1966 FORD THUNDERBIRD CONVERTIBLE 2020 AACA SENIOR GRAND NATIONAL
When Ford introduced the stylish new two-seat Thunderbird in 1955, they were careful not to label it as a “sports car.” Ford watched Chevrolet struggle with Corvette sales, so they gave their new competitor a softer, more luxurious twist that was high in style, if not particularly sporty and nimble. The gamble paid off and a respectable 16,000 Thunderbirds found buyers in their first year - compared to a miniscule 700 Corvettes. The Thunderbird was certainly sporty - but marketing it as a “personal car” that appealed to a successful, style conscious buyer was a stroke of genius by Ford’s top brass.
For 1958, Ford made another bold move, taking the T-Bird upmarket, transforming it into a luxurious new four-seater that would define the Thunderbird name for decades to come. The four-seat “Personal Car” proved even more popular than the two-seat roadster, and Ford had yet another hit on its hands. For 1961, the T-Bird was dramatically restyled again with a distinct pointed nose and clean, slab-sided body. In 1964, the fourth-generation T-Bird debuted with a more formal, squared-off roofline and sculpted body sides. This new Thunderbird was the most luxurious to date.1966 was the last year of the fourth generation known for its squared-off styling, jet-age interior with a central console, and hidden convertible roof. This fourth generation (1964-1966) emphasized luxury over sportiness, featuring a standard 390ci V8 engine and a new full-width taillight design.
RB Collection is proud to offer this historic, unique, and meticulously restored 1966 FORD Thunderbird convertible, VIN#6YB5Z154803, with Vintage Burgundy (X) paint over White/Burgundy (G3) original interior, power window-vent, radio AM, rear speaker, and power antenna.
With documented ownership by just two individuals, this remarkable piece of history was originally delivered new by Selinsgrove Motors in Selinsgrove, PA. The first owner cherished this unique Thunderbird for nearly five decades before passing it on to its second and most recent owner in 2013. Under their care, the car underwent a meticulous restoration to concours standards. After participating in numerous AACA events, the Thunderbird was honored with the prestigious Senior Grand National award in 2020, a testament to its exceptional quality and authenticity.
This meticulously restored vehicle remains in stunning condition, having seen virtually no use since the completion of its restoration. It has only been driven to concours and special events, preserving its outstanding quality. The striking Burgundy paintwork is flawless, and every detail—right down to the engine bay—reflects the caliber of a truly top-tier restoration, with exceptional paint, excellent panel gaps, and authentic detailing throughout.
The original interior is equally impressive, showing minimal signs of wear and maintaining an exceptional level of preservation. Mechanically, this Thunderbird runs superbly, poised and ready for continued enjoyment at the highest level of concours events or club shows. Its 390 cubic inch V8 performs beautifully, paired with the smooth Cruise-O-Matic transmission.
Completing the unique features of this car, the sale includes the original Owner’s Manual, Owner card, Window Sticker, Build Sheet, and the original set of wheels with hubcaps.
This unique vehicle is probably the most awarded 1966 Thunderbird with the following awards and honors:
This iconic Thunderbird is a historic automobile and deserves to be part of the best collections in the world, the sale being a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most preserved and awarded FORD Thunderbird.
