The 1966 Ford Thunderbird Convertible, with its bold design and luxurious features, stands as one of the most iconic American cars of its era. This particular example, acquired by its current owner in 2023, is a stunning representation of the Thunderbird’s legacy, finished in a sleek Silver Mink exterior paired with a Silver Mink vinyl interior. Its power comes from a robust 390ci V8 engine, delivering 315 horsepower, paired with a Cruise-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission, making this a dream for collectors and classic car enthusiasts alike.
A Glimpse into its Unique Features
This Thunderbird’s allure extends beyond its striking Silver Mink finish. The vehicle comes equipped with a power-retractable blue soft top, an impressive chrome-finished wrap-around front bumper, and signature quad headlights that give it a distinctive, commanding presence. The sequential rear turn signals and full-width taillights provide a perfect balance of style and functionality, while the chrome rear bumper and gun-sight front turn signals add to its 1960s flair.
Mounted on 15-inch steel wheels with tri-spoke Thunderbird covers, the car features 225/75 Broadway tires for a smooth ride. Power steering, power-assisted front disc brakes, and rear drums ensure excellent handling and stopping power. The retractable top mechanism has been rebuilt, ensuring reliable operation for open-air drives.
Luxurious Interior Craftsmanship
The interior of this Thunderbird is as refined as its exterior. Upholstered in Silver Mink vinyl, the shell-contour front bucket seats and curved rear bench exude comfort and luxury. Refurbishment work done in 2023 included repainting the vinyl and re-dyeing sections of the carpet, breathing new life into the cabin. The power-adjustable front seats, power windows, and front and rear center armrests ensure a relaxed driving experience. Other conveniences include a swing-away steering wheel, aftermarket cassette stereo, cruise control, and SelectAire air conditioning, making it a comfortable ride for long trips.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, this Thunderbird houses a 390ci V8 engine, which was originally factory-rated at 315 horsepower and 427 lb-ft of torque. The four-barrel carburetor, spark plugs, plug wires, and ignition coil were replaced in 2023, ensuring the engine runs smoothly. However, there is a noted exhaust manifold leak on the rear two cylinders, with a ticking sound under acceleration that may require attention. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a Cruise-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission, offering a seamless driving experience.
Notable Condition and Work Done
Though this Thunderbird shines with its striking Silver Mink exterior and matching interior, a few minor imperfections are noted. These include a repaired rust bubble on the lower driver’s door, a scratch on the rear window plastic, and a small spot of missing chrome on the rear bumper. Additionally, the vacuum central locking hoses need replacement, and there is some wear on the driver’s seat.
Despite these minor issues, the Thunderbird remains a true classic, with a combination of powerful performance and timeless design. Offered with a clean Georgia title, this car is an excellent opportunity for collectors looking to own a piece of 1960s automotive history.
Key Specifications:
- Model Year: 1966
- Engine: 390ci V8, factory-rated at 315 horsepower and 427 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: Cruise-O-Matic three-speed automatic
- Exterior Color: Silver Mink
- Interior Color: Silver Mink vinyl
- Mileage: 22k miles (approx. 10 miles added under current ownership)
- Production: One of approximately 5,050 convertible Thunderbirds produced in 1966
- Key Features: Power-retractable blue soft top, SelectAire air conditioning, power-adjustable front seats, aftermarket cassette stereo, cruise control, swing-away steering wheel
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
