How much did a 1957 Ford Thunderbird cost new?
The 1957 Ford Thunderbird carried a price tag in the low-to-mid three thousands, varying by trim and options. The sticker price reflected its status as Ford's premium two-seat personal-luxury car of the era.
Baseline price and what influenced it
The Thunderbird was offered with a range of options that could shift the final price. Ford published suggested retail prices for different configurations, and dealers adjusted for regional demand and availability.
Note: The numbers below are approximate ranges based on period price lists and collector references; actual dealer prices could vary.
- Base price range: roughly $3,000–$3,500 for the standard Thunderbird in 1957 dollars.
- Performance and feature options: power steering, power brakes, upgraded radios, air conditioning, and interior improvements could add several hundred dollars.
- Luxury packages and trims (such as leather-like interiors or the Town Landau appearance): premium options that could push the final sticker price toward the upper end of the range.
Even with options, the Thunderbird remained priced in the premium segment of 1950s two-seaters, contesting other luxury-branded coupes of the time.
Engine, options, and their price impact
Engine choices
The standard powertrain was a V8 with strong performance for the era; higher-output configurations could add to the price, though the base engine covered most buyers' needs.
Appearance and interior packages
Packages that altered the interior and exterior appearance—such as special trim, leather interiors, and Town Landau styling—added cost and enhanced resale appeal in the period marketplace.
Dealers offered a mix of colors and trims, and the final out-the-door price depended on the combination chosen by the buyer.
Summary
In 1957, a new Ford Thunderbird typically stickered in the low-to-mid three thousands, with options and premium packages able to bring the final price closer to four thousand dollars or more. The car’s pricing reflected its niche as a stylish, two-seat luxury challenger in a burgeoning postwar market.
How many 1957 Thunderbirds still exist in the US?
In total, there were 21,380 Thunderbirds sold in 1957, each with one of three V8 engine options: D-, E- or F-Type. The vast majority were the D-Type V8, while 1,363 were E-Type, and just 197 were F-Type. There are only an estimated 40 F-Types left in existence today.
How much did the original Ford Thunderbird cost?
US$2,944
While only 10,000 were planned, 16,155 cars were sold with a listed retail price of US$2,944 ($34,556 in 2024 dollars) in 1955. The Thunderbird came with a removable fiberglass top as standard equipment, with a fabric convertible top as a commonly specified option.
What is a 1957 Thunderbird worth today?
The value of a 1957 Ford Thunderbird varies significantly, with prices generally ranging from approximately $2,200 for a project car to over $495,000 for a rare, pristine model. A typical example in good condition can be valued around $45,025, though this depends on condition, mileage, and specific options. Specific rare versions, like the E-Code, have a higher average range of about $54,128 to $140,484, while the extremely rare F-Code can be worth significantly more.
Factors that influence value
- Condition: A car's overall condition is the most significant factor. Well-maintained, original, or professionally restored cars command higher prices. Poor condition, extensive rust, or accident history can drastically lower the value.
- Mileage and history: Lower mileage generally increases value. A car with a well-documented history is also more desirable.
- Engine and options: The original engine and specific factory options play a huge role.
- D-Type: The most common engine.
- E-Type: A more powerful V8, generally worth more than the D-Type.
- F-Code: The rarest and most valuable version, featuring a factory-supercharged engine. These are highly sought after by collectors.
- Body style: Convertibles are often more valuable than hardtops.
How to determine your car's value
- Consult online valuation tools: Websites like Hagerty and Classic.com can provide estimated values based on a car's specific details and recent sales data.
- Look at recent sales: Check auction sites and classic car listings on sites like eBay, Cars.com, and Classics on Autotrader to see what similar cars are actually selling for.
How much did a 57 Thunderbird cost new?
Either a manual or automatic transmission was available. All of this was a $340 factory option package on top of the '57 Thunderbird's $2,944 base price, but to the lead-footed T-Bird owner, it was worth its weight in gold.
