Description
UTAC | Millbrook, Bedford
Viewing: Tues 24th June from 12pm
Auction: Wed 25th June from 9am
Location: Millbrook Proving Ground, Station Lane, Bedford MK45 2JQ
1965 Ford Thunderbird Convertible
Estimate
£12, 000 - £14, 000
Registration No: BTL 321L
Chassis No: 5Ythe details below
MOT: May 2026
Fitted with a 302 ‘HO’, small-block 302 cu in (5. 0 L) V8 engine
Imported to the United Kingdom in 1973
Subject to a previous extensive restoration some c. 10 years ago
Offered with a large history file including a photo album of restoration images
By the time Ford dispensed (at least temporarily) with the Thunderbird moniker in 2005, the model had progressed through no less than 11 generations, the combined production total of which was in excess of 4. 4 million. It had also been immortalised by the Beach Boys' hit song Fun Fun Fun. The first generation car hit the streets in October 1954 and, while it was created in direct response to Chevrolet's Corvette, Ford's emphasis was more on comfort than overt sportiness. Though sleeker than most of its Ford siblings, it shared many of their components and the 292ci (4. 8-litre) V8 engine was borrowed from the company's Mercury division. By the time the fourth generation appeared in 1964, the T-Bird was an altogether larger proposition, with four rather than two seats and power from a 6. 4-litre V8 of either 300bhp or 330bhp, mated to a three-speed automatic gearbox. The styling reflected the trend for twin headlamps and by 1965 disc brakes had become standard fare for the front wheels. There was the choice of Coupe, Convertible or Landau body styles; each equally imposing in their own way.
Manufactured in 1965, the fourth generation T-Bird offered arrived on British shores in 1973. The beneficiary of a previous extensive restoration which is understood to have been some 10-15 years ago which included a full bodywork restoration and repaint in the striking Red colour scheme it presents today, mechanical overhaul, and interior re-trim. The Thunderbird now features a 302 ‘HO’, small-block 302 cu in (5. 0 L) V8 engine, as well as a having a fully operational electric power hood in Cream, matching the slot mag style wheels. Offered with a large history file, this includes a photo album of restoration images, collection of invoices, a no advisory MOT until May next year, workshop manual, and current V5C document.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
