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160 BARRETT-JACKSON EXPERIENCE WINTER 2024The initial concept for the Ford Thunderbird was to create a two-seater sports car that would appeal to a wider market and offer a more luxurious alternative to the smaller, more performance-oriented sports cars of the time, such as the Chevrolet Corvette. Unlike the Corvette, the first-generation Thunderbird, which spanned from 1955 through 1957, was not marketed as a pure sports car but rather as a \luxury car\and style. It featured a distinctive design with a long hood, a short rear deck and a removable fiberglass top. It had a sleek and elegant appearance with a prominent grille, and the circular porthole windows on the removable hardtop became a signature design element.Although the Thunderbird went through numerous changes in subsequent years, evolving into various generations with different body styles and design philosophies, the first-generation Thunderbirds are highly sought after by collectors and automotive enthusiasts, appreciated for their classic styling and historical significance. Established over 50 years ago, Amos and Justin Minter’s Thunderbirds 55-57 restoration shop, based in Dallas, Texas, has become one of the world's most skilled and respected specialty restoration establishments, specializing in – you guessed it – first-generation Thunderbirds. Minter-restored Thunderbirds are known for their quality and attention to detail that makes them high-scoring show cars on many concours fields. Bidders at Barrett-Jackson’s 2024 Scottsdale Auction will have the opportunity to take home a 1957 Ford Thunderbird that was the recipient of a professional Minter body-off restoration. The vehicle will be offered with No Reserve during the January 20-28 event at WestWorld. The available Thunderbird comes equipped with a rebuilt 312/245hp V8 engine, matched with a Ford-OMatic 3-speed automatic transmission. Its underbody has undergone refinishing, showcasing the authentic 1957 Willow Green hue complemented by a glossy black frame and suspension.SEE THIS 1957 FORD THUNDERBIRD FROM THE AMOS AND JUSTIN MINTER COLLECTION IN SCOTTSDALECRUISING THROUGH TIME