There’s a newer dual exhaust system that’s appropriately hushed thanks to proper resonaters out back and the suspension and brakes were rebuilt at the time of restoration. You’ll note that the undercarriage is in excellent condition with no patches or signs of accident repair (these cars are unit-body machines so damage is easy to spot) and all the structural members are in great shape. Shifts are smooth enough to be almost unnoticeable and with 3.00 gears out back, this is an ideal high-speed cruiser that’s equally at home on the highway. The only transmission available was a 3-speed automatic, but it is the right choice for the luxury-oriented ‘Bird. The only non-stock item of note is the A/C compressor, but the lighter, more efficient unit blends in nicely. Fittings and hardware are correct throughout, showing that someone cared about going the extra mile. Detailing on the engine is show-worthy, with gold tinwork on a black block, reproduction decals, and a new wiring harness. This one was rebuilt to stock specs and runs beautifully, starting easily and idling with a kind of muscular thrum that feels powerful yet luxurious. In 1964, all Thunderbirds used the Z-code 390 cubic inch V8, which makes 300 horsepower and enough torque to make the T-Bird feel pretty quick. The trunk, as I mentioned, is fully finished with a correct mat set, matching full-sized spare on a chrome wire wheel, and a correct jack assembly stashed in the quarter panel. It’s also worth noting that this car includes a full roadster tonneau (not shown in photos) which will be shipped with the car. And yes, the black power convertible top is fully operational, stowing itself in the fully finished trunk with the touch of a button. And these cars have what is quite likely the coolest back seat ever created. Other features include power windows, dual power front seats, and the swing-away steering wheel, which was so popular that it became standard equipment. The gauges are all operational, including the clock, and there’s a modern digital AM/FM/cassette radio in the original radio’s slot (the original radio is included with the car). The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, which isn’t stock but feels great in your hands and you’ll note that the factory A/C system has been upgraded with modern Vintage Air components so it’s effective and reliable, not to mention easy to service. Correct seat covers, highly detailed door panels, and that awesome dashboard with the floating auxiliary gauges all make this a very special car to drive. The restoration work extended to the interior where almost everything is new and it’s beautifully done. The red interior is an unusual but welcome look that obviously works well. This is a clean, well-dressed, and insanely well-restored car. Plenty of bright chrome, all of which has been professionally restored, gives the big ‘Bird a dressed-up look. The shine is brilliant and the red is exactly right-not too orange or too pink. The paint is glossy and deep, probably better than new, and thanks to outstanding care since it was finished, it remains virtually unmarked and showing no signs of age. Yes, of course, it’s still a luxury barge, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look a little sporting, right? Even the hood scoop is a nice touch that recalls the first 2-seat T-Birds that won America’s hearts in 1955. Styling is clever, too, because this is an immense car that doesn’t look as big as it is, returning some sportiness to the luxury-oriented Thunderbird. Laser-straight bodywork shows off the tight crease that runs from nose to tail, and you’ll note that everything lines up as it moves from panel to panel. No doubt about it, and it was evident from the first moment we laid eyes on this stunning Rangoon Red ragtop. This is unquestionably the finest fourth-gen Thunderbird we’ve ever featured. Runs and drives superbly, beautifully detailed throughout, ready to drive or show at almost any level. Roadster tonneau, wire wheels, A/C, power windows, and more. This is a clean, well-dressed, and insanely well-restored car.Įxceptional high-end restoration.
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