What transmission was in a 1957 Thunderbird?
The 1957 Ford Thunderbird was a classic American sports car that featured a unique transmission setup. The Thunderbird was equipped with a three-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for the model year.
The Three-Speed Manual Transmission
The three-speed manual transmission in the 1957 Thunderbird was a column-shifted unit, meaning the gear shifter was located on the steering column rather than the floor. This was a common configuration for American cars of the era. The transmission provided the driver with three forward gears, allowing them to control the power delivery and engine speed as needed.
The three-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option available for the 1957 Thunderbird. Ford did not offer an automatic transmission as an alternative that year. Drivers who wanted the convenience of an automatic had to wait until the 1958 model year, when Ford introduced a three-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission as an option.
Driving the 1957 Thunderbird
Driving the 1957 Thunderbird with its three-speed manual transmission required some skill and engagement from the driver. The clutch pedal had to be depressed to shift gears, and the driver had to coordinate the clutch, throttle, and gear shifter to make smooth, seamless gear changes.
The three-speed manual transmission also meant that the driver had to be more attentive to engine speed and road conditions to keep the Thunderbird in the optimal gear. This added to the overall driving experience, as the driver had a more direct connection to the car's performance.
Conclusion
The three-speed manual transmission was an integral part of the 1957 Ford Thunderbird's driving experience. It required more involvement from the driver but also provided a more engaging and connected feel to the car's performance. The three-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option available for the 1957 Thunderbird, and it helped establish the model as a true sports car of its era.
What does the e-code mean on a 1957 Thunderbird?
The “E-Code” option, regarded by many as the most desirable option available in the Thunderbird, features the 312-cubic inch V-8, which is topped with a pair of Holley four-barrel carburetors and was graced with a larger bore, longer stroke, higher compression ratio, and an automatic choke.
What is the rarest 1957 Thunderbird?
The rarest of all 1957 Ford Thunderbirds is the 1957 Phase One D/F Factory Supercharged. One of 15 hand-built for Ford Competition at Ford Headquarters, and one of eight known to survive today.
What engine came in a 57 T-bird?
The base engine in the '57 Thunderbird line-up was the 292 four-barrel, pumping out 212 horsepower. The 312, also with a single four, was a step up and rated at 245 horsepower. The hottest carbureted V-8 was the dual quad 312, boasting 270 horsepower.
What is an F code 1957 Thunderbird?
So named for the first letter of the Thunderbird's chassis number signifying the car's factory powerplant, “F-Birds,” as they affectionately became known, sported the Thunderbird Special 312-cubic-inch V-8 engine fitted with a McCulloch/Paxton VR57 centrifugal supercharger, pressure-sealed Holley four-barrel carburetor ...
How many miles per gallon does a 1957 Ford Thunderbird get?
Weight: 3350 lbs. Speed: 0-60, 7.8 sec. Top Speed: 121 mph. Fuel Economy: 16.1 mpg.
What transmissions were available in 1957 Thunderbird?
1957 Ford Thunderbird Facts – Powertrain Options
Three speed manual was standard equipment. Ford-o-Matic automatic transmission was optional.
How much is a 1957 Thunderbird worth today?
The value of a 1957 Ford Thunderbird can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $46,850 for a 1957 Ford Thunderbird in good condition with average spec.
How many 1957 Thunderbirds were made?
21,380
Production totals
| Year | Production |
|---|---|
| 1955 | 16,155 |
| 1956 | 15,631 |
| 1957 | 21,380 |
| Total | 53,166 |
What year is the most desirable Thunderbird?
The 1963 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster M-Code is a rare classic car and one of the most sought-after Thunderbird versions.
What is the top speed of the 1957 Thunderbird?
A rare domestic two-seater for the era, it was designed to be a brisk luxury tourer and not a sports car, capable of attaining speeds of 100 to 115 mph (161 to 185 km/h) depending on the transmission ordered.
