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LOT 16

1957 Ford Thunderbird 'E-Code' Chassis no. E7FH334671

Sold for US$56,000 inc. premium
Lot 16

1957 Ford Thunderbird 'E-Code'

1957 Ford Thunderbird 'E-Code'
Chassis no. E7FH334671


312ci OHV V8 Engine
Twin Holley 4-Barrel Carburetors
270bhp at 4,500rpm
Ford-O-Matic Automatic Transmission
Front Independent Suspension – Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Rare and desirable high-performance E-Code
*Finished in Starmist Blue with Raven Black hardtop
*Highly optioned with power amenities
*Classic and elegant V8-powered Americana


THE FORD THUNDERBIRD

Conceived in response to Chevrolet's Corvette sports car, the Ford Thunderbird debuted in October 1954 as one of the very first models to feature Ford's new overhead-valve V8 engine. As a counterpoint to the overtly sporty Corvette, the Thunderbird offered more equipment and luxury, intending to appeal to image-conscious younger customers. Ford's product planners hit the market dead center and over 16,000 Thunderbirds were assembled in the 1955 model year, beating the Corvette hands down in the sales war thanks to its superior V8 engine and greater refinement.

A low, sleek two-seater, the Thunderbird offered amenities not found on the Corvette – initially, at least – with comfort and convenience options tailored to an affluent market. Alterations for the '56 season included the relocation of the spare wheel to the outside the trunk in 'Continental Kit' style, while a 312ci, 215bhp Thunderbird Special V8 was added to the option sheet. A more thorough re-style for 1957 featured a longer tail section with prominent fins. This provided greater luggage space while enabling the spare wheel to be relocated to the boot, thus improving handling. Performance options include the twin-carb "E-Code" and even the "F-Code" with a Paxton supercharger. Despite its success, the original Thunderbird concept was soon abandoned and a larger - and slower - four-seat version was introduced for 1958, a move that turned the early two-seater cars into collectors' items seemingly overnight.

THE CAR OFFERED

Completed at the Dearborn, Michigan Ford plant, this 1957 Thunderbird E-Code represents the final production year of the classic, two-seat Thunderbird, featuring the larger 312ci OHV V8 engine topped with the optional twin Holley carburetors and rated for a healthy 270 horsepower. Of the 21,380 Thunderbirds produced in 1957, just 1,363, or a touch over 6%, were ticked with the E-Code option.

The sporting Ford is presented in beautiful condition inside and out, clearly benefitting from a comprehensive and well-maintained restoration. The appealing livery of Starmist Blue with a Raven Black removable hardtop is the original color scheme per the car's data tag, as is the authentically restored two-tone Dresden/Starmist Blue vinyl interior. Along with its high-performance V8 engine, this car is equipped with power steering, power brakes, power windows, Town & Country radio and wire wheels. A striking example in every regard, one should be very pleased with this rare, beautiful, and highly optioned example of Ford's classic Thunderbird.

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