Vehicle Description
When Ford introduced the so-called "square bird" in 1958, some
skeptics wondered if the radically different four-seat Thunderbird
would resonate in the same way with buyers as the more overtly
sporty, two-seat original. Any worries were cast aside in short
order as the new four-passenger Thunderbird blew away previous
sales records, selling 200,000 units in its first three years. Ford
wisely stuck with the formula for the third generation T-Bird,
introduced in 1961. The most significant change was, of course, the
completely new and modern body styling. The new design featured a
cleaner profile, inset headlamps, and a distinct pointed nose
treatment. The sweeping, creased beltline made one continuous line
from the tip of the front bumper to the end of the tail,
terminating at big round taillights that mimicked the afterburners
of a jet engine. It was wonderfully stylish without appearing
overly fussy. Offered as a coupe or convertible, the Thunderbird
continued to be a winner for Ford, and it spurred on competitors to
join the personal luxury car market, but few enjoyed the same
unbridled success of the Thunderbird. This 1963 Thunderbird is a
Vintage Thunderbird Club International Senior Award winner,
presented in its correct original color scheme of Acapulco Blue
over two-tone blue upholstery. It is a superb example, boasting a
highly detailed, ground-up restoration with a host of desirable
options and accessories. Supremely stylish in metallic light blue,
this T-Bird displays excellent quality paintwork and straight,
crisp panels. The chrome exterior trim is all in excellent order,
and it rides on attractive chrome Kelsey Hayes-style wire wheels.
It also features a Sport Roadster-style removable fiberglass
tonneau with built-in headrest fairings. A highlight of these early
60s Thunderbirds is the fabulous interior. This car is no
exception, with two-tone blue upholstery, bucket seats, a broad
center console, and fluted aluminum trim wrapping around the door
panels, dash, and center stack. The swing-away steering column
allows for easy ingress, and the thin-rimmed wheel provides that
classically American fingertip control. Instruments and switchgear
are all in excellent order, and options include power seats, an
AM/FM radio, power windows, factory air conditioning, and a power
top. The outstanding attention to detail is most apparent under the
hood, where the Z-Code 390 cubic inch V8 rests between the fenders.
Details like proper Ford "tower" hose clamps, and factory-correct
decals, labels, and markings point to a well-researched and
meticulous restoration. It retains the original-style piston-type
A/C compressor and features correct gold-painted air cleaner and
matching Thunderbird valve covers. Equipment includes power
steering and power brakes, ensuring this T-bird cruises
effortlessly down this highway. Ford's 1963 Thunderbird is one of
the most enjoyable and uniquely stylish American cars of the
period. Legions of enthusiastic owners and strong parts support
make it an excellent choice for a first classic, while this car's
superb quality means it would be at home in virtually any
established collection. This car is among the best third-generation
T-birds we've encountered, and it is an ideal family-friendly
classic to enjoy on the open road or for showing with the AACA or
any number of specialist clubs. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6716-1963-ford-thunderbird-convertible/
