For Sale at Auction: 1962 Ford Thunderbird in Las Vegas, Nevada

Chassis No. 2Y89M157112

While the enlargement of the Thunderbird into a four-passenger car proved excellent for sales, buyers continued to pester Ford for the return of a two-passenger model. In response, for 1962, the third generation "Bullet Bird" became available as a limited-production Sports Roadster. The "top-of-the-line" Ford featured a sleek fiberglass tonneau that fit over the rear seat, a passenger-side grab handle on the dashboard, unique chrome badging, sporty Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels, and no rear fender skirts. Aimed at the upper echelon of Ford's clientele, Elvis Presley would take delivery of a brand-new Thunderbird Sports Roadster in 1962, among many other celebrities. The Sports Roadster would be produced for just two seasons, 1962 and 1963. Just 1,427 were built in 1962, of which only 120 featured the rare and powerful 390 cu-in V8 "Tri-Power" engine topped by triple Holley carburetors.

According to a copy of the original Ford factory invoice on file, this rare "M-Code" Thunderbird Sports Roadster was assembled at the Wixom plant and invoiced new to O'Donohue Ford Sales, Inc. of Muncie, Indiana, on 4 April 1962. The car was finished as it appears today sporting a Raven Black exterior, equipped with the large 390 cu-in V8 engine fed through no less than three Holley two-barrel carburetors, and optioned with push-button radio and outside mirror. The staggering cost was nearly $6,000, discounted some by promotional incentives. The "Lincoln Security" stamp was punched on 12 April 1962, at 9:29 a.m., and the top-of-the-line Thunderbird would have soon after been on its way to the Hoosier State.

Offered from 12-year ownership by a prominent Bay Area, California-based collector, the rare 1962 "M-Code" Thunderbird Sports Roadster is presented today in beautifully restored condition, professionally repainted in as-delivered Raven Black. Casting numbers and date codes fall into the right sequence and suggest the car retains its original mechanical components. Under current ownership, the car has received a new radiator, exhaust system, fuel lines, as well as attention to the braking system and carburetors.

One of just 120 "M-Code" Thunderbird Sports Roadsters produced sporting the powerful 340-horsepower, 390 cu-in V8 engine, this fine example offers effortless cruising aided by a host of luxurious amenities including a fully hydraulic, power-retractable convertible top. The "M-Code" Thunderbird is offered with manuals and the aforementioned copy of the original Ford factory invoice and would be a great addition to any collection of mid-century American collector cars.