1957 Ford Battlebird

As the 1950's rolled along, the need for speed was becoming ever more present. Daytona, Florida was a major stop on the circuit for all manufacturers to showcase and test their latest creation. Chevrolet had already visited Daytona many times before with their Mighty Corvette, and Ford, not wanting to rest on their laurels, answered back with a project car based on the hugely successful Thunderbird. Labeled the Battlebird, the car was built with just one purpose - to do battle with other competitors.

Actually, there were two Battlebirds created in 1957, and both went on display with credible performance figures, although the powerplants were drastically different. One Battlebird showed up with a big block Lincoln engine that displaced a whopping 430 cubic inches. The other 'Bird was fitted with a 312 cubic inch Ford powerplant. With no 4-speed gearbox at hand, Jaguar stepped up to the plate and donated two such units to back the heavily modified engines. Other modifications included stronger brakes, and the Thunderbird went on a strict diet. Anything not essential for performance on the car was totally stripped off. After adding fuel injection and supercharging to the engines, they found their new home six inches further back in the engine compartment.

Along with the stripping of non essential materials, critical items needed were replaced with lighter aluminum pieces. Jim Travers and Frank Coons, who both had a long history with performance Fords, were also brought on board to complete the cars and get them in race ready competition mode. Although that competition was limited, the smaller Ford engine was said to have the better numbers. Rumor has it that the Lincoln powered car went a full 200 M.P.H. at Daytona, but was unable to back it up with a second run to make it official. With over 400 horsepower under the hoods of both 'Birds, the numbers are easy to understand.

Unfortunately, after retiring the Battlebirds from official competition, the Lincoln powered car was destroyed in a fire. The Ford powered car has been restored and lives on to this day and still makes the show circuit. If lucky enough to see this sole surviving Battlebird, take plenty of photos. A piece of history will be yours for the taking.