Looking for Car Parts? Shop 1.5M+ at Distributor Pricing.

For Sale: 1961 Ford Thunderbird in Statesville, North Carolina

Vehicle Description

HIGHLIGHTS: • Incredible Provenance:Same California/North Carolina owner since 2000 (25+ years!). • Dry Climate History:Originally a California car; relocated to NC in 2017 with excellent structural integrity. • Classic Color Palette:Finished in Heritage Burgundy over a Light Pearl Beige interior. • Luxury Features: Equipped with Power Windows, Power Steering, Power Brakes, and the iconic ""Swing-Away"" steering column. • Big Block Power: 390ci V8 engine paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission. • Modern Amenities:Kenwood stereo system and added lap belts for safety and enjoyment. BODY OVERVIEW: The 1961 ""Bullet Bird"" design is a masterpiece of the jet-age era, looking more like a rocket ship than a traditional coupe. This example is a survivor of the dry California climate, boasting a solid underbody and frame which is the holy grail for T-Bird enthusiasts. The body panels are straight with good fitment, providing a fantastic foundation for a high-level driver. PAINT CONDITION OVERVIEW: Repainted years ago in its factory-correct Heritage Burgundy, the car retains a deep, classic shine that looks excellent at local cruise-ins. Transparency Note:As an older repaint, there are minor chips and scratches present, specifically a circular blemish above the driver's rear fender. It is a ""worry-free"" finish which is perfect for the owner who wants to drive and enjoy the car without obsessing over every road pebble. INTERIOR CONDITION OVERVIEW: The cabin is a standout feature, refinished in Light Pearl Beige leatherette seat covers that provide a stunning contrast to the dark burgundy exterior. The bucket seats and wrap-around dash offer a cockpit-like feel. While the interior shows beautifully, the steering wheel exhibits some age-related wear. The famous Swing-Away column functions as intended, making entry and exit an effortless conversation starter.Factory power windows and a Kenwood stereo add daily comfort to a vintage driving experience! MECHANICAL OVERVIEW: The 390ci V8 provides the smooth, effortless torque that defined the Thunderbird as a ""personal luxury"" car. It features a dual exhaust system with a subtle, authoritative rumble. Mechanical Note:The car currently runs and drives but would benefit from a carburetor rebuild to truly optimize its performance. This is an ideal ""Saturday morning project"" for the next owner to unlock the full potential of this big-block cruiser. WHAT YOU'LL LOVE ABOUT THIS CAR: • The ""Dry"" Factor: A genuine California car with a remarkably solid frame and floor pans. • Long-Term Stability: 25 years with the same owner speaks volumes about the car's history. • Jet-Age Style: The Swing-Away wheel and rocket-inspired lines never fail to draw a crowd. • Entry-Level Price: A big-block, big-style classic at a price point that leaves room for value growth. WHAT YOU MIGHT HATE ABOUT THIS CAR: • The ""Project"" Elements: The trunk area and engine bay are in ""survivor"" condition and would benefit from a weekend of detailing. • Minor Needs: The carburetor needs a refresh, and the blower motor/wipers are currently inoperative. • Paint Patina: Close inspection reveals the flaws typical of an older, enjoyed repaint. DOES IT NEED ANYTHING? • A carburetor rebuild/tune-up for peak drivability. • Attention to the wipers and blower motor. • Cosmetic detailing in the trunk and engine compartment. WHAT BUYER IS LOOKING FOR THIS CAR? This Thunderbird is for the ""Solid Ground"" buyer. Someone who prioritizes a rust-free, honest chassis over a trailer-queen paint job. If you are looking for a stylishclassic that you can improve over time while you drive it, this '61 'Bird is ready to take flight. Contact Rare Rides Company at 980-306-8100 or [email protected] for more information Rare Rides Company does not collect tax, tag or title fees. Title Status: CLEAN DOES IT WORK? Air Conditioning N/A Heater NO- Heater/Blower Inop Speedometer YES Odometer YES Oil PSI Gauge N/A Temperature Gauge YES Fuel Gauge YES Tachometer N/A Wipers NO Windows YES Horn YES Radio YES Headlights YES Tail Lights YES Brake Lights YES Reverse Lights YES Turn Signals YES Emergency Brake YES- Weak 4x4/AWD N/A Tire Condition: High tread, 2016 date code Keys - Ignition YES, Door YES, Trunk YES Seatbelts Front: YES Rear: YES Runs & Drives YES

Vehicle Details

  • 1961 Ford Thunderbird
  • Listing ID: CC-2073332
  • Price: $18,995
  • Location:Statesville, North Carolina
  • Year:1961
  • Make:Ford
  • Model:Thunderbird
  • Exterior Color:Red
  • Interior Color:White
  • Transmission:Automatic
  • Odometer:69232
  • Stock Number:2958R
  • VIN:1Y71Z146613
Listed By:
Rare Ride Company
128 Innovation Dr.
Statesville, NC 28677

Contact Seller

Characters /500
 Sign me up for the Newsletter
By contacting this seller you accept
ClassicCars.com Visitors Agreement.
Interested in something else? Search these similar vehicles...