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 Raven Black with a Contrasting Red Interior, Red Tonneau, and Black Port Hole Hardtop. Restoration included Exterior, Interior, Brightwork, and Mechanics. It comes with a comprehensive complement of amenities including: Ford Automatic Transmission Floor-mounted Locking Button Shift Selector Low and Drive Range Master Guide Power Steering Sure Swift Power Brakes Seat Belts Telescopic Lifeguard Steering Wheel Fully Adjustable Full Instrumentation Factory Tachometer Directional Signals Magicaire Heating and Defrost System AM-FM Radio with USB Port and Bluetooth Electric Clock Cigar Lighter (Unused) Raven Black Port Hole Hardtop Dual Chrome Side View Mirrors Wing Windows Rear Fender Skirts with Fender Shields Whitewall Radial Tires Windshield Washers Beautiful Wire Wheels THUNDERBIRD V-8 Engine Chrome Engine Dress-Up Kit 312 Cubic Inch Displacement 225 Horsepower 9:1 Compression Ratio 3.80 X 3.44 Inch Bore & Stroke Four Barrel Carburetion Dual Exhaust System Through Rear Bumper Ports TBird Scripted Floor Mats 12 Volt Electrical System Significant Improved Reliability & Improved Lighting for Evening Tours Full " Flow Oil Filter Radiator Overflow Accessory Trunk Jack Side Opening Fresh Air Vents 102 Inch Wheelbase 185 Inch Length Highly Detailed Engine Compartment and Undercarriage Show Quality Owners Manual Beautiful Red Tonneau This Magnificent Thunderbird finished in Prized Thunderbird Raven Black with 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 Excellent Throughout.