Ford Thunderbird Convertible Highly/exceptional original condition! (1962) For sale from Gallery Aaldering , in NL, Netherlands

When we talk about American icons such as the Mustang and the Corvette, there is another car that should not be missing: the Ford Thunderbird. The first generation appears in 1955 and is almost synonymous with the 1950s: exuberant, Rock & Roll, long live the fun. The third generation comes in 1961 and is not to be confused with its two predecessors in appearance. The striking body has the streamlined shape of a rocket, with the taillights reminiscent of the afterburners of fighter jets.
The Thunderbird we offer here is one we can’t get enough of. Looking at it is a party, sitting in it is the same and the best part is driving. The king-of-the-road feeling is very applicable to this Thunderbird, with the big red steering wheel, the crazy clock shop and the view over the wide and long hood.
This Convertible was assembled in 1962 in Wixom (Michigan) to be delivered to its first owner. This owner fell for the 390 V8, the famous Big Block with a capacity of 6.4 liters. Good 300 hp and coupled to the three-speed automatic Cruise-O Matic MX gearbox, the Thunderbird provides a typical American sports car experience: a very torquey eight-cylinder that does its job anything but silently, steering characteristics that can only be reconciled with an American from the sixties and of course the special combination of enormous dimensions that are ‘not completely’ reflected in practical space. This red Thunderbird is also equipped with the beloved Sport Roadster tonneau, so that the rear seat is relegated to storage space. Do you want to go out with friends or family? Don’t worry, the lid can be easily removed and the rear seat is still present.
The body of this Thunderbird is very original. The Ford was once provided with a new coat of paint, but that was a long time ago and that gives the car that beautiful original look. The fact that it has been a while since the new paint was applied does not mean that the Thunderbird is showing its age: the car is free of rust and noticeable damage and all details are exceptionally beautiful. The chrome work of an average classic car includes some strips, a grille and the narrow bumpers, but with this American almost the entire front is made of the shiny material. The chromed rear bumper, which covers a large part of the rear, is also neat.
The interior is in a condition as we like it: original but completely intact. The dashboard with three large round counters in deep tubes is in top condition, the many aluminum that is abundantly present is also almost perfect. The upholstery shows that it has been used but is complete without tears, dirt or other things that are not desired. The seats feel very smooth and sit great. The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable and the side windows can be operated automatically. Another nice detail: the original radio is present in the car. Once behind the wheel you don’t want to leave, promise!
The Thunderbird is also exceptionally good technically. The smooth V8 runs beautifully and is very focused. Pressing the right pedal down, you are immediately treated to a strong push in the back. Don’t forget: the Thunderbird sprints to 100 in less than ten seconds. Today no one will be weakened by that anymore, but at the time those were serious achievements. The rest of the technology is just as convincing as the engine and gearbox. The brakes, chassis and steering also give a very safe and pleasant feeling. The good feeling will not disappear when you look at the bottom of the car, which is very neat and healthy.
The Thunderbird comes with the necessary documentation, photos and a beautiful Ford yearbook from 1962 for internal use in which all models are described, including the Thunderbird with all original options, colors and specifications.
In short: a car that not only makes a huge impression on an aesthetic level, but also convinces when it comes to driving pleasure. Interested in a Thunderbird? Then we are sure that this rare original car will not disappoint.