One of the great rewards of owning a first generation Thunderbird is that many people admit that they are simply proud to be seen in this American classic. With graceful, sweeping lines that are admired worldwide, it is a fine complement to the proud owner’s taste and judgment.

The proud owner of this well-turned-out AACA winning car is 2014 inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; Max Weinberg (aka Minister of the Big Beat) who entered as the drummer of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band.

This exceptional D-Code car has received a complete nut-and-bolt restoration and is finished in Dusk Rose with a Colonial White removable “porthole” hardtop with white interior. The 312-cid, 245-hp Thunderbird Special V-8 engine was optional; an automatic is the transmission of choice. The engine resides in a well-turned-out bay and the underside is equally orderly; additional equipment includes a soft-top, tonneau cover, radio, factory wheel covers and whitewall tires.

This final year two-seat T-Bird has won many awards which accompany the car, including AACA Senior Class. Mr. Weinberg had disc brakes installed for safety, which is allowed in competitions, plus the car has new radial tires.

Nineteen fifty-seven was the final year for the original generation two-passenger Thunderbird. In 1958, it would accommodate four passengers. This ’57 is a beautiful example with a great story.