Vehicle Description
Introduced for 1961, the third-generation Ford Thunderbird was more
luxurious than it was sporty; the following year, the Sports
Roadster was introduced to bring back the model's
performance-oriented presence. This rare specification is easily
distinguishable from other Thunderbirds of this generation by its
removable fiberglass tonneau cover, which covers the rear seats and
makes for a more streamlined appearance. Additionally, all Sports
Roadsters were equipped with Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels and fitted
with a special front fender emblem and a passenger grab bar. Rear
wheel skirts were deleted.
In total, just 1,427 Thunderbird Sports Roadsters were built for
its inaugural year-a low figure partially attributed to the
substantial $651 premium needed to option a new Thunderbird as
such.
Offered here is a highly presentable example which has been
refinished in its original Rangoon Red over Black vinyl interior
and Black convertible top. Built at Ford's Wixom plant, it was
delivered new to Rett White Motor Sales in Walnut Creek,
California. The chassis retains its factory features-including the
three-speed "Cruise-O-Matic" automatic transmission, push-button
radio, "Magic Aire" heater, tinted glass, power windows, power
seats and chrome side mirror. A modern air conditioning system was
added a later date as well. A set of correct-looking wire wheels
are presently shod 205/75R15 Hankook whitewall tires.
Highlights:
One of 1,427 Sports Roadsters produced for the 1962 model year
Documented with original Ford factory build sheet
Listed in the Sports Roadster Registry
Receipts totaling over $47,000 for recent comprehensive mechanical
restoration
Air conditioning
Rebuilt Z-code 390 cubic inch engine
Rebuilt Cruise-O-Matic transmission
Power windows
Power seats
This particular chassis is a "Z-code" example powered by a 390
cubic-inch big-block V-8 engine, which uses a four-barrel Holley
carburetor to deliver a factory-rated 300 hp to the rear wheels.
Recently, over $47,000 worth of mechanical restoration went into
this Sports Roadster, including a complete engine, transmission and
rear end rebuild, new master cylinder and brake system overhaul,
new front and rear springs, ball joints, control arm bushings,
rebuilt power steering pump, rebuilt drive shaft and fuel system.
Also added was an aluminum radiator with dual electric fans, MSD
ignition, chrome "Power by Ford" valve covers and a chrome
open-element air cleaner. Receipts documenting this extensive
restoration work are included with the car.
This rare Bird is documented by a copy of its original Ford build
sheet with VIN number specifying that it is a real Sports Roadster.
The car is listed in the Thunderbird Registry as a genuine Sports
Roadster as well.
Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadsters have always had a keen following
for their unique styling, and this documented example would be a
wonderful addition to any Thunderbird collection. Call today!
