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Check the Trunk, Not the Engine Bay: 1960 Ford Thunderbird Emerges With Original Block

1960 Ford Thunderbird 17 photos
Photo: eBay seller ty6374
1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird1960 Ford Thunderbird
The second-generation Thunderbird landed in 1958 with decent production numbers, as Ford built close to 38,000 units. However, the star of this generation was the 1960 model year, which witnessed a significant increase from the previous year.
The American carmaker shipped 67,456 T-Birds in 1959, with the production rising to nearly 93,000 units in 1960. The convertible accounted for 11,860 units, though the most desirable configuration was the T-Bird sporting a sunroof. Only 2,500 units with this option rolled off the assembly lines.

The 1960 Thunderbird that landed on eBay a few days ago still flexes the original 390, though the car has more surprises in the trunk than under the hood.

eBay seller ty6374 explains that the original block is still available, but most engine parts are in the trunk, possibly as someone removed them for a rebuild. The project has never been completed, so whoever buys the car will have to finish the work.

As an Arizona example, the 1960 T-Bird flexes clean undersides. The rust isn't a big concern, though you'll find such damage on the front wheel well. The best option is to put the Thunderbird on a lift and inspect everything thoroughly, especially if you plan an overhaul to factory specifications.

The project won't be easy and certainly isn't aimed at the faint of heart. A 1960 Thunderbird whose chances to return to the factory setup are pretty solid is rare, so the car deserves to leave for a skilled restorer who knows what an original model is all about. The interior is in good shape, though incomplete. The owner says you won't get the door panels and possibly other parts, too, so you must closely inspect the cabin to see what else is missing.

The car landed on eBay a few hours ago, and the owner didn't configure a reserve, meaning that a single bid is enough to guarantee a second chance for this car. The digital fight will end in approximately seven days, with the fight starting at $2,000. It's a matter of time until someone spots this Thunderbird and decides to give it a second chance despite the 1960 model year not necessarily being a desirable iteration.

A 1960 Thunderbird could make for a great daily driver, though the original parts still leave the door open for a return to factory specifications, turning it into a collectible wannabe.

The Thunderbird is currently parked in Maricopa, Arizona, and you'll need a trailer to take it home, considering most of the engine is in the trunk. You'll also need a good mechanic to tell you how much work the original 390 block would require before returning to a working shape and putting the wheels in motion on this T-Bird.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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