1960 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Raleigh Classic Car Auctions have built a pristine reputation over 26 years of live auctions, as the go-to for the best-of-the-best offerings for car collectors and enthusiasts. Regionally trusted and nationally recognized, Raleigh Classic Car Auctions continues to find low-mile, original examples with documentation annually. The September Special is an offering of 38 premium quality, low-mile and desirable, domestic lots from three private estates offered entirely without reserve. All vehicles are available for in-person inspection at The Raleigh Classic Showroom in Zebulon, NC; 9:00am-4:00pm Monday-Friday: 9/15/25-10/3/25 or by appointment.

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By 1958, Ford’s Thunderbird had grown considerably compared to the compact, 181-inch 2-seater that soared into the sunset the previous year. Sports car lovers may not have agreed with Ford’s plan to add two more seats and 24 inches to the body, but buyers did—the bigger ’Bird sold as well in its first year as the ’56 and ’57 models combined.

The new “Square Bird” was more dramatically styled with quad headlights, a low-slung grille, a rocket-like character line running along the doors to the nose, and lots of chrome. In 1958 the T-bird’s convertible body style returned, and 1959 buyers could opt for full leather upholstery. Thrust was delivered from a 352 cu-in FE-Block V8 making 300 horsepower. The second-generation “Square Bird” was no longer just a country club cruiser, and 1960 was this version’s best sales year, and the highest T-Bird production until 1976. Indeed, the 1960 Thunderbird was the “world’s most wanted car.”

This beautifully restored 1960 Thunderbird Convertible underwent a comprehensive, no-expense-spared mechanical restoration of all components between 2022 and 2024, including the professional installation of a modern fuel injection system.

Highlights

• Offered from The Raleigh Classic Collection

• Receipts and documentation of comprehensive mechanical restoration of all components totals nearly $50,000

• Powered by a 352 cu-in V8 engine with a three-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission

• Upgraded, and professionally installed, Holly Sniper EFI

• Wire wheels with whitewall tires

Features

• Power steering

• Power brakes

• Power windows

• Power seats

• Power convertible top

• Optioned with Ford Magic Aire System

• Equipped with continental kit, trunk-mounted tire

• Upgraded modern retro-looking Custom Autosound Bluetooth radio

Known Imperfections

• Paint crack on rocker panel

• Paint chip on passenger front fascia

Ownership History

This car is from one of three private estates, comprising the September Special of the Raleigh Classic Car Collection.