.jpg?w=1)
Details
1957 FORD THUNDERBIRD CONVERTIBLE WITH REMOVABLE HARDTOP
Registration No. Not UK registered.
Chassis No. D 7 FH 306 455
Engine No. Not known
Yellow with black and white interior
Engine: V8, overhead valve, 312 cu. in., 198bhp at 4,400rpm; Gearbox: Fordomatic 3-speed; Suspension: front, upper and lower A arms, coil springs, rear, live axle, semi-elliptical leaf springs; Brakes: four wheel drum. Left hand drive.
The classic Thunderbird was introduced in 1955, and was Ford's response to the Chevrolet Corvette that appeared in 1953. Although it had the same wheelbase (102 in.) as its rival, the Thunderbird was designed to be more comfortable and luxurious than GM's Corvette. Ford knew that the two seater V8 was going to attract a wider audience than the Corvette's racing/performance oriented market. The Thunderbird design incorporated Ford features found on other models to create a product recognition with the hope of encouraging sales of other Ford cars as well. The universal appeal of the styling made the Thunderbird an instant success and the 1955 model out-sold the more expensive Corvette by 24 to 1!
The Thunderbird was named after the god of rain and prosperity worshipped by America's South West Indians. It was built with a sturdy steel body, roll-up windows, either a hard top or snug fitting fold down soft top, or both and a strong Mercury V8 engine. With European style and American comfort, convenience and go, it was no wonder the Thunderbird proved to be irresistible.
The early history of this example is not known, but paperwork with this car includes a number of old American title documents. These confirm that the Thunderbird was owned by a Mrs Anna Rimmer in Burbank California from at least 1984 to 1989, when it was purchased by the current owner.
Cosmetically the condition is fair to good, as its paintwork, chrome and interior are tidily presented, however the car appears to have only been repainted and basically refurbished rather than completely restored. Mechanically, Christie's has not had the opportunity to start or run the car, and so can only advise that it be carefully and thoroughly checked/serviced prior to any road use. It has also been noted that whilst it has a hardtop, there is no convertible hood with the car.
Also with the car are an original handbook, Ford Safety statement, and unused Delivery Condition report.
Registration No. Not UK registered.
Chassis No. D 7 FH 306 455
Engine No. Not known
Yellow with black and white interior
Engine: V8, overhead valve, 312 cu. in., 198bhp at 4,400rpm; Gearbox: Fordomatic 3-speed; Suspension: front, upper and lower A arms, coil springs, rear, live axle, semi-elliptical leaf springs; Brakes: four wheel drum. Left hand drive.
The classic Thunderbird was introduced in 1955, and was Ford's response to the Chevrolet Corvette that appeared in 1953. Although it had the same wheelbase (102 in.) as its rival, the Thunderbird was designed to be more comfortable and luxurious than GM's Corvette. Ford knew that the two seater V8 was going to attract a wider audience than the Corvette's racing/performance oriented market. The Thunderbird design incorporated Ford features found on other models to create a product recognition with the hope of encouraging sales of other Ford cars as well. The universal appeal of the styling made the Thunderbird an instant success and the 1955 model out-sold the more expensive Corvette by 24 to 1!
The Thunderbird was named after the god of rain and prosperity worshipped by America's South West Indians. It was built with a sturdy steel body, roll-up windows, either a hard top or snug fitting fold down soft top, or both and a strong Mercury V8 engine. With European style and American comfort, convenience and go, it was no wonder the Thunderbird proved to be irresistible.
The early history of this example is not known, but paperwork with this car includes a number of old American title documents. These confirm that the Thunderbird was owned by a Mrs Anna Rimmer in Burbank California from at least 1984 to 1989, when it was purchased by the current owner.
Cosmetically the condition is fair to good, as its paintwork, chrome and interior are tidily presented, however the car appears to have only been repainted and basically refurbished rather than completely restored. Mechanically, Christie's has not had the opportunity to start or run the car, and so can only advise that it be carefully and thoroughly checked/serviced prior to any road use. It has also been noted that whilst it has a hardtop, there is no convertible hood with the car.
Also with the car are an original handbook, Ford Safety statement, and unused Delivery Condition report.
Special notice
VAT rate of 5% is payable on hammer price plus buyer's premium