1963 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

Description

Ford followed up the three-year run of the “Square Bird” with the freshly restyled “Bullet Bird” in 1961, challenging prospective buyers to “find one that’s standing still” in a period brochure. The new Thunderbird’s projectile-like shape was enhanced by large circular taillights resembling jet engines and a streamlined tonneau cover that covered the back seats in the 1962 Sports Roadster. Under the hood resided an even bigger engine to match its striking looks, as Dearborn’s FE V8 was enlarged to 390 cubic inches and now pumped out 300 horsepower. Interior appointments remained luxurious with a personal center console, deep foam cushioning, bucket seats, and special convenience features like the first Swing-Away Steering Wheel. The Bullet Bird saw minor aesthetic changes for its last model year (1963), including a razor-sharp body line running along the front fenders and doors, angling down behind three new chrome bars. Highly regarded as one of the most beautifully styled cars to ever roll out of Detroit, third-generation Thunderbirds are highly collectible, especially nicely restored examples like the car offered here.  

Highlights 

• Subject to a complete restoration under previous ownership 

• Refinished in as-born Corinthian White with Black vinyl upholstery 

• White power-operated soft top 

• Accessories equipped during the restoration include: 

  • Body-color fiberglass Sports Roadster-style tonneau cover 

  • Chrome wire wheels 

  • Power seats 

  • Power windows 

  • Dual exhaust 

  • Fender skirts 

• 390 cu-in V8 topped with a four-barrel carburetor, rated at 300 horsepower 

• Three-speed Cruise-O-Matic transmission 

• Factory-equipped with wood-grain interior trim 

• This 1963 Ford Thunderbird Convertible is offered with the five-digit odometer currently displaying just over 53,200 miles at the time of listing; however, the true mileage is unknown 

Features 

• Power brakes  

• Power steering  

• Swing-Away Steering Wheel 

• Day/night inside rearview mirror 

• Remote control outside rearview mirrors 

• Individually adjustable front bucket seats 

• Courtesy lights 

• Padded instrument panel and visors 

• All-transistor AM radio 

• MagicAire heater/defroster 

• Electric clock 

• Dual-lens door lights 

• Parking brake warning light 

• Glove box light 

• Trunk light 

• Back-up lights 

• Lighted ignition switch 

• Variable-speed hydraulic wipers with 18 inch blades 

• Complete undercoating 

Known Imperfections 

• This 1963 Ford Thunderbird Convertible is presented as a finely restored example and is said to be free from any substantial imperfections. 

Included 

• Owner’s manual 

• Assorted documents and invoices 

Ownership History 

The consignor reports acquiring this 1963 Ford Thunderbird Convertible circa 2015.