When GIs who fought in the European Theater of World War II returned home, they brought with them fond memories of the British two-seaters that were a common sight over there. Some even managed to buy some and have them shipped home. It was clear to Detroit that there just might be a market for an American-made version of the famed two-seater open car. The two most famous of these were the MG-TC (and the later TD) and the incredibly handsome Jaguar XK-120. Kaiser introduced the famed Kaiser-Darrin in the early 50s and Chevrolet would follow next with the legendary Corvette. Ford was not blind to Chevrolets new car but chose to develop a car along a different path. It was decided their car would be made of metal instead of fiberglass; that it would be powered by a V-8 engine unlike the Corvettes Blue Flame Six; and that it would feature roll-down windows and an optional hardtop, unlike the Corvettes snap-on curtains. They further decided that it would, as much as possible, utilize the same tooling and parts interchangeability with the big Fords of that era. This Magnificent Classic is finished in Prized Thunderbird French Grey with a Stunning Contrasting Red Interior and Black Hartz Canvas Softtop. Professional Frame off Rotisserie Nut and Bolt Restoration including Exterior, Interior, Brightwork, Mechanics, Wire Wheels, and more. Total investment exceeds $100k. It comes with a comprehensive complement of amenities including: Ford Manual 3-Speed Transmission Overdrive (4th Gear for Touring) o Master Guide Power Steering o Extremely Rare with Manual Transmission Sure Swift Power Brakes o Upgraded to Disc Brakes (Major Enhancement) Seat Belts Telescopic Lifeguard Steering Wheel o Fully Adjustable Reduced Size Steering Wheel o Easier Entry and Exit for Large Person Full instrumentation Factory Tachometer Directional Signals Magicaire Heating and Defrost System Air Conditioning o Ice Cold AM-FM-CD Sound System o CD Changer Located in Trunk Electric Clock Cigar Lighter (Unused) Black Hartz Canvas Soft Top Chrome Side View Mirror Wing Windows Rear Fender Skirts with Fender Shields Wide Whitewall Radial Tires Windshield Washers Beautiful Kelsey Hayes Styled Wire Wheels THUNDERBIRD V-8 Engine o Beautiful Chrome Engine Dress-Up Kit o 312 Cubic Inch Displacement o 225 Horsepower o 9:1 Compression Ratio o 3.80 X 3.44 Inch Bore & Stroke o Four Barrel Carburetion o Dual Exhaust System Through Rear Bumper Ports TBird Scripted Floor Mats 12 Volt Electrical System with Alternator Upgrade o Significant Improved Reliability & Improved Lighting for Evening Tours Full " Flow Oil Filter Electric Fuel Pump o Improved Reliability and Minimize Vapor Leaks Trunk Jack Side Opening Fresh Air Vents 102 Inch Wheelbase 185 Inch Length Highly Detailed Engine Compartment and Undercarriage o Show Quality Owners Manual and Shop Manual This Magnificent Thunderbird finished in Prized Thunderbird French Grey with a Stunning Red Interior is an Absolute Pleasure to Drive and garners all the oohs and aahs anytime out. Many Baby Bird aficionados consider the 57 to be the Most Beautiful, Most Desirable, and the Very Last of the Baby Birds of the era. It is Pristine Throughout. Ready for Show and Tour! It is one of the rare and Very Best!
