In 1957, Ford introduced an all-new lineup of cars that were longer, lower, and wider than the ‘56s and firmly moved Ford into the jet age with their styling. And despite the ubiquity of the ’57 Chevy today, the Ford actually out-sold the Chevy by a significant margin. The Ford’s styling was a home-run, offering a more upscale look that was much more substantial than the other cars in its class with modest fins, lots of chrome, and sleek greenhouses that almost looked customized. The familiar side trim that dips at the trailing edge of the doors continues a theme introduced two years earlier, offering a cool gold anodized insert on top-of-the-line Fairlane 500 models. For Ford fans, 1957 was the year that Ford built their first truly modern car.

This beautiful 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 Victoria is a top-of-the-line model that features more than 25 factory options and authorized accessories, making it a special find. Finished in its original Colonial White over Starmist Blue, it’s the ideal ‘50s cruiser with a surprisingly clean look. Great proportions give it a long, lean look that’s a long way from the somewhat chunky ’56 models and the Fairlane models sat on a 2-inch longer wheelbase than their lesser siblings, which surely helps. The restoration is probably approaching its 20th birthday, but thanks to long-term ownership with a very passionate enthusiast, it remains in fantastic condition overall. We gave the paint a modest buff to bring out the shine and nothing looks better on ‘50s sheetmetal than pastels—the Starmist Blue highlights the gentle curve of the tailfins, which remained fairly modest on Fords of the period. Experts will note optional upgrades like the M-shaped bumper guard up front, the “hockey stick” stainless rocker trim, the combination spotlight/mirror on the driver’s front fender, and fender skirts that enhance the already low profile. All that chrome was refinished when the car was restored and it’s holding up pretty well, so the car glitters with plenty of jewelry. It’s not perfect but it’s very good, making this is a very handsome car that’s ready to hit local events and attract a lot of attention.

The interior is fitted with pretty blue and white upholstery that adds a bright, airy feel that works well thanks to the pillarless hardtop Victoria styling. The upholstery, carpets, door panels, headliner, and other soft parts were replaced in the not-too-distant past and still look fantastic, with correct materials and patterns used throughout. You will note that this car is loaded with options, including power windows and a power front seat, a Town & Country AM radio, day/night mirror, Ford floor mats, and a windshield washer unit. All the windows zip up and down easily, the power seat works properly, and the factory gauges are all operational, along with the aftermarket temperature gauge under the dash. From behind the wheel, it feels contemporary and anyone can handle this big Ford thanks to power steering and power brakes. The trunk carries what appears to be its original plait mat, and includes a full-sized spare and correct jack assembly.

This awesome Ford carries a 312 cubic inch “Thunderbird Special” V8 engine, and of the dozens of cars that have been powered by the venerable Y-block, I think this one runs best. It’s shockingly strong, with great low-end pull and comfortable highway cruising with plenty in reserve. It was rebuilt when the car was restored and we’d estimate that was about 20,000 miles ago, so it’s still healthy and strong and as I said, it runs great. It’s nicely detailed with a correct heavy-duty air cleaner, Ford Red engine enamel, proper valve covers, and little stuff like correct hose clamps and a yellow-top ignition coil make the difference. The big radiator up front seems to keep it nice and cool no matter what you’re doing and both the power steering and power brake systems are operating correctly. The only deviation from stock is a slightly larger cooling fan, but that can’t be a bad idea in a car that you’re going to want to drive.

This has always been a favorite road trip car, so the undercarriage isn’t detailed for show but it is quite solid with none of the usual issues that plague these cars. The Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission offers crisp shifts and no slipping, the ride is nicely controlled as it should be on a big luxury car, and with 3.10 gears out back, it’s comfortable on the highway at modern speeds. The dual exhaust system has a nice V8 purr that has a little bit of ‘50s attitude and you’ll note this car is also equipped with factory exhaust tips under the rear bumper. The body mounts, spare tire well, and rocker panel areas are all completely solid, and you can see that the shocks are recent and many of the body mounting bushings were replaced, so it has the smooth, quiet ride the engineers intended. Factory steel wheels carry optional “turbine” hubcaps and a set of right-sized G78-14 wide whites.

We’ve sold quite a few 57-58-59 Fords recently, and this one lives close to the top of the heap. It’s not perfect, but it drives superbly, offers a long list of options and accessories, and the look will stand out anywhere ’57 Chevys abound. Longer, lower, and leaner than their GM counterparts, these Fords will always be a favorite for fans of the ‘50s. Take it for a drive and you’ll see what we mean—this one is special. Call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.