Cool ‘50s resto-mod. Super clean bodywork with a Ford 351W V8 under the hood, C6 automatic, and a modern subframe with power steering and disc brakes. Also equipped with A/C and an upgraded stereo, but still has a vintage feel. Great cruiser!

There’s nothing on the outside of this Ford that gives away the updates underneath, and that’s the essence of a resto-mod. The upgrades are hidden. Fortunately, the exterior lives up to the work that was invested, with laser-straight bodywork that comes from somewhere dry and warm, because there’s just no evidence that this car was ever rotted or wrecked. The two-tone Torch Red and Colonial White combination is pure 1950s timeless and looks great on 1957’s sleek, updated bodywork. The Fairlane added plenty of chrome, with that dramatic strip running down the flanks and highlighting the modest fins in back—maybe it’s easier to see why Ford out-sold Chevy in ’57. The doors swing shut easily, gaps are good all around, and that continental kit out back makes this car look about a mile long. The chrome and stainless trim is in very good condition, with a lot of it having been refinished during the build, but some of it could be nice original stuff, too. And the only thing that tips anyone off that this isn’t a standard ’57 Ford are those twin exhaust tips out back.

The interior was nicely refurbished at the same time using period materials and correct patterns that keep the ‘50s feel. The big steering wheel makes it easy to handle (although it now has power steering) and the original shifter has been connected to the updated C6 3-speed automatic transmission. Factory gauges continue the OEM theme and the controls manage all the original features. You’ll note there’s an under-dash A/C unit that blows nice and cold and while the original AM radio is still in the dash, there’s a newer Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo head unit underneath, which feeds speakers on the rear package shelf. Seat belts have been added for safety. The trunk is positively massive particularly with the spare tire hanging off the rear bumper, and it’s outfitted with a correct plaid mat.

Mechanically, there’s no trace of the somewhat tepid Y-block, which has been replaced with a bigger and more powerful 351 Windsor V8. It’s not radical or built for speed, but with a 4-barrel carburetor and MSD ignition, it’s plenty potent and makes this big Ford feel light on its feet. It’s neatly dressed with Ford Motorsport hardware and there’s a massive radiator up front. A modern A/C system is efficient and uses R134a refrigerant, so it’ll be easy to service in the future and you’ll note that both power steering and power front disc brakes are included. The front subframe is from a late-model and includes an updated suspension with a fat sway bar, so handling is a bit more familiar. The aforementioned C6 3-speed automatic transmission feeds what appears to be a GM 10-bolt rear end with highway gears inside, making this a great cruiser. Note the clean floors and rockers, the newer dual exhaust system, and recent gas tank out back. And if you need more evidence of how clean this car really is, check out that spare tire well, which looks almost factory fresh. Nice! Steel wheels with hubcaps complete the illusion, and they carry 205/75/14 Goodyear whitewall radials for an updated ride.

A set of steel fender skirts painted to match the car are included.

The 1957 Fords were wonderful cars with full-sized comfort and plenty of style. This one offers the added bonus of extra horsepower that doesn’t change the car’s basic personality. With plentiful parts and easy service, plus the safety of disc brakes, the modifications are smart but invisible. If you like the ’57 Ford, this one delivers everything that an original does with the benefit of modern performance. Call today!

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