RARE SPORTS ROADSTER! ORIGINAL 390 V8, R134 AC, TILT-AWAY COLUMN, SMOOTH CRUISER

1962 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster Description

Ford Thunderbirds of the early '60s always had an undeniable "cool" factor, prompting their inclusion in iconic TV shows ('77 Sunset Strip) and none other than John F. Kennedy's own inaugural motorcade. Factor in its powerful drivetrain and the promise of inspired open-air motoring and that factor soars ever higher in the form of this 1962 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster.
Ford made some fairly major design changes to the Thunderbird just a year before this one rolled out and you can see the results of their handiwork in the bullet-like shape - more generously proportioned yet sleeker than its predecessors. It's carrying its original chestnut brown color, a great shade with a coppery undertone that catches your eye, but still remains understated enough to be in perfect lockstep with a model that encapsulates effortless style. The Thunderbird's shape is so distinctive with its top lowered that you rarely see it pictured otherwise, and the included sport top adds an even greater visual impact - extending over the rear seat to create the roadster effect. Rest assured that in less forgiving climate, the power white vinyl convertible top will raise into place to protect you and your passengers from the elements, and even features a still-clear plastic, one-piece rear window. Missing exterior pieces are a common sight with vintage cars, so it's good to see that all chrome trim and badging is present and accounted for, though some attention would definitely bring it to the next level. Both the front and rear bumpers are straight and level.
Open the driver's door and slide behind the wheel and you'll see that the aforementioned "cool" factor extends to the interior. Decked out in the same shade of brown to match the exterior, it's a great representative of early '60s automotive styling and features what was considered, in its time, a truly revolutionary interior enhancement - a swing away steering column. No mere tilt feature, this entire column swings about 18" to the right to provide an easy exit. Both the low-backed buckets in front and bench seat in back have come through the years impressively well, still well-padded and comfortable. Beyond the original steering wheel lies one of this T-Bird's most notable styling features - a truly one of a kind dash area made up of a generous expanse of textured chrome trim that extends the width of the cabin, with a set of surprisingly clear gauges residing just above. The factory air conditioning has been converted to accommodate modern 134-A refrigerant, and it blows impressively strong to keep you and your passengers comfortable. Just beneath the deck lid, which raises backwards towards the rear of the car, you'll find a full-sized spare sitting securely in the well-kept and spacious trunk area.
A 390 cubic inch V8 sits underneath the hood. With a 4-barrel carburetor sitting on top, this powerplant packs 300 horsepower in its still-original configuration and is mated with a 3-speed Cruise O Matic automatic transmission. Its drivetrain is in impressive form so this classic is every bit as fun to drive as it is to look at and, with both power steering and power brakes, driving is a low-effort endeavor, as well. This stylish, early '60s Ford classic sits on a set of 14" Kelsey Hayes spoked wheels, outfitted with Hankook radials.
With its outstanding styling and a premium drivetrain, this 1962 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster is a highly coveted '60s droptop you really need to see. Call today!