Red. Once again, there are no problems or shortcomings to report beyond some slight wrinkles in the carpet on the side of the transmission tunnel. It is possible that judicious stretching may eliminate the problem, although it is barely noticeable. I believe the fit of the speaker grille on the dash may be “out” slightly, but it is another item that might respond positively to minor tweaking. The seller confirms that the dash houses a retro-style Bluetooth stereo, although locating a factory radio to reverse that change shouldn’t be difficult. This interior isn’t highly equipped by modern standards, but the “Lifeguard” wheel, Magicaire Heating and Defrost System, windshield washers, electric clock, and Thunderbird rubber mats are all welcome features.

The first owner decided to pass on the entry-level 292ci V8 when ordering this T-Bird. Instead, they opted for the 312ci unit generating 245hp and 332 ft/lbs of torque. Shifting duties fall to a three-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission, while the power-assisted steering and brakes reveal the company’s desire to market these vehicles as Personal Luxury Cars. Many people have compared the Thunderbird to Chevrolet’s Corvette from the same period, although this isn’t a fair strategy. The ‘Vette is a hard-edged sports car, while Ford focused on comfort. The two cars share the same wheelbase, although the T-Bird is longer, wider, and considerably heavier than the Corvette. It is unclear whether this car is numbers-matching, but the engine bay presents as beautifully as you might expect from a recently restored classic wearing the optional $25 Dress-Up Kit. The seller describes this car as a pleasure to drive, a claim that I find readily believable.

It will be fascinating to gauge reader opinions on this 1957 Ford Thunderbird. It undoubtedly makes a positive first impression, and examining the supplied images reveals no apparent flaws that cause concern. Its few minor modifications could be easily reversed if the buyer wished to achieve a totally authentic look. The seller’s price isn’t chicken feed and only an in-person inspection would determine whether it is justified. Are you tempted to take this one further by negotiating a closer look? I would hardly blame you if you did.