Amazing 16k Mile 1977 Ford Thunderbird

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The seller of this 1977 Ford Thunderbird goes to great lengths to emphasize the vehicle’s originality. It is claimed that this car is as it was the day the original lady owner took delivery. It has never been buffed, polished, or detailed. Its amazing condition is due to it being cherished by its original owner since new, and the fact that it has accumulated a genuine and documented 16,222 miles during its lifetime. For the now elderly owner, time has caught up with her. She has decided to part with a classic that she received as a gift from her husband all those years ago. The Thunderbird is located in Altoona, Iowa, and is listed for sale here on eBay. Bidding has sailed beyond the reserve to sit at $7,155. I remain constantly amazed by the stunning array of classics that Barn Finder Larry D continues to unearth for us, so thank you so much for locating this one, Larry.

When Ford released the Seventh Generation Thunderbird for the 1977 model year, it represented a leap of faith by the company. No longer was the T-Bird based on the Lincoln Continental platform. In a calculated move, Ford chose to base the new model on the LTD II/Mercury Cougar underpinnings. This decision wiped 10-inches from its length compared to its predecessor and an incredible 900lbs off its weight. It is a strategy that could have backfired catastrophically, but the 1977 year saw more Thunderbirds roll out the door than at any time in the car’s history. While 52,935 buyers handed over their cash in 1976, an incredible 318,140 buyers parked a T-Bird in their driveway in 1977. Once again, Ford had a sales hit on its hands. The lady who is this Ford’s sole owner received it as a gift from her husband in 1977. He ordered the car finished in Lipstick Red with the distinctive White vinyl top with the “basket handle” Red strip. Overall, the condition of this Ford is jaw-dropping. The seller claims that the paint is 100% original and that the vehicle has never been buffed or detailed. The shine it wears is as it was when it left the factory, and a life stored in a temperature-controlled garage has helped retain the overall as-new condition. There is not a chip, mark, or scratch anywhere, nor any evidence of dings or bruises. The sheltered life that the T-Bird has led also means that there is no rust, and its cause on this front has been aided by the original owner’s decision to have the car factory rustproofed when new. When this Ford has ventured from its cozy garage, it has only done so on sunny days. Those journeys have allowed it to accumulate 16,222 miles on its odometer, and this reading is documented and verified to provide the buyer with peace of mind. While I try to avoid using phrases like “time capsule” unless absolutely necessary, it seems appropriate for this classic.

When you consider its ownership history and the life it has led, it’s no surprise to find that the Thunderbird’s interior is pristine. The upholstered surfaces and seats are trimmed in white vinyl, while the red carpet and dash offer a striking contrast. The seller provides a great selection of interior photos, and I can find nothing to fault inside this classic. The white trim has avoided dirty marks and yellowing, and the carpet looks factory fresh. The dash is flawless, as is the headliner. What I find interesting with this car is its lack of power options. There is no assistance for the windows, seats, or locks. However, the owner’s husband ordered the Thunderbird with ice-cold air conditioning, cruise control, remote mirrors, and an AM/FM stereo radio.

The seller doesn’t supply any engine photos, but decoding the VIN reveals that this numbers-matching Ford was ordered with the 351ci V8 that produces 149hp. This T-Bird also features a 3-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes in keeping with its luxury leanings. The substantial weight-loss program between the 1976 and 1977 model years paid dividends when we compare relative performance. The ’76 T-Bird featured the 202hp 460ci V8 that sent it through the ¼-mile in 18.7 seconds. This ’77 model features a smaller motor that produces less power, but thanks to the loss of 900lbs, it was only marginally slower than its predecessor. The new model offered a 30% improvement in fuel consumption for those who counted their pennies at the pump, which wasn’t to be sneezed at. With a mere 16,222 miles on the clock, it is no surprise to learn that the mechanical health is as perfect as the rest of the vehicle. The owner recently fitted new tires, but this was due to age rather than wear. After all, the ones that she removed were the originals. Even though it has had limited use, the Thunderbird has always been meticulously maintained. That means that it is ready to hit the road with its 2nd owner behind the wheel.

For potential buyers, this 1977 Ford Thunderbird could represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To find a low-mileage survivor that is so beautifully preserved is a rare treat, and it helps explain why twenty-six bids have already been submitted. If the car holds true to market trends, there’s a chance that it might push beyond $15,000, but I would be amazed if it found its way to $20,000. Those figures help keep it within the realm of affordable classics for those considering a first purchase. When you consider its condition and odometer reading, are you tempted to pursue this Thunderbird further?

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Comments

  1. Stevieg

    Why am I picturing a dyed beehive hair cut, a whole lot of pink polyester, and strong, cheap perfume?
    Either way, this is a pretty flashy ride for being essentially a stripped down Torino. I don’t know that I would drive it, but I like it.

    Like 18
  2. Mike K

    My fren from my previous life had a new one EXACTLY like this, only he had 3″ whitewalls and real spoke wheels. You could see that car a half a mile away.

    Like 3
  3. S

    This is one fantastic vehicle in a fantastic color combination! I don’t understand though why there are not floor mats in this car! Keep that carpeting nice! I had one like this, low milage, but not this low mileage, and it was nice but not this nice. I hope whoever buys this takes good care of it!!

    Like 17
    • Kenn

      “Keep that carpeting nice!” for whom? The next owner? Why not leave it un-matted for your own enjoyment?

      Like 0
  4. That Guy

    I’ve always loved the Lipstick Red color on these. I remember it being really unique, just subtly different from other reds and yet hugely eye-catching. I can’t imagine more than a handful like this still exist. What a beauty.

    Like 15
  5. Larry D

    Hi Adam, this is Larry D who submitted this car to you.

    I was/am highly amazed at the beauty and originality of this ’77 T-Bird. And it’s in the right colors too instead of some common drab hue like so many of them were. There is no question about how this car was cared for.

    Even though I’m no big fan of 70s Thunderbirds, I would definitely buy this one if not for my advanced age. I always appreciate cars that have been lovingly cared for by their owners. It will be interesting to see how far this car goes in price on ebay.

    Larry D

    Like 18
  6. bikefixr

    Mom had identical car in blue. Gas hog. Handled like a barge. But up on the highway, it was straight-line pleasure all the way.

    Like 2
  7. Krayzrick

    This beauty is at $10,100 today, 9/5/21, and worth every penny I’d say.

    Like 5
  8. Larry D

    I have two not-so-good observations about this T-Bird.

    One is that although he shows a lot of high-quality pics of it, he doesn’t show a single one of the engine.

    And two, I see those dreaded plastic plugs in the door jambs indicating rustproofing. I know that is a necessity in some areas but for us down in the south, it isn’t. And it makes for an ugly sight.

    Like 1
  9. Greg Williams

    Floor mats were a separate option back in the day, not part of option package !

    Like 1
  10. Darrell

    I still like the look of these cars. I had one new but I have to say they were the worse handing cars ever made They were softly sprung and I had to trade mine in after six months. I couldn’t drive it on any twisty roads. But the period Elites and Birds were nicely done.

    Like 4
  11. Bick Banter

    T-Bird sales figures for ’77 were on a par with the 2019 Honda Civic. Pretty amazing given that it was basically a sightly updated Gran Torino Elite, which itself was a rebadged 1974-76 Cougar. And all of them are 1972-76 Torinos under the skin.

    But back then, the Thunderbird name still had a lot of panache. So people saw it as a chance to get a prestigious badge for cheap, and boy did they. Of course, this excercise pretty much cashed in the Thunderbird’s stock as an aspirational vehicle.

    Like 2
  12. Sam Shive

    Never Liked That Window That Looks Like A After Though. Yes it helps the blind spot but it’s just flat A$$ Ugly.

    Like 0
  13. Jasper

    Being in a Ford town, these were everywhere…for years! These really delivered ‘70s champagne for beer money.

    A friend loves these and had owned no less than four. Claims he lived in one of them briefly.

    I guess the figure eight racers ultimately took most of them.

    This one is a great color and has the attractive poly cast wheels.

    Like 2
  14. Timmy VMember

    If you weren’t around to see these when they were brand new, take a good look because this is what they looked like, and why they sold so many. So many in fact that you looked past them in traffic. Every street in every neighborhood had at least one and maybe more. Always liked them. Our ‘77 LTD had the same gutless 351W so don’t get too excited about that, it will disappoint. Otherwise I’m not the target market for this but I’m glad it exists.

    Like 4
    • Stevieg

      I was 6 years old when these came out, but I remember them. My neighbor bought the carbon copy of this car (white with red tops & red interior) & I was very intrigued by it. I had never (as a 6 year old lol) seen a roof like that. It looked so “custom” to me.
      Like I said in a previous thread, I don’t know that I would drive it, but I sure do like it.
      By the way…I made the comment in that thread about the dyed beehive, the pink polyester, so on. My neighbor did not fit that description. She was 18 (12 years older than me), blonde, & hot. I noticed as a 6 year old how hot she was!

      Like 5
  15. Gerard Frederick

    A real beauty on all levels. Reading some of the critical remarks, they are all subjective. None are universally meaningful, but only to those who have written them on a purely personal level. I think this is just the ticket for the person who wants an outstanding driver. Her hubby must have really loved her and she must be a sweetheart for taking such excellent care of this lovely specimen. Good vibes all around.

    Like 6
  16. Abi

    It seems that lately EVERY seller of a well kept car with a 5 digit odometer claims the miles are original. The seller says the miles are verified but offers nothing in the auction description to substantiate it.
    I’m just having trouble believing all these people buy cars keep them for 40-50 years and never drive them – especially cars that at the time would not be considered a future collectible.

    Like 2
    • David Gilmour

      I noticed there was no photos of the drivers area where you might see wear on the pedals, seat or steering wheel.

      Like 1
    • Bill McCoskey Bill McCoskeyMember

      Abi,

      I have owned many older and very low mileage cars that I bought from the original owners who, for many different reasons, didn’t drive very much.

      I remember visiting a Studebaker dealership in central New Jersey and seeing brand new Studebakers in the showroom, and this was in the late 1970s, more than 10 years after the company stopped making cars!

      I know of a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible, black & white, equipped with all options including factory A/C, and as I recall it had been driven less than 50 miles. It’s interior surfaces are still in protective covers and paper floor mat.

      It’s in a private foreign* car collection and 100% not for sale. It’s now in the hands of the second generation family member, with the next generation eagerly awaiting their chance of ownership!
      * It has a KPH speedometer!

      I still know where there is a first year Chrysler Town & Country mini-van, sitting in the garage, still has the cardboard license plate from the local Chrysler-Plymouth dealership, and the odometer shows a total of 6.2 miles, about how far it was to drive it home.

      Guy bought it as a surprise for his wife, she didn’t want a mini-van, & refused to drive it. Still won’t sell it either.

      Like 0
  17. Jim Richards

    Whether or not you like Thunderbirds or the colors congrats to the woman who apparently took excellent care of this vehicle . It looks immaculate and very meticiculously cared for !!!!!

    Like 3
  18. David S

    My mom bought a used Cougar edition of this same year car in 1978, black with Grey leatherette seats with a Grey and white herringbone cloth pattern inset. That was the car I got my driver’s license test completed in Corpus Christie, TX. It was a looker.

    Like 0
  19. Bamapoppy

    About 3 years ago someone had a Lincoln Mark V in the same color for sale. If I remember correctly the ad claimed 485 miles. For whatever reason these low mile cars are out there. And to Abi, I understand. About 10 years ago I met a woman who had a 1996 Taurus in her garage with less than 8,000 miles. Amazed me but there it was!

    Like 0
    • Abi

      @Bamapoppy I’m not saying these cars don’t exist. It just seems that every well kept car has the seller claiming the odometer hasn’t rolled and they offer no proof that it hasn’t except some strategically taken pictures from 20 feet away or a MV title that says actual miles < which means nothing. Rarely are you able to do a personal inspection due to location so you have to rely on the seller to provide documentation like yearly inspection reports and/or service records and when you ask they say they have none.

      Like 0
  20. Larry D

    @Abi

    I couldn’t agree with you more. However, in this case I think the car speaks for itself. So, I tend to believe the miles are actual.

    But I still think anyone who babies and pampers a car as they said they did this one, usually keeps meticulous records of all its servicing and other events which contained dates and/or miles.

    The fact that this owner has not mentioned any proof of mileage doesn’t necessarily mean he doesn’t have any. It could mean he just didn’t think to mention them or maybe he didn’t realize the importance of doing so.

    So, I have contacted the owner thru ebay to ask him for proof of the mileage and pictures of the engine and its compartment.

    If he ignores my request, I would say that does seem suspicious for such a nice car. If he replies, I think we’ll have a better regarding this car.

    Like 4
    • Larry D

      My last sentence in the comment above should read:

      “I think we’ll have a better idea regarding this car.”

      Like 0
    • Abi

      @Larry D – been ignored in the past as you’ve said. A good thing to ask for a picture of is a well lit closeup of the brake pedal. No matter how hard you ride it in 16k there shouldn’t be much is any wear on the rubber or metal frame. I agree that just because he doesn’t offer proof doesn’t mean there isn’t any. However, if you search his completed auctions he has several vintage cars that all have the same wording as this one.
      Let us know if/how he responds please.

      Like 0
  21. DST1965

    We all have had cars that we look back not so kindly on-I had ‘78 cougar with the 302-talk about gutless, the thing couldn’t get out of its own way-it rode nice & that was the end of it. Dumped so much $$$ into that crate-never so glad to be rid of a car in my life

    Like 0
  22. Larry D

    @Abi

    I did receive a response from the seller of the ’77 T-Bird last night.

    He sent me a pic of the engine and compartment. And it all looked to be the same caliber as the rest of the car.

    He also said he has documentation of the actual miles although he didn’t say what that entailed.

    So, I just wanted to let you and everybody else know what he said. And I looked back on the previous auctions he had on ebay. And you are right that most of them have the same flowery advertising agency wording. He sounds like a true car salesman.

    Like 1
    • Abi

      @Larry D – It may very well be as he says, but like you said he’s a used car dealer that wreaks of snake oil. If I was interested in that car (I’m not), I’d insist on examining all of his ‘documentation’ before I’d bite.
      Thanks for following up.

      Like 0
  23. JoeNYWF64

    Isn’t this car & the LTD II & later ’70s Mercury Cougar really basically a ’72 torino structurewise? If so, that would mean it’s also a Starsky Torino underneath whose “handling” Paul Glaser despised! lol
    If so, that was a LOT of bad handling cars Ford sold!
    Yet, i guess even these later ’77 birds rusted out as fast as the ’72 torino, which would account for why most of them are now dead & “buried”.
    That door is quite long on the ’77 bird, yet oddly the glass inside it is not.

    Like 0

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