Lot 353: 1965 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

Ford's answer to the Chevrolet Corvette, the Thunderbird was introduced in 1965 and, though similar, it was different in many ways to the Corvette and other small sports cars on the American market. The Thunderbird, however, was created as a 'personal luxury' car and even up to the current production version it has never been purpose-designed as a sports car. Instead of the Chevrolet's fibreglass, the Thunderbird was constructed in metal and instead of six cylinder engines, Ford upped-the-ante with a 6,391cc V8 motor; producing 300bhp at 4,600rpm and 427lb/ft it propelled the big car from 0-60mph in 10.3 seconds and onto 115mph, allied to effortless cruising. To keep cost and development at a minimum, it used as many parts as possible from the other Fords of that era. The result was a two-seater with many creature comforts and impressive styling and the choice of either four speed manual or three speed automatic transmission, while the supple suspension provided a plush ride. The instrument panel was home to a tachometer, clock and a 150 mph speedometer. Offered today is a fine example of this American icon. Manufactured in 1965, the car is fitted with the automatic 'box and finished in Old English white with a black interior. The car has been uprated with the disc brakes that were introduced in '65 and it also features power assisted brakes and steering, making the car a comfortable cruiser. Fitted to GPV 168C is a new hood and a top of the range sound system consisting of nine speakers and a multi-disc CD changer, all discretely fitted; to keep the period feel of the interior a retro' radio/cassette is also fitted. Overall the car, which is supplied with V5 registration document and a MoT test certificate valid until July next year, is described as being in very good condition and mechanically it is said to be in excellent order.