1966 Ford Thunderbird Convertible Q Code 428 V8

Description

This amazing Thunderbird represents an era of the American automobile when one could enjoy uncompromising design,engineering and true style! The sales literature for the model describes “The Personal Touch in Luxury” and the Thunderbird answered the call then and still does today!

This particular Thunderbird is a beautiful example of the marque. Over the years it has been lovingly cared for.The previous owner related it was purchased new in Denver, Colorado at O’Meara Ford by Denver Bronco’s legend Floyd Little. In 1976, Little and his Thunderbird traveled to Santa Barbara, California. The T-Bird was later sold to a local collector and stayed in that area until 1988 when it was bought by Thomas Mitchell of Shadow Hills, California. It was acquired by the seller in2009.Floyd Little’s monogrammed front floor mats are still in the car.

This Thunderbird is a desirable Q-code which means it was factory equipped with Ford’s top of the line 428 cid V8 engine and 4-barrel carburetor which gave the car a horsepower rating of 345. It’s also equipped with factory Selectaire air conditioning that makes this cool car even cooler!Per the previous owner, the engine and transmission were professionally rebuilt roughly10,000miles ago. The car starts up and idles nicely. The Cruise-O-Matic transmission shifts smoothly without hesitation and the engine powers the car with authority down the road. Power-assisted steering has a nice feel but still allows for the “one-finger” approach to turning - when appropriate. The power-assisted brakes operate normally and it is important to note that for '66 front disc brakes were standard equipment. You can feel that this car was engineered for luxury and comfort whether driving in-town or on the interstate.

The body is straight and the painted finish looks terrific! The exterior chrome and stainless trim shine brightly. According to the vehicle’s data plate, it left the factory in Wimbledon White (Code M). Somewhere along the way the color was changed to Honeydew Yellow. It certainly suits this model and I can find no evidence that the car was ever white. There are also no signs of rust that I can find. Have a look at the many detailed photos including the underside of the car. The power convertible top operates as it should as do the power windows. The top was replaced so it is like new and the rear window is nice and clear. Raising or lowering the top is quite a spectacle and is always a showstopper. Kelsey Hayes wire wheels finish off the classic look and really sets this T-Bird apart from the rest.

The Thunderbird interior is amazing to behold not only because of its style, but its condition as well. The seats have been recovered with a factory-style kit including new seat foam. Carpeting was replaced as well. The industrial design of the 1966 Thunderbird transports you with its futuristic aircraft style. All the floating gauges, switches and levers operate as they should including the distinct thermometer-style speedometer. The car is equipped with a “Swing-Away” steering wheel making entry and exit easier. Also this 1966 model sports the iconic sequential rear directional signals and they work perfectly!

Here are the highlights of service work performed by the current owner:

-2009 Front brake rotors machined

-2011 Convertible top pump replaced

-2011 Turn signal motor replaced

-2012 Air conditioner serviced

-2012 Carburetor overhauled

-2012 Radiator flushed

-2013 Automatic transmission serviced

-2016 Upper and lower ball joints as well as control arm bushings replaced

-2016 Replaced accelerator pump and air conditionercompressor

-2017 Replaced carb linkage and coolant recovery bottle

-2017 Replaced brake master cylinder

The car drives and rides much like it must have in 1966. Perhaps the closest you’ll get to time travelthese days. Why is the owner selling such a great car? He loves it and has enjoyed driving it and sharing it but space and time constraints force him to let it go. It's time for its next caretaker.

Finer Details:

This car is more than 50 years old so there are a few things that aren’t perfect. I don’t want there to be any disappointments with the car so please read over this carefully. Ask any questions before selecting the buy-it-now.

- The factory radio is not working.

- Clock is not working

- The windshield has some of pitting from use.

- When turning right into a driveway, the right rear tire scrapes on the fenderskirtedge. Mechanics feel the non-factory Kelsey Hayes wheels may bethe culprit.

This is a great opportunity to possess a bit of that time when luxury automobiles were truly special and made a statement about their owners. This 1966 Thunderbird is a beautiful example that you can enjoy with pride and share with others.

Terms:

I am not the owner of the car – I am selling it here for a friend.

This car is in amazing condition - however it is a 52 year old automobile that has been driven and enjoyed. We have done our best to represent it accurately. The buyer is purchasing it as-is - no warranty is offered. The buyer is responsible for local pick-up and/or transport of the vehicle. We reserve the right to end the listing early as the car is for sale locally. Payment should be a bank-issued cashier's check or wire transfer. A $500 deposit is due within 24 hours after the auction. Balance must be settled within 7 days. Please ask all questionsbeforeselecting the buy-it-now.