In 1961, Ford introduced a totally restyled Thunderbird to replace the surprisingly successful second-generation “Square-Bird.” The space age had taken off, and the new T-Bird featured a crisp new rocket-like appearance. However, sales did drop from a high of 92,843 for 1960 to a little over 73,000 in 1961—of which 10,615 were convertibles. The new model was highly marketed, which included serving as the Indy 500 pace car and being prominently featured in President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural parade.
With a starting price of $4,639, the new Thunderbird was innovative beginning with Ford’s unique “Swing Away” steering wheel which, with the transmission in the park position, would slide 18-inches to the right to allow the driver a comfortable way to climb in and out. Another feature was the first application of the “floating” rear-view mirror that attached directly to the windshield.
The standard drivetrain in 1961 was a 300-horsepower, 390 cubic-inch V8 coupled to a three-speed automatic transmission. A manual gearbox was not offered. The option list was long with items like air conditioning, power windows and seats, AM radio, and fender skirts.
Aside from some subtle trim changes for 1962, the sheetmetal remained the same, but there were several big additions for this model year. From an appearance standpoint, buyers could add a Landau-style vinyl roof with S-shaped bars on the large rear pillars. Even more attractive, but rather costly, was the Sports Roadster package that added 48-spoke Kelsey-Hayes designed wire wheels and a fiberglass tonneau cover over the rear seats. This gave the T-Bird the appearance of a European two-seat roadster.
According to records, 78,011 Thunderbirds were produced during 1962 with 1,427 coming from the factory as Sports Roadsters. The rarest examples of the Roadster were powered by the optional “M-Code” upgraded version of the 390 V8, such as the one now offered on eBay. This engine was equipped with three two-barrel Holley carburetors and produced a whopping 340 horsepower. Between 1962 and 1963, only 119 examples of this extreme ‘Bird were produced.
The seller describes this car as one of just 40 documented M-Code Thunderbirds still on the road. The car’s complete history is not known, but a full research would not be that difficult. It appears to have undergone an outstanding and expensive restoration and would likely be welcomed at any concours d’ elegance.
But the real thrill would simply be cruising down the highway on a summer day with the Beach Boys’ tunes filling the air, accompanied by the sounds of that big V8.
