For Sale at Auction: 1962 Ford Thunderbird in Amelia Island, Florida

Chassis No. 2Y89M149460

The original Ford Thunderbird debuted in 1955 as a stylish, performance-minded two-seat roadster-prioritizing comfort, flair, and V8 power. After three years of the short-lived second generation "Square Bird," the third generation "Bullet Bird" arrived in 1961, harkening back to the beloved original with a modern twist. For 1962 the limited-production two-seat Sports Roadster was distinguished by its fiberglass rear tonneau, passenger-side grab handle, chrome badging, fender skirt delete, and Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels. Built only in 1962 and 1963, it became one of the era's most exclusive Thunderbirds. Of the 1,427 produced for 1962, just 120 received the rare M-Code high compression 390 cu-in "Tri-Power" V8 with triple Holley carburetors, making them the most coveted of all.

Focusing on rare and limited production variants, it was only natural for the renowned Ford and Lincoln collector Jerry Capizzi to add this exceptional M-Code Sports Roadster with factory Selectaire air conditioning to his collection. Capizzi demanded the best and, as a result, it was treated to a full and comprehensive restoration to return the car to better than new condition. Restored in stunning Raven Black over a Red interior, it was rewarded with success at shows across the country, earning First Place as well as the Larry Seyfarth Best of Show award at the 1993 Vintage Thunderbird Club International (VTCI) National Convention. A slew of AACA awards followed, including its First Junior at the AACA Central Division Spring Meet in Clear Lake, Iowa, then its Senior Award at the Eastern Division Fall Meet in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and a First Place Senior at the 1994 VTCI National Convention in Syracuse, New York. Additional AACA honors follow in 1995 and 1996 with a Grand National First Place at the Annual Grand Nationals in Moline, Illinois and a Senior Grand National during the Annual Grand Nationals meet in Huntsville, Alabama-the club's highest honors and toughest to receive. Capizzi's success showing his cars was so prolific it was often said that the other entrants in his class were only there to fight over second place!

One of just 120 M-Code Sport Roadsters ever produced, this powerful and luxurious Thunderbird is no doubt one of the finest examples currently on offer. Displaying just 105 miles since its restoration over 30 years ago, the car is noted to still look fresh today. Its highly decorated AACA and VTCI pedigree coupled with marque expert Jerry Capizzi's long-term ownership marks this rare Bullet Bird as a special find for those seeking only the most intriguing and beautifully restored mid-century American collector cars.