Highlights

Fully restored in 2016 with very few kilometres since then
Rare roadster kit, one of only 1,400 made
Complete history file with numerous invoices
Ford FE 438 Stroker 7.0-litre engine and reinforced front brakes

The Appeal

In many ways, the Ford Thunderbird epitomises the American car of the 1960s - and Ford's eagerness to conquer as much market share as possible. Originally released as a two-seater luxury roadster, the Thunderbird was quickly transformed into a four-seater to better capture the spirit of the times.

Although it was an undeniable success, the American public quickly reacted by buying kits to transform it back into a two-seater. There were a few, but only around 1,400 of the polyester roadster kit with which this car is equipped were produced. The result is a very dynamic machine, perfectly capturing the bold and flamboyant era of chrome-covered cars of the 1960s.

This excellent example, formerly based in Illinois, underwent a complete restoration in 2016, with the installation of an impressive 7.0-litre Ford Stroker engine, reinforced brakes and a new gearbox. Sporting an imposing black livery combined with bright chrome accents, this car does not go unnoticed.

History and Paperwork

Registered in 1963
Previously based in Illinois
Restored and upgraded in 2016
Imported into France in 2017
Roadworthiness valid until May 2026
Currently shows 22,528 miles (36,255 km) on a five-digit odometer

The Condition

Bodywork fully restored, very high quality workmanship
Paintwork redone 10 years ago
Some light scratches and swirl marks
Chrome parts in very good condition
Windows and headlights in good condition
Soft top fitted in 2016
Boot cylinder replaced in 2024
Two new tyres fitted in 2021
Solid underbody with only minor surface wear
Interior restored 8 years ago, in very good condition
Vinyl has no tears or holes
All instruments are clear and legible
Customsound radio installed

The Mechanics

Ford FE 438 Stroker 7,000cc engine installed in 2016
4-speed automatic transmission, fitted on the same date
Engine compartment in excellent condition
Front brakes reinforced and many new parts fitted
Rear brakes rebuilt in 2018
New starter, voltmeter, battery switch, radio aerial, windscreen washer pump, fuel pump and complete exhaust system installed
LED headlights installed in 2018
We understand that the car is in excellent condition
No mechanical problems reported

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or placing a bid, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We ask that a non-refundable fee is paid if you are the lucky winner of the auction or if your bid is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific fees.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as is", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and it is customary to carry out a full vehicle inspection prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or tender price, as specified in the advert.

✓ We want the transaction to go as smoothly as you do, which is why UK-registered cars and motorbikes offered for sale on Car & Classic are HPI checked to ensure they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not financially pledged, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written off as part of a total loss at the time the advert is placed on Car & Classic and provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the status of the vehicle and it is always worth carrying out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third party transport company who can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected].