1957 Ford Thunderbird

Registration No: 699 YUN
Chassis No: D7FH393838
MOT: Exempt

• Fitted with the optional 312 cu.in. V8 engine and porthole hard top
• Front disc brake conversion and benefits from recent recommissioning work
• Offered with Swansea V5C, original handbook and tonneau cover

Conceived to steal sales away from Chevrolet’s successful Corvette, Ford’s Thunderbird range would progress through no less than 11 generations with a combined production total in excess of 4.4 million units. The first-generation cars hit the streets in October 1954 and, while it had been created in direct response to the racy Corvette, Ford's emphasis was more on comfort than overt sportiness. A true piece of automotive Americana, it was immortalised by the Beach Boys' hit song Fun Fun Fun and the design’s kerb appeal is perhaps best encapsulated by the lengthy list of celerity owners including Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. Subtle styling revisions for the 1957 model year included a revised front bumper, larger grille, tailfins and rear lights with relocation of the spare wheel to the trunk. Over 21,000 examples were sold and the 1957 model was destined to be the last two-seater Ford produced until the 1980s.

Fitted with the optional 312 cu.in. V8 engine as opposed to the standard 292 cu.in. offering, 699 YUN is finished in white with red interior and comes complete with its ‘porthole’ hardtop. Riding on wire wheels the car also has a front disc brake conversion and benefits from recent recommissioning work. Imported to the UK in 2012 it is now said to be in “excellent” condition as regards its engine, interior, bodywork, paintwork and automatic transmission. Offered with Swansea V5C, original handbook and tonneau cover, this is an ideal opportunity to acquire one of the most sought after Thunderbird models in perhaps the best colour combination.