BF Classified: D-Code 1957 Ford Thunderbird

Barn Finds may receive compensation from clicks and purchases. Use caution when purchasing vehicles long distance. We recommend Disclosure:may receive compensation from clicks and purchases. Use caution when purchasing vehicles long distance. We recommend inspections before sending money. Seller: Joe W eltner (Contact) Joe W (Contact) Location: Rancho Santa Margarita, California Rancho Santa Margarita, California Mileage: 100,000 Shown 100,000 Shown Chassis #: D7FH203274 D7FH203274 Title Status: Clean Clean Engine: 312 cui V8 312 cui V8 Transmission: Automatic Ford's original two-seat Thunderbird enjoyed a brief three-year production run, and many enthusiasts consider the 1957 model the most attractive and refined of the group. This example adds the desirable D-code 312 V8, an automatic transmission, and recent restoration work to the equation. The seller has listed it exclusively here on Barn Finds in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, with a clean title and an asking price of $50,000. The 1957 model featured a reshaped grille, subtle tailfins, and a lengthened rear deck that let the spare tire fit back in the trunk. It was also the final year before Ford transformed the Thunderbird into a larger four-seat personal luxury car. Ford produced 21,380 examples, making 1957 the most successful year of the original 'Baby Bird' generation. This car retains one of the model's most recognizable accessories: a contrasting white removable hardtop with porthole windows. Decoding the VIN confirms that this Thunderbird left Dearborn with the D-code 312-cubic-inch V8. Equipped with a single four-barrel carburetor, this engine was factory-rated at 245 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. An automatic transmission handles shifting duties, giving the car the relaxed character for which the Thunderbird was designed. The seller doesn't say whether the engine and transmission are original, but the engine compartment maintains a largely period-correct look with finned Thunderbird valve covers and a factory-style air cleaner. The car is said to run and drive well. The seller describes the car as having recently been restored, with new red paint, a new black-and-white interior, fresh carpeting, and a new hardtop headliner. Although the supplied photos are not especially detailed, the body appears straight, the finish displays a deep shine, and the brightwork presents well. Wide-whitewall tires, full wheel covers, rear fender skirts, and the white porthole top complete the classic presentation. The trunk has also been refinished and contains a matching whitewall spare, while the restored cabin retains the Thunderbird's distinctive engine-turned instrument panel and telescoping steering wheel. The seller reports that the Thunderbird drives as it should and lists its mileage at 100,000. There's no word on what documentation is still with the car or details on recent mechanical work, so buyers may want to inspect it. Those questions aside, this Thunderbird combines iconic styling, the stronger D-code engine, and freshly restored cosmetics in a package that appears ready for weekend drives and local shows. The question is, would you drive this T-Bird regularly or keep it tucked safely away in your garage?