Perhaps, the first automobile that I truly fell in love with! I had become so excited with the introduction of the 1961 Thunderbird, I knew one was in my future. Still in college in those days, I did not have the income to own one. I did, however, rent one for 3 glorious days in Miami. I was all of 20 years old!
Four decades later, being an avid car collector, I discovered this Thunderbird in my own apartment building in San Francisco. I was on my way to the famous January car auctions in Scottsdale, Arizona, when I noticed this Thunderbird in my buildings garage. I left a note on the car asking if it could be purchased.
Several week later someone called and we began negotiations. It was an original San Francisco Area Car (East Bay) and the owner had just passed away. For the next few months, negotiations went on. Finally, the car was mine. A dream come true, almost 40 years later. Only problem - I had always wanted a convertible and this was a 2 door hardtop.
With inspection of the Thunderbird, I found it to be so original and in true California rust free shape, I paid the price and now owned the car of my dreams.
In those days I was not fully aware of the high cost of automotive restorations in California. So, the process began.
The restoration required a few years! The Thunderbird underwent a full ground up restoration - bit by bit! A new (correct) Enamel Aquamarine body paint; totally new interior; mechanical restoration and engine rebuild; new chrome; detailed engine compartment and so on.
The Thunderbird is shown, on occasion, at local Concours and benefit car shows. The Thunderbird never fails to receive an award!
This 1961 Thunderbird is a true car collectors dream. A beautiful original that has been lovingly restored. The Thunderbird drives and rides like new and will leave most of today's cars in the dust from a stop light (not that I go there!).
The 1961 Thunderbird is rarely shown or driven! When show at a concours or Thunderbird show, it has always received accolades for quality and originality. This Thunderbird drives better than new. The mileage is slightly above 80K original miles with less than 2K since restoration.
