It is always a positive sign when a seller encourages in-person inspections. It suggests that their classic is all that they claim it to be, and that they have nothing to hide. Such is the case with this 1965 Ford Thunderbird Special Landau. It looks good, it goes well, and is a turnkey classic needing nothing but a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the T-Bird listed here on eBay in Seymour, Tennessee. The seller set their BIN at $28,500 with the option to make an offer.

After its 1964 introduction, Ford performed minor styling updates to the Fourth Generation Thunderbird for the 1965 model year. The tweaks were subtle, but included the introduction of the sequential turn signals that were postponed in 1964. It released a Special Landau variant in the spring, featuring a unique combination of paint shade, interior trim, and a few additional badges. Locating firm production figures is challenging, but it is generally agreed that the Special Landau contributed around 4,500 vehicles to that year’s total T-Bird sales tally of 74,972. Historians have unearthed a few Specials delivered in Wimbledon White, but most combined Emberglo Metallic paint with a Parchment vinyl top. This Thunderbird carries that combination, with the seller confirming a past repaint. They emphasize that this classic isn’t a show car and should be considered a driver-grade vehicle. Apart from presenting extremely well, an underside inspection will confirm that this Ford is rust-free. The glass and trim look excellent, and this gem retains its correct wheel covers with the Emberglow highlights.

Ticking the box next to the “Special Landau” option on the Order Form didn’t deliver any performance upgrades to buyers. The 390ci V8 still sent 300hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission, with power-assisted steering and brakes forming part of the package. However, one significant change for 1965 was Ford’s decision to upgrade the Thunderbird’s braking system with front discs as standard equipment. This vastly improved stopping efficiency and was praised during contemporary road tests. The seller believes a previous owner may have rebuilt this car’s motor, but they have no documentary evidence to confirm it. However, they say that the T-Bird runs and drives extremely well, with no mechanical needs or shortcomings.

If you’re looking at a ’65 Thunderbird and are unsure whether it is a genuine Special Landau, a quick look at the Body Plate should reveal the truth. It should carry a Trim Code of 7D, denoting Parchment Crinkle Vinyl, which is unique to this version. That’s what we find inside this T-Bird, with the painted surfaces wearing the same Emberglo as seen on the exterior. This car’s new owner also receives power windows, a swing-away wheel, remote exterior mirrors, a pushbutton radio, and splashes of Landau simulated woodgrain on the dash, door trims, and the console. One thing that I will say is that this Thunderbird is consistent. Its interior may not be of show-quality, but it undoubtedly qualifies as a high-end driver. There is no wear, rips, splits, or other problems. It is worth noting that while it isn’t a display piece, the seller has taken home some “best-in-class” silverware, confirming how nicely this classic presents.

Based on what you have seen and know about this 1965 Ford Thunderbird Special Landau, are you tempted to take the next step and reach out to the seller to negotiate an inspection? I would understand if you do, because this classic seems to have many positive attributes. It is worth noting that their price is above the market average, but since this is a “Special” variant, it adds to its appeal for those who prize rarity. An inspection would confirm whether the figure is justified. Of course, if they are flexible when negotiating, the situation may improve considerably. All you can do is ask, because what is the worst they can say?