RARE J-CODE OPTION THUNDERBIRD. The Thunderbird began production as a sporty two-seat convertible for the 1955 model year. Ford positioned the Thunderbird as an upscale personal luxury car. In 1958, the Thunderbird sported a backseat, giving this 4-seater the nickname “Squarebird.” The hardtop was also introduced in 1958 utilizing a uni-body construction similar to that of the Lincoln Continental. The 1960 Thunderbird had very few trim updates before a new generation arrived in 1961. The 1960 models had a third tail-light on each side. This T-Bird came from Texas to Ohio in 1997. The original owner purchased it new in 1960. It was driven from Texas to Ohio according to correspondence in the file.
When it arrived in Ohio, the odometer showed just over 73,000 miles. Since 1997 the car has been driven approximately 1500 miles, now recording 74,537 original miles. According to receipts, the engine was rebuilt at 59,166 miles. The master cylinder, flywheel, heater core, exhaust, brakes and carburetor were all rebuilt or were new at that time. The car sat for years in a climate controlled garage. In December 2019, the widow decided to finally part with this Thunderbird.
Since the car had not been driven in years, the following was done: The gas tank is new from Birds Nest, new electric fuel pump, fuel lines, new Coker radials were put on, new battery, brakes on all 4 wheels and the carburetor was rebuilt.
A detailed invoice is available showing that over $5000 has been spent on the car in September 2019. We only use non ethanol racing fuel in the tank.
The car was repainted its original color of Corinthian White in 1992. The original black and white interior is still in excellent condition. The car has never been in winter weather so there is no rust on the entire body. As expected, some surface rust appears on the undercarriage.
The 430 cu. inch engine OPTION powers this down the road like a speeding bullet. All systems in the car work well except the A/C and clock. The radio works. The car panels and doors are solid and fit well with no sag. This T- bird includes power steering, power seat, power windows, dual side mirrors, air conditioning, fender skirts, radio and clock. The original owners manual and keys are with the car. The headliner is in good condition; however there is a small hole above driver’s door. The chrome is excellent. The right front window glass is cracked. This rare "J" code Bird is original with one repaint. It could use a little TLC to bring it up to show condition, but drive it the way it is for more fun than anyone can have in this exciting automobile.
