1961 Ford Thunderbird Landau Hardtop

Ford introduced their third generation Thunderbird in 1961 and were quickly given the nickname 'Bullet Bird.' The cars nickname evolved from its pointed nose, a very symmetrical shape, round taillights inspired by a jet engine, modest fins, and projectile inspired lines. The styling reflected the era in which it was hatched; the early 1960s was the Space Age and the concerns over the Cold War. This third generation bird no doubt took its creative styling cues from rocket ships and air bound projectiles.

The 1961 Thunderbird was given the honor of serving as the pace car for the Indianapolis 500. Fifty Thunderbirds were used by president-elect John F. Kennedy in his inaugural procession. The public also agreed with the vehicles styling, buying over 70,000 units in its first year.

This 1961 Ford Thunderbird Hardtop Coupe was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars sale at Hershey, PA presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $30,000 - $40,000. It was offered without reserve and sold for the high bid of $25,300 including buyer's premium.

The car is fitted with an overhead valve V8 engine with four-barrel carburetor and a displacement size of 390 cubic-inches. The 300 horsepower is sent to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic gearbox and kept in the drivers control via four-wheel drum brakes.

It is finished in Burgundy with an Oyster colored interior. It has been treated to a cosmetic restoration since new and has traveled only 26,350 miles since leaving the factory. Factory options included on this car include power steering, power brakes, dual outside mirrors, tinted glass, fender skirts, power windows, power locks, factory radio, and wide whitewall tires.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2007