1957 Ford Thunderbird

D7FH109865 Convertible

8 - Cyl.

Automatic

00000000000000000

Gasoline

A1957 red Ford Thunderbird convertible, VIN D7FH109865 with black and white interior is available for sale. To my knowledge, I am the third owner of the vehicle and it was assembled in Dearborn, Michigan on October 2, 1956 and delivered to Decauter, Illinois on October 11. I was told but cannot confirm that the car sat in a barn for 25 years before the second owner purchased it. I purchased the car in Iowa in 1993 and the restoration was completed in June of 1994.The original color was Inca Gold and it came from the factory with a 312 c.i. engine with a four barrel (245 h.p), automatic transmission, a convertible top and power steering. It has no engine dress up kit, hardtop or tonneau cover. Power brakes with front disc brakes, electronic ignition, six bladed fan, auxiliary fan, radiator overflow and air conditioning were all added to improve performance, comfort and reliability. Insulation was installed in the firewall and a "Blanket" was added to the floor under the carpet to reduce interior heat. The wide white radials were recently replaced with new Goodyear narrow whitewall tires and it comes with wire wheels. It also comes with fender skirts and the original delivery invoice plus the shop and electrical manuals. There is a recent Texas State inspection sticker indicating the car passes the safety requirements for travel on state roads. In addition, the car was inspected by a classic car dealer and determined to be in very good condition. The frame has never been touched by rust and the repairs that have been made to the body are still without rust after 14 years. A frame hitch was installed in order to pull a clamshell trailor to transport luggage. A ground up restoration was completed in 1994 with the drivetrain completely rebuilt and all metal and chrome redone. Any weak metal was replaced and the entire process was videotaped with a copy of the tapes included with the purchase. It is a double bumper bolt car that was completed in the early part of the model year in 1956 before Ford Motor Co. made the changes necessary for the holes in the bracket to line up with the bumper. The mechanical condition is excellent, the exterior has no body damage except for some minor paint chips and small scratches from use. It has been driven about 16,000 miles since the major restoration. There is a tear in the seat upholstery (along a seam for easy repair), the convertible top fabric needs to be replaced but the frame and swing arm are in perfect condition. The clock and tachometer are not working and the replacement radio has a loose antenna wire. The heater is disconnected, the wipers are the ineffective vacuum type and it has minor oil leaks as do most of these vintage Birds. Overall, the condition would be described as a "ten footer" looking terrific from a short distance but the paint chips are visible up close. Remember, this car is nearly 55 years old and is not represented as a perfect vehicle. It has been nearly 16 years since it was refurbished and considering these factors, it is a terrific car.It is fun to drive, a head turner and a real value for anyone who wants something exciting that not many other people are enjoying. The car is extremely dependable and most of the miles were accumulated on trips of several hundred miles. Any changes for comfort and reliability described above can be converted back to stock condition with no difficulty. The NADA Guide prices this car at a low retail of $29,925, an average price of $37,960 and a high of $84,800. Someone is going to get a great value by bidding on this car. Terms are cash with the transaction being completed at the Buyer's bank. The Buyer will be responsible for transporting the vehicle but I will consider driving it to the Buyer's city in exchange for the Buyer paying my travel and return expenses. A clear Texas title is the legal proof of ownership and a Bill of Sale will be provided, as well. If you are interested in owning a terrific "Little Bird", please bid on this one. On Feb-22-11 at 22:33:00 PST, seller added the following information:Feb 23, more pictures