In 1958, ord doubled the number of seats and double the number of sales with their all-new Thunderbird. For 1959, he year this handsome red T-bird was built, ales were even stronger, nd it's quite likely that without this trailblazing car, he Thunderbird would not have survived. Known as the square Birds due to their angular styling, hese are extremely handsome cars. This one has been nicely restored to a very high standard, howing great attention to detail and a lot of effort spent on getting everything straight. Despite the nickname, he cars actually have a lot of intricate shapes that were surely a challenge to stamp properly when they were new and doubly challenging to restore properly. Note the peaked tailfins, he pointed side trim, nd the graceful body line stretching from the headlights down through the door. Ford's obsession with the jet age continued, nd this Thunderbird features four round taillights that give the 'Bird a very distinctive look. All the chrome is beautifully restored, ncluding the massive front grille/bumper assembly which probably cost thousands all by itself. This is one of those cars that will show you something new every time you look at it. Inside, he lovely black and white bucket seat interior offers a full-sized back seat, o you aren't limited to just one passenger. The seats feature correct patterns and materials, long with a center console that houses the radio speaker and climate controls. Matching door panels seem to echo the sweeping body line on the outside sheetmetal, long with an interesting embossed design along the bottom edges. Fresh black carpets are protected by Thunderbird-logo floor mats, nd the dash continued Ford's cockpit theme. A complete array of gauges is housed in a brightly polished panel and they appear to be completely original, nd restoration photos show this was a fairly clean car to begin with. Check out how the numbers on the speedometer flip between 120 and 130, s if you'll need to assess your speed at a glance. This car received Ford's H-code 352 cubic inch V8, hich was rated at a nice, ound 300 horsepower, significant jump over the 2-seater 'Birds. The neatly finished engine bay has a very industrial look to it, ut I suspect the effect is intentional, ith a background of satin black framing a minimalist Ford Blue engine. The original air cleaner is still fitted, s are the original valve covers, hich are simple stampings that suit the engine just fine. It starts quickly and easily with a pleasant muted rumble from the dual exhaust, nd the 3-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission clicks through the gears with authority. The undercarriage is original and solid, ith clean floors and frame. Standard steel wheels wear full wheelcovers with spinners, s well as a set of 225/75/14 whitewall radials. The market seems to have rediscovered the 4-seater Thunderbird, nd there are few better ways to travel than Ford's upscale personal luxury car. Call today!
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