1964 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

This 1964 Ford Thunderbird Convertible was offered for sale at the 2007 Sports and Classic Car Auction presented by The Worldwide Group, in Hilton Head Island, SC where it was estimated to sell for $30,000 - $40,000. It was offered without reserve. It is powered by a 390 cubic-inch V8 engine and mated to a Cruise-O-Matic transmission. There is an independent ball join suspension and four-wheel power drum brakes.

The idea of the Ford Thunderbird concept was to build a two-passenger open car that weighed around 2,520 pounds and was powered by a potent V8 engine with a top speed of at least 100 mph. A clay model was shown to the GM executives on May 18th of 1953 and was very close to the original product. It was given the go-ahead in September.

The Thunderbird was a car with sporty intentions, but not a full-blown sports car as was the Corvette from Chevrolet. The Thunderbird coupled performance with luxury.

Sales were strong for the first generation, but not to the expectations of the executives. One of the perceived shortcomings was that it only had seating for two making it unsuitable for families. The second generation, introduced for 1958, resolved this issue by having seating for four. It was created with a uni-body construction and provided ample space for its occupants.

For 1964, the Thunderbird receives changes including a restyling that gave it a squared-off, 'formal' look. This version was known as the 'Flair-Bird'. Another big improvement was more power, including a 390 cubic-inch V8 engine that offered around 315 horsepower. Zero-to-sixty took about 11 seconds and was capable of producing around 120 mph.

This vehicle is finished in white and has many factory options including air conditioning, fender skirts, spoked wheel covers, a power top, power windows, and many other luxurious amenities.

This vehicle was treated to a cosmetic restoration which is still in good condition. At auction the car found a new owner and one willing to spend $22,275 for this Thunderbird Convertible.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2007