Raven Black 1957 Ford Thunderbird Heads to Freije & Freije Auctioneers

Few American classics carry the charm of the 1957 Ford Thunderbird, and a gorgeous Raven Black example is set to cross the block at Freije & Freije Auctioneers. Offered as Lot 22009 in The Fall Big Boy Toy Auction hosted by The Auto Dealers Exchange, this two-seat T-Bird is scheduled to start at noon on October 30, with an opening bid of just $5.

Dressed in deep Raven Black over a flame red interior, this Thunderbird is the kind of car that stops conversations at a cruise-in. The classic two-tone drama of black paint and red leather is trimmed out with original-style Kelsey/Hayes replica wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich Silvertown wide whitewalls, a tire and wheel package that the listing says cost over $4,500.

Under the hood, the build is every bit as interesting as the paint. A 312-cubic-inch V8 breathes through dual quad carburetors, with an engine built by Thane Houser, and the car is backed by Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission and 356 gears. Engine specs are available, which should be welcome news for anyone who likes to know exactly what is spinning under the hood.

Inside, the flame red interior is bright, clean and period-perfect, with pleated red seats, matching door panels and carpet, a sweeping steering wheel, and a dash full of chrome-ringed gauges. It is a cabin that invites you to slide behind the wheel and head for the open road.

Buyers who want year-round versatility will appreciate that this Thunderbird also comes with the hard top with its signature porthole window option. 1957 was the final year for the original two-seat Thunderbird, and with its long rear deck and tasteful tail fins, it remains one of the most celebrated designs of the 1950s.

Provenance adds to the appeal. The car was owned by Norbert Sprouse and built by Julian Gressel, and the listing notes that detailed records from Sprouse are available. The odometer reads 82,703 actual miles, giving a prospective owner a well-documented, carefully assembled Thunderbird to enjoy right away.

With a $5 opening bid and a $5 bid increment, this 1957 Ford Thunderbird is an inviting way to get into the classic game. Bidders can view the full photo gallery, details and terms on the lot page, then register to bid in person or online.

THE FALL BIG BOY TOY AUCTION HOSTED BY THE AUTO DEALERS EXCHANGE – OCT. 30TH @ 12 PM & OCT. 31ST 10 AM
The Fall Big Boy Toy Auction hosted by The Dealer Exchange will be held October 30-31 in Indianapolis, Indiana. With memorabilia and great classic and collector cars on offer, make sure to visit their website to see the lots and get registered to bid. If you are in the area, and would like to consign your car space is still available.