1957 Ford Thunderbird "F-Code" — Factory Supercharged
Overview
A no-expense-spared, rotisserie restoration was commissioned in 2016 and carried out by County Corvettes of West Chester, Pennsylvania, with over $200,000 invested in the process. The work is extensively documented through detailed correspondence, photographs, and parts records chronicling each phase of the project. Beginning with a remarkably solid and complete example, the car was stripped to bare metal and meticulously refinished. Every component was addressed with a focus on factory-correct presentation and performance, resulting in a highly accurate and exceptionally well-executed restoration.
At its heart is the original Paxton-McCulloch-supercharged 312-cubic-inch V-8, retaining its ultra-rare “EDB” cylinder heads along with correct carburetion and intake components. Paired with an automatic transmission, the car delivers notably stronger performance than its naturally aspirated counterparts. The interior is finished in the striking factory “Tuxedo” black-and-white color scheme and is complemented by both a black folding soft top and the exceedingly rare “no porthole” hardtop. All instrumentation and accessories—including the radio, heater, wipers, and lighting—have been restored and function as intended. Exceptionally well documented and presented to a high standard throughout, this F-Code Thunderbird stands among the finest examples known today.
Features & Options
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One of just 212 factory-produced “F-Code” supercharged Thunderbirds; one-year-only model
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Retains original Ford Motor Company build sheet showing factory options and delivery to Bender Ford Sales, Syracuse, New York
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Comprehensive rotisserie restoration completed 2016–2018 by County Corvettes (West Chester, Pennsylvania) at a cost exceeding $200,000
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Extensively documented restoration with detailed photos, correspondence, and parts records
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Appraised at $325,000 shortly after completion by marque authority Jerry Schneider
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Powered by original Paxton-McCulloch-supercharged 312 cu-in V-8 with ultra-rare “EDB” cylinder heads
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Correct carburetor and intake manifold; factory-style automatic transmission
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Restored to factory specifications throughout; exceptional attention to detail
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Finished with correct “Tuxedo” black-and-white interior
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Equipped with both black folding soft top and rare “no porthole” hardtop
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Fully functional gauges, radio, heater, wipers, and lighting
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Highly sorted, well-documented example of one of the most desirable first-generation Thunderbirds
Service Records
Ownership History & Provenance
Known Shortcomings
Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the seller. This 1957 Ford "F-Code" Thunderbird shows wear consistent with its age and restored condition according to a seller’s disclosure. Please review the entire document by clicking "Seller's Disclosure" above.
Please click the “Contact Seller” button to reach out with any condition-specific questions. This vehicle is sold where-is, as-is, and bidder is responsible for all due diligence regarding vehicle condition.
Items included in the Sale
- Factory literature (i.e. an owner's manual)
- Build sheet
- Photos from a prior refurbishment or restoration
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