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2008 Melbourne International Motorshow Auction
Lot
48

1962 Ford Thunderbird Coupe (LHD)

$11,000

melbourne

Sold

Specifications

Engine V8, 390-cid
Gearbox 3-Speed Automatic
Body Work Coupe
Colour Springtime Yellow
Interior Black
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Steel Disc
Brakes Drums

Description

This lot is no longer available

Ford's Thunderbird series was the ultimate in personal luxury cars, with the first generation cars of 1955-1957 designed to compete with Chevrolet's Corvette before expanding into chrome-laden behemoths - known as ?Square Birds? - in 1958. Ford totally redesigned the Thunderbird for 1961, releasing a car with fresh styling that was longer, lower, wider and much better looking. Known as the ?Cigar Bird? after the pointed-nose and long side fins, the 1961 Thunderbird was Ford's most expensive model and sold in limited numbers in both convertible and coupe form. All Thunderbirds were built in Wixom, Michigan, came with a 390-cid V8 engine with Cruise-O-Matic transmission and an extensive list of standard equipment like power steering, power brakes, plus an even longer selection of optional extras. The chassis was developed for a smoother ride and improved handling, while the interior had a curved dashboard that echoed the exterior styling. As with many American cars, the first year of the new shape had the cleanest look, as succeeding models grew chrome accents and trim, and a good 1961 Thunderbird has become a very popular cruiser.