1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible 312 V8

19 photos

New Mortdale, NSW, 2223

1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible 312 V8

$79,990

Odometer 18,811 miles

Body type Convertible

Fuel Petrol

Transmission 2 Speed Ford-O-Matic

Vehicle Overview

1957 Ford Thunderbird D-Code 312 V8.

The 1957 Ford Thunderbird occupies a distinctive place in American automotive history: a compact two-seat convertible that blended sporting intent with the comfort and presence expected of a full-size American car. This example is finished in Starmist Blue and pairs its sculpted body with both a white convertible soft-top and a porthole hardtop, allowing the car to be enjoyed as an open grand tourer or enclosed for less favourable weather.

Power comes from Ford's D-Code 312 cubic-inch overhead-valve V8, rated here at 245 bhp and fed by a single four-barrel carburetor. It is paired with a two-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission. The mechanical specification remains characteristically period-correct, with independent wishbone front suspension, a live rear axle and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. The listing records new front and rear drum brakes, a new power brake booster, a new exhaust and muffler system, and a complete service.

For a car of this era, the equipment list is particularly notable. Power steering, electric windows and a four-way electric seat add everyday convenience without taking away from the Thunderbird's original character. The car also includes a Town & Country AM radio, supplied but not installed. Its black and cream trim contrasts with the blue exterior, while the removable hardtop and soft-top combination gives the body style an unusual degree of flexibility.

The car's documented history is an important part of its identity. It was originally purchased in New York in 1957 by actor Anthony Perkins and was retained by him until 1981, with documentation referenced in the listing. It later spent time in California before being brought to Sydney in 2008. The listing also identifies its association with the Playboy Mansion during that earlier period. These details give the Thunderbird a provenance that extends beyond its styling and specification, while the supplied gallery includes related historical documentation.

The 1957 model year brought several visual changes that distinguish it from earlier Thunderbirds, including a reshaped front bumper, a larger grille, more prominent tailfins and larger tail-lamps. The spare wheel was moved inside the redesigned boot, and the Thunderbird script shifted to the front fenders. Together, these changes gave the car a more assertive appearance while preserving the clean, compact proportions that made the first-generation Thunderbird so distinctive.

The odometer displays 18,811 miles. The car is listed from Lane Cove, New South Wales, and the listing states that it was on full NSW registration until July 2026. With its period V8, automatic transmission, dual-roof arrangement, uncommon factory-era equipment and documented celebrity ownership history, this Thunderbird represents a particularly characterful example of Ford's 1950s two-seat grand touring concept.

Other highlights include Condition: Used; Powertrain: Petrol; Transmission: 2 Speed Ford-o-Matic; Engine or motor: 245 bhp D-Code 312 cu. in. OHV V-8 with single four-barrel carburetor.

Specifications

Year: 1957
Make: Ford
Model: Thunderbird
Variant: D-Code 312 V8
Condition: New
Body type: Convertible
Transmission: 2 Speed Ford-o-Matic
Fuel: Petrol
Engine or motor: 245 bhp D-Code 312 cu. in. OHV V-8 with single four-barrel carburetor
Exterior colour: Starmist Blue
Interior colour: Black and Cream
Doors: 2
Seats: 2
Odometer: 18,811 miles
VIN: D7FH267794
Stock reference: 6742