Created as a counterpoint to the Chevrolet Corvette, the Ford Thunderbird was introduced in 1954 and became a sensation when the first official commercial release in 1955 sold 16,000 units.
A Ford Thunderbird is being showcased at the Mecum’s Dallas auction later this month. The car has a like-new appearance after undergoing meticulous restoration.
One of the standout features of this car is the original 3-speed manual Borg Warner T85 gearbox. According to the announcement, less than “0.02% of total 1957 Thunderbirds” had this type of gearbox, making the auctioned car extremely rare.
Longtime Ford Thunderbird enthusiasts will recognize that the car is not completely original, with the Azure Blue exterior paint only appearing from the 1958 model year. However, this color helps the classic chrome grille and other details stand out.
In addition, the original Royal Blue Stayfast soft top has been restored to like-new condition. The wheels are also equipped with vintage-style rims and white BF Goodrich Silvertown tires.
The blue tone continues to dominate the cabin, with the interior covered in Dresden and Starmist Blue, featuring “precision embossed lines”. The restored 1957 Thunderbird also features air conditioning, seat belts, and a “radio with the ability to search for signals in regional and national stations”.
Powering this vehicle is a rebuilt 5.1L V8 engine paired with a dual quad carburetor setup. According to reports, the system can generate a maximum output of 270 horsepower.
Although there is no estimate on the auction price yet, the intact details of the 1957 Ford Thunderbird are sure to attract a lot of attention.
Source: Carscoops
Someone’s School: Surprisingly, Gifted with an Exquisite Car Collection Worth at Least 10 Million USD.
Nicolas and Lee Begovich, the Vice President of Hughes Aircraft, have generously donated a collection of 15 classic sports cars to CSUF. These cars, gathered since the 1950s, are valued at no less than $10 million. Most of them were purchased directly from the factories and have been meticulously preserved ever since.