Classic Ford Thunderbird For Sale
The release of the 1960 Ford Thunderbird marked a transformative point in this model’s journey. While retaining the core essence of Thunderbird allure, the 1960 edition ushered in changes that redefined the marque as the purveyor of automotive luxury.
The most radical change for 1960 was the move from a two-seat to four-seat layout. Ford wanted to broaden the Thunderbird’s appeal by making it more practical for family travel. This proved a wise choice, introducing legroom for rear passengers and improving access with rear suicide doors. Sales immediately shot upwards. But some Thunderbird purists lamented the loss of the intimate two-seat roadster configuration.
From the beltline down, the 1960 Thunderbird carried forward the “squared-off” aesthetic of the 1958-59 models. This earned it the “Square Bird” nickname. Large, sweeping tailfins capped the rear, a signature Ford styling detail. Dual rows of four round taillights showed off Ford’s creative flair. Rectangular lines on the sides contrasted the curviness on front and rear. The overall look exuded elegance, sophistication and subtle power.
Inside, the 1960 T-Bird indulged occupants with spacious, lounge-like seating trimmed in soft leather and vinyl. An array of gauges and controls were designed for intuitive use and easy viewing during relaxed cruising. Power adjustments made it easy to tailor the seating position. Generous padding and reclining seat backs enhanced comfort for road trips near or far. For its time, the Thunderbird’s interior showcased the pinnacle of American automotive luxury.
But the most innovative interior feature was the unique Swing-Away steering wheel. When the driver’s door opened, the steering wheel automatically tilted 90 degrees towards the right, moving out of the way for easier entry and exit. This novel feature highlighted Ford’s desire to incorporate technology that enhanced convenience.
A trio of V8 engines provided ample power for the 1960 Thunderbird. Offerings ranged from a 300 horsepower 352 V8 to the top-end 345 horsepower 430 V8, a powerful mill borrowed from the Lincoln Continental. Buyers could choose the engine to match their needs for performance and fuel economy. Paired with a smooth automatic transmission, the 1960 T-Bird delivered vigorous, refined acceleration.
The 1960 model year marked a turning point, as Ford reimagined the Thunderbird as an aspirational four-seat luxury cruiser. The changes established a design template that defined the Thunderbird for years to come. More than ever before, the 1960 Thunderbird lived up to its billing as the “luxury car of personal luxury cars.”
Fun Facts about the 1960 Ford Thunderbird:
- Little Known Facts:
- Had an optional A/C unit mounted in the trunk
- Introduced a unibody construction for better rigidity
- Featured a push-button transmission control panel
- Offered custom interior color combinations
- Had vent windows that could be opened individually
- Amazing Facts:
- First year Thunderbird sales topped 100,000 units
- 0-60 mph time under 10 seconds with top engine option
- Longest Thunderbird model at over 17 feet long
- One of the most successful Thunderbird generations
- Swing-away steering wheel returned for 2005 model
A five-year sales history can be seen at Classic.com. Valuation tables can be seen at Caaarguide.com. For production numbers and values, see Conceptcarz.com. Current values can also be seen at Collectorcarmarket.com. In-depth specifications and performance can be seen at Automobile-catalog.com. Complete specifications can also be seen at Classiccardatabase.com. Some history reading on the Thunderbird can be read at VTKC.com.
Nadaguides.com – Average price: $24,700
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Image credit – Wikipedia.org
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