1961 Ford Thunderbird
2-Door Coupe
- Locally Owned for the past 26 Years
- 390ci V8
- Automatic Transmission
- Raven Black Exterior
- Black Interior
- Power Steering & Power Brakes
- Extensive Maintenance History (see below)
- Stunning 3rd Generation T-Bird
- 53,065 Original Miles
This 1961 Ford Thunderbird 2-Door Coupe represents a beautifully preserved example of Ford's iconic third-generation Bullet Bird, finished in its factory-correct Raven Black over a black interior. Locally owned for the past 26 years and showing just 53,065 original miles, this Thunderbird stands out as one of the nicest examples we have offered. Its sleek hardtop styling, low stance, and unmistakable jet-age design capture the spirit of early 1960s American luxury and performance.
Power comes from the original-style 390ci FE V8 paired with a smooth Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission, delivering effortless cruising and strong period-correct performance. Power steering and power brakes, standard equipment for 1961, make the car easy and enjoyable to drive, whether around town or on the open road. The engine bay retains an authentic factory appearance, and the car runs and drives without issue, reflecting years of attentive ownership and care.
The Thunderbird has not undergone a full restoration, instead benefiting from consistent maintenance since new. Its Raven Black paint remains true to the data plate, and the interior is largely original, presenting very well for its age. The dash pad and console lid have been refurbished, enhancing comfort and appearance while preserving originality. All gauges and accessories are fully functional, reinforcing the car's well-kept nature.
Ownership history further adds to this car's appeal. The current owner acquired it eight years ago from us (Garage Kept Motors), consigned by the prior owner of 18 years. During current stewardship, the car has been stored in a climate-controlled garage and driven regularly in fair weather, ensuring mechanical health without compromising condition. The engine and transmission are believed to have been rebuilt by the previous owner within the past few thousand miles, adding confidence for the next caretaker.
Additional features include factory options such as the AM radio and Magic Aire heater, along with manual windows and seats, staying true to the Thunderbird's original configuration. The car is currently fitted with custom wheels, though the original factory wheels and correct 1961 Thunderbird wheel covers are included. With extensive maintenance history, exceptional originality, and classic styling, this Thunderbird is a standout example of Ford's personal luxury coupe at its finest.
The following services and maintenance have been performed by the current owner in the last 8 years of ownership:
- Battery, 12v, replaced, disconnect switch added
- Brake lines, replaced, new all-steel
- Brake system, flushed and bled, refilled with fresh Dot 3
- Brake wheel cylinders, replaced at all 4 wheels
- Brakes inspected, cleaned, lubricated, adjusted, all 4 wheels
- Carburetor choke, reconditioned and adjusted
- Carburetor, replaced with professionally remanufactured/rebuilt OEM
- Chassis lube, annually
- Clock, original, professionally restored and repaired
- Console, lid, custom refurbished
- Cooling system, flushed, drained, fresh antifreeze
- Dashboard, pad replaced with new, all components cleaned and refurbished
- Differential, flushed and refilled
- Distributor cap and rotor, replaced
- Engine timing, set
- Fuel lines, replaced, steel and rubber as OEM
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