1960 | Ford Thunderbird

Registration number: DE-17-87

In 1958, Ford made a turning point with its well-known Thunderbird. This model was truly popular in the luxury two-seater sports car segment. Ford had the model completely redesigned to seat four passengers inside. What was the result? The Thunderbird grew in size and became significantly larger than its predecessors, with the bodywork manufactured in the new Lincoln factory in Wixom, Michigan. The brand-new model also benefited from many convenient and luxurious details. There were now two different models: a coupé and a convertible with an electrically operated roof. The convertible used the mechanism that was developed for the Ford Skyliner, featuring a folding hardtop, albeit with a vinyl soft-top. Ford reportedly considered making a folding hardtop, like the Skyliner, but rumours suggest that this apparently was not economically feasible.

Naturally, changes bring both positive and negative reactions. The true purists criticised the move of the T-Bird to a higher market segment, but the customers who actually bought the cars responded positively to the changes. This was also clearly noticeable in the sales figures. These almost doubled, and Motor Trend magazine chose the new Thunderbird as the Car of the Year 1958.

The models of 1959 almost exceeded expectations, as sales figures rose to just under 70,000 units. The last year of the second-generation Thunderbird was 1960, and the Thunderbird then received an update. Ford installed a new grille, triple tail lights, and from now on, a metal sliding roof was optionally available. Sales continued to increase, reaching over 90,000 units. In fact, this sales record for the Thunderbird continued at the same numbers until the introduction of a less expensive, downsized version in 1977.

We are excited to be able to offer such a beautiful Ford Thunderbird at Gallery Aaldering, including sought-after options like air conditioning. What a lovely rear end with those beautiful tail lights, and although we always believe that the first examples are the most beautiful, we must admit that the modifications make this Thunderbird very attractive. What do you think?

This Thunderbird dates from July 1, 1960, made in Michigan, USA. The first owner ordered this Thunderbird in the colour Royal Burgundy Metallic with a black leather interior; the colour combination that the car still has today. This Ford is in a neat condition, both the exterior, interior, and mechanically. We would best describe the exterior as being neat, with beautiful chrome work and windows in good condition. Additionally, the bodywork looks well-maintained. The soft-top is also in good order.

Inside, we encounter very nice authentic upholstery. The leather shows signs of use, but still looks beautiful. We love this period of American cars, and the entire interior exudes an early 1960s aura. The dashboard, together with the controls, are in great condition. Sturdily built, as we are accustomed to from Ford, and beautifully designed.

Under the hood, everything looks well-maintained, and when we turn the key, the V8 engine with 300 hp produces a wonderful sound. The automatic transmission performs its function properly, and driving this Thunderbird takes us straight back to the fantastic sixties of the last century.

Are you interested in this beautiful Ford Thunderbird Convertible? Please contact us; we are happy to assist you. You are welcome at Gallery Aaldering in Brummen. The international export of our vehicles is also possible. Please ask for our terms and conditions.