While the 1960 Chevrolet Corvette was a hard-edged two-seat sports car offering exhilarating performance, the 1960 Ford Thunderbird Convertible could comfortably seat four, offering a more luxurious motoring experience. If that prospect sounds enticing, our feature car deserves a close look. Its exterior presentation is almost flawless, with only its interior requiring attention to present at its best. Otherwise, potential buyers can consider this T-Bird a turnkey proposition. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Thunderbird listed here on Craigslist in Independence, Oregon. The seller set their price for this beauty at $44,900 and appears willing to negotiate shipping, if required.
Ford released its Second Generation Thunderbird in 1958, marking a dramatic shift in philosophy. No longer a two-seater, the company increased the badge’s versatility by enlarging the passenger compartment to accommodate four. The styling was radically different from its predecessor and generally polarized opinion. It earned the vehicle the handle of the Square Bird, but sales remained extremely strong. This Convertible rolled off the line in 1960, and looks stunning in Raven Black with a matching power top. The depth of color and shine is impressive, and if there are any panel or paint shortcomings, they are too minor to show in the listing images. The top fits as tight as a drum, and the car’s overall appearance is enhanced by the Continental Kit and wire wheels, wrapped in wide whitewalls. Rust doesn’t appear to be a concern, and with clear glass and sparkling trim, this T-Bird looks like a winner.
The seller’s listing causes some confusion. They confirm the 352ci V8, power steering, and power brakes that we would typically expect. However, the description briefly references a four-speed automatic transmission. The seller doesn’t elaborate on this, suggesting it could be a typographical error. The V8 should deliver a factory-quoted 300hp and 381 ft/lbs of torque. That makes the Convertible a surprisingly energetic performer for a car weighing over 4,000 lbs. The seller recently replaced the original generator with an alternator, which is the only specified upgrade. They state that the T-Bird runs and drives perfectly, and is ready to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel.
The interior shots reveal one of this Thunderbird’s genuine shortcomings. Trimmed in dazzling Red to contrast the exterior paint shade, it makes a bold visual statement. However, life inside this Convertible is far from perfect. The seatcovers exhibit splits and other problems, and are probably beyond repair to an acceptable standard. Therefore, sourcing replacement covers would be the most logical approach. I performed an admittedly brief online search and made a startling discovery. While some companies retail a complete set for around $1,200, I found one that will supply leather covers in the correct shade and with the correct stitching for $700. It might be a case of getting what you pay for, but the new owner may choose to investigate that option further. Otherwise, this interior has no other needs. The dash is excellent, there is no significant carpet wear, and it also features air conditioning, power windows, and a pushbutton radio.
The 1960 model year marked the most successful in the Ford Thunderbird’s three-year production run. It found buyers for 92,843 vehicles, a figure its successor would fail to reach. This T-Bird looks stunning, and with new seatcovers, its appearance would be almost beyond criticism. The seller’s price is at the top end of the market, especially considering the existing interior issues. However, it isn’t unprecedented, and it only takes one enthusiast who lets their heart rule their head for it to find a new home. Do you think it will happen, or will the seller have to compromise to taste sales success?
It’s always amazed me how bad a continental kit makes a very good looking car look like crap.
I agree. To me the only T-Bird that looked good with the Continental kit was the ’56. I might be wrong, but I believe the reason it was only standard factory equipment was due to the extra weight affecting the steering. Other than that a beautiful car. I had a ’60 hardtop when I was in high school that was on its last leg but was still very fast with the 430.
Seriously, lose the ‘Kit. It ruins the rear end, with those six tail lights, it was the best looking of the Square Birds.
Yes the kit takes away a good looking rear. The front reminds me of a Catfish!! I never care for this model year. But I will say its sharp looking in black/red setup. Good luck to the seller 🇺🇸🐻