M-Code 1962 Ford Thunderbird

OVERVIEW

This 1962 Ford Thunderbird hardtop has all-original equipment and only one owner, as reported by the seller. Power is supplied by an M-code version of the 390cid V8 and backed by an automatic transmission. Only 145 M-code Thunderbirds were reportedly built in 1962; 120 were the Sports Roadster model and 25 were the hardtop version like this Thunderbird. Features include a Swing-Away steering wheel; power windows, door locks, and driver’s seat; factory air conditioning; and 48-spoke Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels. Many new parts have been installed including the tires, brakes, fuel pump, fuel lines, brake booster, spark plugs, and wires. This Rangoon Red Thunderbird with a reported 58,874 original miles and a white leather interior comes with receipts, parts records, and a clear title.

EXTERIOR - FEATURES

This Rangoon Red Thunderbird hardtop reportedly still wears its factory chrome and stainless trim, emblems, and handles. The original headlights, grille, and bumper can be seen at the front. The factory bumper with integrated taillights and fuel door is mounted at the rear. The seller states a cosmetic piece at the bottom of the antenna is missing and there are spots of rust at the back wheel well.

EXTERIOR - WHEELS AND TIRES

A set of 14-inch chrome 48-spoke Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels with tri-bar center caps are wrapped in 215/75/14 Hankook Kinergy ST whitewall tires.

INTERIOR - FEATURES

The interior is furnished with original white leather front bucket seats with factory seat belts and a matching rear seat. This Thunderbird features the Swing-Away steering wheel. With the transmission in park, the steering wheel and column slide 18 inches to the right, allowing the driver to exit the cabin easily. The steering column is topped with a three-spoke white steering wheel with a chrome horn ring.

INTERIOR - GAUGES

The padded dashboard is white on the bottom and contrasting gold on the top, split by ribbed trim that flows down into the center console, which houses a 120-mph speedometer, a clock, and a fuel/temperature gauge. The odometer shows 58,874, which the seller states is accurate.

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

The engine is an M-code version of the 390cid V8. The M-code option featured three two-barrel Holley carburetors and produced 340 horsepower. Factory chrome valve covers, a finned open-element air cleaner, and new spark plugs and wires complete the engine. Factory power brakes, air conditioning, power steering, and a mechanical radiator fan can be found under the hood.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

This Thunderbird previously appeared on AutoHunter in February 2022, but it is being relisted at a lower reserve price than before. According to the seller, it was purchased by the late Aurelbelle Shaffer, who was the wife of the late Raymond Shaffer, the former president of Greyhound. Aurelbelle drove this Thunderbird as her second car and always kept it parked under a carport in Scottsdale, Arizona. In 1992, the car was placed in a storage facility in Arizona and kept there until it was moved to Georgia in 2010. The car remains in a building and has only been driven on and off a car-hauling transport vehicle since being placed in storage. Receipts for parts and service work will be included in the sale.