352 CI V8, 3 SPEED FORD-O-MATIC, TWO-TONE, POWER STEERING, SOLID SQUARE BIRD!!

1959 Ford Thunderbird Description

In 1958, Ford doubled the number of seats and double the number of sales with their all-new Thunderbird. For 1959, the year this handsome red T-bird was built, sales were even stronger, and it's quite likely that without this trailblazing car, the Thunderbird would not have survived. Known as the square Birds due to their angular styling, these are extremely handsome cars. This one has been nicely restored to a very high standard, showing great attention to detail and a lot of effort spent on getting everything straight. Despite the nickname, the cars actually have a lot of intricate shapes that were surely a challenge to stamp properly when they were new and doubly challenging to restore properly. Note the peaked tailfins, the pointed side trim, and the graceful body line stretching from the headlights down through the door. Ford's obsession with the jet age continued, and this Thunderbird features four round taillights that give the 'Bird a very distinctive look. All the chrome is beautifully restored, including the massive front grille/bumper assembly which probably cost thousands all by itself. This is one of those cars that will show you something new every time you look at it. Inside, the lovely black and white bucket seat interior offers a full-sized back seat, so you aren't limited to just one passenger. The seats feature correct patterns and materials, along with a center console that houses the radio speaker and climate controls. Matching door panels seem to echo the sweeping body line on the outside sheetmetal, along with an interesting embossed design along the bottom edges. Fresh black carpets are protected by Thunderbird-logo floor mats, and the dash continued Ford's cockpit theme. A complete array of gauges is housed in a brightly polished panel and they appear to be completely original, and restoration photos show this was a fairly clean car to begin with. Check out how the numbers on the speedometer flip between 120 and 130, as if you'll need to assess your speed at a glance. This car received Ford's H-code 352 cubic inch V8, which was rated at a nice, round 300 horsepower, a significant jump over the 2-seater 'Birds. The neatly finished engine bay has a very industrial look to it, but I suspect the effect is intentional, with a background of satin black framing a minimalist Ford Blue engine. The original air cleaner is still fitted, as are the original valve covers, which are simple stampings that suit the engine just fine. It starts quickly and easily with a pleasant muted rumble from the dual exhaust, and the 3-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission clicks through the gears with authority. The undercarriage is original and solid, with clean floors and frame. Standard steel wheels wear full wheelcovers with spinners, as well as a set of 225/75/14 whitewall radials. The market seems to have rediscovered the 4-seater Thunderbird, and there are few better ways to travel than Ford's upscale personal luxury car. Call today!