Estimate: €25,000-30,000

Sold: €30,641

The Thunderbird was launched in 1955, being Ford's answer to the Chevrolet Corvette, which was having things largely its own way in the rapidly growing market of rich young Americans who wanted a sleek and sporting car. Sales estimates for the first two years of production were far in excess of the predicted figures, trouncing the
Corvette and forcing some dramatic rethinking at General Motors.

Ford, however, deemed that the only modifications that needed to be made to the Thunderbird were safety features like energy absorbing instrument panel padding and safety door latches, plus practical developments that enhanced the car's usability. Other modifications included 'Continental' spare wheel mounting on the boot being removed after 1955and the 12 volt electrics which replaced the six volt system used on the 1955 model.

Finished in the period colour yellow with a black and white interior this 1957 model was the pride of a large car collection in Japan for many years, having previously been comprehensively restored in the United States. Imported in to Europe some 8 years ago the car is supplied with a rare factory hard top as well as the standard soft top. Recently fitted with a new exhaust and re built carburettor.

Described in generally very good order, and very well presented here, this iconic American iron is supplied with Dutch registration papers.