Even though this Ford Thunderbird coupe is over 50 years old, it has, according to its previous owner, until quite recently been used as a daily driver. With a production year of 1964, it is a so-called “Flair Bird”, the fourth generation of Thunderbird which was built in this shape from 1964 to 1966. The most noticable design change lies in the more squared-off appearance. The 1964 models are, by the way, the only ones to have “Thunderbird” written on the bonnet, rather than the bird’s image.
In the engine bay you’ll find the typical 6.4 litre V8 motor which produces an estimated 220 kW (300 hp) of power. It is paired with the 3-speed automatic transmission. The odometer shows an unwarranted mileage of 91,000 mls.
The interior is apparently still in its original condition and makes a cared-for impression, with traces of wear and tear of an appropriate degree. The paintwork of the hardtop coupe is decent enough.
This T-Bird is being offered with its US title.
We distinguish a total of 11 generations, from the “Classic Bird” and “Square Bird” of the 50s, via “Bullet Bird”, “Flair Bird” and “Glamour Bird” of the 1960s, “Big Bird” and “Torino Bird” of the 1970s, and “Box Bird”, “Aero Bird”, “Super Bird” of the 80s / 90s all the way to the “Retro Bird”, which from 2002 to 2005 attempted a not-so successful revival.
In the models before 1980, you’d find the enormous, thirsty V8 engines with capacities up to 7.5 litres – typically American. After years of “longer, wider, heavier” the trend was reversed, with later model Thunderbirds being lighter and sportier again.