Introduced for 1961, the third-generation Ford Thunderbird was more luxurious than it was sporty; the following year, the Sports Roadster was introduced to bring back the model's performance-oriented presence. This rare specification is easily distinguishable from other Thunderbirds of this generation by its removable fiberglass tonneau cover, which covers the rear seats and makes for a more streamlined appearance. Additionally, all Sports Roadsters were equipped with Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels and fitted with a special front fender emblem and a passenger grab bar. Rear wheel skirts were deleted.
In total, just 1,427 Thunderbird Sports Roadsters were built for its inaugural year-a low figure partially attributed to the substantial $651 premium needed to option a new Thunderbird as such.
Offered here is a highly presentable example which has been refinished in its original Rangoon Red over Black vinyl interior and Black convertible top. Built at Ford's Wixom plant, it was delivered new to Rett White Motor Sales in Walnut Creek, California. The chassis retains its factory features-including the three-speed "Cruise-O-Matic" automatic transmission, push-button radio, "Magic Aire" heater, tinted glass, power windows, power seats and chrome side mirror. A modern air conditioning system was added a later date as well. A set of correct-looking wire wheels are presently shod 205/75R15 Hankook whitewall tires.
Highlights:
One of 1,427 Sports Roadsters produced for the 1962 model year
Documented with original Ford factory build sheet
Listed in the Sports Roadster Registry
Receipts totaling over $47,000 for recent comprehensive mechanical restoration
Air conditioning
Rebuilt Z-code 390 cubic inch engine
Rebuilt Cruise-O-Matic transmission
Power windows
Power seats
This particular chassis is a "Z-code" example powered by a 390 cubic-inch big-block V-8 engine, which uses a four-barrel Holley carburetor to deliver a factory-rated 300 hp to the rear wheels. Recently, over $47,000 worth of mechanical restoration went into this Sports Roadster, including a complete engine, transmission and rear end rebuild, new master cylinder and brake system overhaul, new front and rear springs, ball joints, control arm bushings, rebuilt power steering pump, rebuilt drive shaft and fuel system. Also added was an aluminum radiator with dual electric fans, MSD ignition, chrome "Power by Ford" valve covers and a chrome open-element air cleaner. Receipts documenting this extensive restoration work are included with the car.
This rare Bird is documented by a copy of its original Ford build sheet with VIN number specifying that it is a real Sports Roadster. The car is listed in the Thunderbird Registry as a genuine Sports Roadster as well.
Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadsters have always had a keen following for their unique styling, and this documented example would be a wonderful addition to any Thunderbird collection. Call today!
