1962 Ford Thunderbird Sport Roadster
As Grand Touring cars began increasing in popularity, especially in the United States, American car manufacturers began looking at ways to combine attributes of both the luxury and sports cars that already proved popular with American buyers. The Ford Thunderbird revolutionized the personal luxury car segment, continuing the focus on comfort with the added benefit of high performance for the open roads. With similar performance to Chevrolet's new Corvette and significantly higher personal luxury, it was no surprise that the Thunderbird sold a record-breaking 21,380 in 1957 alone. Its success would continue with the following generations, now sold as four-seaters. For 1961, Ford introduced an entirely redesigned Thunderbird. Its unique bullet-shaped body gave the car a more sport-oriented look with performance matched by a brand new 390 cubic-inch V8 producing 300 horsepower. The new Thunderbird was a hit. It featured in John F. Kennedy's inaugural parade, Hollywood films, and frequently purchased by celebrities, quickly becoming a pop-culture icon.
This 1962 Ford THunderbird "Sports Roadster" is the epitome of the American personal luxury vehicle. Finished in Cascade Green over a black interior, this classic color combination suits the third-generation T-Bird's bullet-shaped body perfectly. The Sport Roadster comes equipped with its original fiberglass tonneau cover and 48-spoke Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels. Along with special badging, this highly desirable package gives the already athletic T-Bird a more sport-oriented look. The 390 cubic-inch V8 engine performs beautifully, sending 300 horsepower to the rear wheels through a 3-speed Cruise-O Matic transmission. It is a joy to drive and provides the comfort and performance one would expect from Ford's iconic flagship roadster.
