Restored car in very good, factory-correct condition
Beautiful example of classic ‘60s Americana
Thick history file with lots of ongoing maintenance
390CI V8 290bhp coupe with 2+2 practicality
The Appeal
The original Thunderbird practically invented the very American ‘personal luxury’ car. This was a sports car that was both quick and cossetting.
The restyled fourth generation from ‘64 stuck true to this formula but with a more formal, modern style. As usual, beneath the hood was a mouthwatering choice of potent V8s.
This 390CI 6.4litre Thunderbird was factory built in June 1965 and arrived in the UK in 1999. It is a reminder of just how magnificent these cars are, combining sleek, unfussy styling with some neat detailing.
This one is in very good condition with a thick history file attesting to sparing use and regular maintenance. There is also a useful factory specification sheet from Thunderbirds of England that shows the Wimbledon white paintwork is factory correct. Now fitted with a sumptuous red leather interior (code 25) it is hard to know whether to sit and admire it or drive and enjoy it.
Whichever you choose, this is a beautiful and much-loved example of one of America’s motoring greats.
History and Paperwork
Manufactured on 15th June 1965
First registered in the USA later that year
First UK registered on 1st January 1999
Eight registered keepers since arriving in the UK
Vendor acquired the car on 5th June 2018
Since purchase he has attended to minor paintwork repairs done and fitted a new battery
He advises that a former registered keeper was the Marquis of Bute
Stored in an air conditioned barn
Original handbooks and parts catalogues included
Thick history file with raft of older invoices
Electrics attended to in 2019 and custom exhaust fitted
Factory specification details provided by Thunderbirds of England
Older MOTs to help buyer verify mileage
Registered as a Historic Vehicle and therefore MOT and tax exempt
Last MOT expired on 14th July 2017 with 45,950 miles showing and no advisories
The Condition
Hard Top model finished in factory correct Wimbledon White
Paintwork in good order with only light marks to note in photographs
Bodywork presents well with only small area of bubbling to driver’s side rear wing
Retains its factory fitted original exterior trim all in well kept condition
Sits on whitewalls with chrome trims and red embellishers
Tidy underside with no rust visible
Older restoration that has held up well thanks to air conditioned storage
Practical and spacious four seater configuration
Beautiful interior finished in red that retains all its original features
Red seat trim in good order with no noticeable marks
Interior fittings are well kept and complete
Fitted with a Thunderbirds-branded, period-style modern radio cassette
We are told that all gauges are functional
Vendor reports that the electric windows can be a little temperamental
Fully trimmed boot with check finish showing light water damage
Rear nearside indicator reported to be not working
The Mechanics
390CI 6.4litre 290bhp Ford V8 engine
3spd ‘Cruise-O-Matic’ automatic gearbox with column shift
Vendor advises slight oil leaks from engine and transmission
Reported to drive very well with plenty of power
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
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Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
More about buying with us
1965 Ford Thunderbird
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