1957 Ford Fairlane 500 Club Victoria
Client: Jim Nolan
Warsaw, IN
The story of this restoration comes from our client Jim Nolan, “I chose a 1957 Ford Fairlane to restore because my Grandmother taught me to drive with one similar to this in 1959. Chad Yoder, of Yoder Custom and Collision in Milford, IN did the frame-off restoration for me. I was involved with the entire restoration except for the body and paint—for that I just paid the bills.
The theme of the restoration had to leave the car in stock configuration but with performance qualities. I chose a 1963 engine with mild performance and a transmission capable of delivering over 20mpg during highway use, while incorporating a low-geared differential for drag racing qualities. I have ended up achieving my goals. This is the car I would have died for when I was a kid and it’s as every bit of fun now as it was in the early sixties.
While this car has won over 100 plaques and trophies over the years, the most rewarding year was 2010. This 1957 Fairlane took 1st place in the 57-59 Ford Full Size class at the Ford Nationals in Carlisle, PA. This Fairlane also won three Best of Show Awards in 2010. I know of no other classic car to achieve these honors and be driven every day to collect approximately 15k miles a year.”
Drive Train
- 390ci / 300hp Thunderbird Engine (1963)
- Lakewood Safety Bell Housing
- McCleod Racing Clutch and Pressure Plate
- Tremec TKO 600 5-Speed Transmission
- Heavy Duty High Torque Drive Shaft
- 9 inch Ford Equi-Loc 3.70 Differential
- Power Disc Breaks in Front; Drums in rear
- 2 1/4 inch Exhaust with High-Flow Mufflers
- 1 1/8 inch Heavy Duty Front Sway Bar
- Griffin Aluminum Radiator
