What cars did Ford make in 1957?
Ford's 1957 lineup encompassed a broad range of cars—from everyday sedans and coupes to a bold new car-based pickup—while laying the groundwork for a separate Edsel marque for the 1958 lineup. The following overview identifies the main Ford models produced or marketed in 1957 and explains the era’s strategic shifts.
In 1957, Ford offered a spectrum of passenger cars, including the base Custom, the mid-range Custom 300, the Fairlane family, and the top-trim Fairlane 500, along with the Thunderbird sport coupe and the Ranchero car-based pickup that marked a notable new body style for Ford. The year also saw the public unveiling of Edsel, Ford's experimental new marque, intended for the 1958 model year.
Ford's 1957 car lineup
Below is a concise list of Ford's principal passenger-car models and notable introductions in 1957. Each entry reflects Ford's strategy to cover affordable family cars, mid- to upper-range models, and distinctive specialty offerings.
- Ford Custom
- Ford Custom 300
- Ford Fairlane
- Ford Fairlane 500
- Ford Ranchero (car-based pickup introduced in 1957)
- Ford Thunderbird
The lineup demonstrates Ford's commitment to breadth—from practical sedans to a luxury-oriented two-seater, paired with an experimental utility vehicle.
The Edsel brand arrives
The Edsel project was announced in 1957 as Ford's foray into a distinct midpriced market segment. Although the cars would market as a separate brand for the 1958 model year, the initiative began in 1957 with plans for a four-model lineup.
- Corsair
- Bermuda
- Pacer
- Citation
Note: Edsel would become one of Ford's most noted branding experiments, ultimately lasting only a few model years before being discontinued after 1960.
Corsair
The Corsair was positioned as a premium Edsel model with upscale styling and features intended to attract midrange buyers seeking more luxury.
Bermuda
The Bermuda offered a balance of style and value, expanding Edsel's appeal in the midprice market.
Pacer
The Pacer represented a more contemporary Edsel design, aimed at attracting buyers looking for a newer, roomy layout.
Citation
The Citation served as the Edsel flagship, combining features and finishes aimed at the top end of the Edsel spectrum.
Summary: In 1957 Ford delivered a comprehensive lineup of traditional sedans and coupes, added a new car-based pickup with the Ranchero, and initiated the Edsel project for a forthcoming 1958 lineup. The year captured Ford's strategy of broad market coverage while exploring a major branding experiment.
