Simply Stunning: 1963 Ford Thunderbird Convertible – SOLD!

September 30th Update – Classic cars priced right simply don’t last long and this ’63 Thunderbird convertible, offered at $14,800, was a perfect example as the private seller deleted their Craigslist ad just one week after posting it.  So, we’re calling this red Bullet Bird “Sold!”

Ford’s third-generation Thunderbird produced from 1961 through 1963, known by enthusiasts as the “Bullet Bird” generation, had very clean jet-age styling that still looks great today. With the top down, the convertible version remains one of the cleanest looking rag tops ever produced.  The private seller of this all Rangoon Red ’63 convertible posted recently on Craigslist not only captures the beauty of these cars, but he’s also offering his Bullet Bird for $14,800. A quick look at the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has his T-Bird priced $2,200 below the current #4 “Fair” (Daily Driver) estimate of $17,000. Similarly, a review of the Collector Car Market Review Online Tool shows the asking price to fall between the #4 “Fair” condition estimate of $11,200 and the #3 “Good” appraisal of $18,900.

Ford redesigned the Thunderbird for 1961 with styling that gave the car a unique bullet-like body side appearance. A new engine, a 300 horsepower, 390 cubic inch “FE“ V8, was the lone engine initially offered in the Thunderbird and was only available with a three-speed automatic transmission.  A vinyl-roofed Landau option with simulated S-bars was added to the Thunderbird for 1962 hardtop models.

Few other changes were made to the Thunderbird for 1963 as Ford prepared to introduce a new version for 1964. A horizontal styling line was added that ran from the point where the bumper and fender meet back through the door and angled down. Small diagonal chrome bars were added in this area on the door. Alternators replaced generators on all 1963 Thunderbirds.

This 1963 Ford Thunderbird Commercial currently posted on the Osborn Tramain® YouTube Channel actually goes through the history of the car through that time.

It only figures a great looking Bullet Bird offered at a very price would come to mark the week after we lock-and-load on the Porsche 928!  The private seller hints this T-Bird’s convertible top frame is all there and works but is in need of a new top.  That’s the likely reason the price is reasonable as a new top is likely a several thousand dollar job best left to a professional upholsterer. As long as you’re able to confirm the underside of this Thunderbird has no hidden rust, you’ll be buying a great looking driver-quality Bullet Bird  that will be lot’s of fun.  Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1963 Ford Thunderbird Convertible. Solid car, running, inspected. No rust. Older paint. Reproduction wire wheels. Skirts. Interior clean. Original engine, 390 cI, rebuilt (with receipts). Convertible frame complete and works. Needs top.

Extra parts – ball joints, wheels, brakes, alternator, voltage regulator, more!

Really fun car !!”

Do you have a Bullet Bird story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!