It is easy to examine some classics and conclude that mileage claims made by the seller are questionable. However, that doesn’t appear to be the case with this 1963 Ford Thunderbird. It presents beautifully, and with the listing indicating that it has never been restored, it makes the claimed odometer reading of 46,000 original miles sound plausible. It has led a sheltered life, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for bringing this amazing classic to our attention. The Thunderbird is listed here on Craigslist in Ronkonkoma, New York. The seller set their price at $17,959, although it appears that they might consider trades.
I’m going out on a limb by stating that the Third Generation Thunderbird represented a quantum leap forward from a styling perspective when compared to its predecessor. It looked sleeker and more svelte, with the rear end retaining looks that reflected the public’s passion for the developing space race. This T-Bird rolled off the line in 1963, finished in stunning Chestnut Metallic. The seller states that it has never been restored, which means that the paint is original. Its condition is particularly noteworthy if that is true, because it exhibits an impressive shine, while cosmetic imperfections are too minor to show in the supplied photos. This classic has been garage-kept throughout its life, helping to explain how it has managed to remain rust-free. The trim and glass are in good order, and the Ford rolls on a set of narrow whitewalls. The seller’s claim that this Thunderbird has accumulated its share of show silverware is very believable.
With a curb weight north of 4,300 lbs, the ’63 Thunderbird could never be considered a lightweight. However, Ford’s decision to equip it with a 390ci V8 producing 300hp and 427 ft/lbs of torque ensured that the performance was pretty energetic for the standards of the time. There was no manual option, with all cars leaving the factory with a three-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes. Potential buyers seeking a turnkey classic may need to look no further than this Ford. It runs and drives perfectly, with the engine running cool on hot days. There is no mention of verifying evidence for the mileage claim, but it is hard to find any faults that might raise serious doubts.
A Swing Away wheel, AM radio, and a remote driver’s mirror were standard Thunderbird fare in 1963, with this car’s first owner adding power windows to the mix. There is no air conditioning, although the lack of this feature wouldn’t detract from the ownership experience unless the outside temperature rose to a fairly high level. It appears that the factory radio has made way for a retro-style stereo, with the front seatcovers the only other obvious addition. The interior is quite presentable, with the seam separations on the passenger seat the most obvious fault. An upholsterer may be able to address that shortcoming, but the new owner may elect to throw caution to the wind by splashing around $680 on a complete set of new seat upholstery in the correct material and color to permanently eliminate the problem. Otherwise, this interior seems to need nothing.
Ford created the Personal Luxury Car sector when it released the original Thunderbird in 1955, and it enjoyed a virtual monopoly in the market until the 1960s. The T-Bird evolved to reflect market tastes and enjoyed decent sales volumes. In 1963, 63,313 buyers took one home, and although it was actually the worst result in the production life of the badge’s Third Generation, it still represented a reasonable return on Ford’s investment. If the claims made by the seller can be confirmed, this 1963 model is an excellent find. The price looks highly competitive, especially considering that values are climbing. The increases haven’t been dramatic, meaning that it would require a long-term commitment if anyone were considering this classic’s investment potential. However, many people purchase a car with their heart, and not their head. Sometimes the financial aspects are secondary, and the ownership experience is all that matters. Therefore, if you crave a classic that will provide more of an emotional than a financial return, this Thunderbird could be a strong contender.
Beautiful color on this one. These are my favorites, second only to the 2 seater ’55 to ’57 models. I would like to see whats lurking under those seat covers. But that back seat looks great. If this looks as good underneath as it does on top you’ve got a solid winner here.
I don’t recall this Ford color (until a similar shade makes its appearance a few years later as Indian Fire.) I think it looks good. I’m with Driveinstile, I like this generation of T-Birds. They represent a time of many stylish and attractive cars, reflective of the mood of the country at the time. And like he says, improve the upholstery and whatever else needs upgraded, and you have a nice cruiser.
Good job Adam.
I’m sure that the seats are fine as is, being original only once. Plus, being all original, it, ” == WINS A LOT OF TROPHIES AT CLASSIC CAR SHOWS == WHOOOO!” Sorry, I couldn’t resist adding some Ric Flair to a dealer’s all-caps hyperbole…
Dare I say a pair of fender skirts (and genuine wire wheels, but I dont want to press my luck here), would complete the look of this beautiful ‘Bird?
Fender skirts? No thanks. This car looks great as-is. I don’t buy the 46k miles claim for a New York second however. Interiors don’t get worn like that if they aren’t being used.
Outlandish 46k miles claim aside, this is a pretty nice T-Bird. You don’t see many “Bullet Birds” like this any more.
No AC. No sale for me. But I have to agree that is one beautiful shade of Red. Bubble wrap seat covers? Hmmm. This generation of T-Bird has grown on me. Just my personal observation but you just don’t see as many of these as the square birds and style birds, could drive up the value.
The price is a little high for a 63 Bird- the market is not nice to them and you still can get good cars for 12K. Considering the damaged front seats and the missing fender skirts I would rate this at 13K max. But the color is nice.
My grandmother left my sister her t bird light metallic green beige leather guy and landau top got skirts 390 2 barrel single exhaust it’s all original 32 k miles it’s supposedly a princess Grace addition ? My father said 1 of 2000? It’s sweet!
This would be an awesome cruiser. My favorite Thunderbird.
I’ve owned these bullet birds since 1969 and have many happy and some sorry stories with them. This one is as unique as they come, I have never seen that color and question it’s originality, but there are things in this life that I have yet to see anyway. I am in the midst of restoring a roadster at this moment. Seeing this one is inspiring. Beeeutiful ride, it is worth twice what the asking price is. If had the extra space and expendable cash I’d scarf it up just to let it sit in my collection of other Birds. GOOD LUCK SELLER, YOU GOT A WINNER HERE.
That beautiful color is original and was called “Chestnut Poly”, which I know was available in 1962 and ’63. 1965 had a similar color called “EmberGlo” on the Special Edition Landau Tbird. I collect promo cars and Chestnut is a very sought-after color for a 62-63 promo model (which, for those who may not know, were factory-assembled scale models produced for dealers to help market their new cars in select factory colors).
The front hubcaps are ’64 deluxe, while the rears go with the car.
The front wheels are 15″ with ’64 Thunderbird deluxe spinners caps. The rear wheels are the correct 14″ wheels with 1963 deluxe spinner caps.
I wonder if a front disc conversion was done and they had to put 15″ wheels on the front.
Though I don’t remember eever seing on in this color, it is a legitimate T-Bird color for 1963.
No way that mileage is correct. I have a 63 with verifiable 59,000 miles. And the original headliner was perforated and that saggy mess is plain vinyl. Buyer beware. Have a professional look at the car.
When I was in high school, one of the girls who belonged to the lucky sperm club cruised around in one with the headrests behind the seat.