In 1962, Ford witnessed the peak of the third-generation Thunderbird production, with a notable increase from the previous year. Over 78,000 units were manufactured, a significant jump from the 73,000 cars produced in 1961. However, this success was short-lived, as the following year saw a sharp decline, with only 63,000 T-Birds rolling off the assembly lines.
Engine Upgrades and Transient Features
The 1962 model year introduced notable enhancements, including the debut of a new 390 engine with higher compression. Featuring three two-barrel carburetors and utilizing 406 heads from the Ford Galaxie, this engine was, however, short-lived in the Thunderbird lineup. Despite its discontinuation after a year, the 390 remained an option, available in both standard and more powerful configurations, such as the 427.
An intriguing story surrounds a 1962 Thunderbird convertible, its restoration initiated many years ago, now abandoned in a yard. Despite its potential, the car remains untouched, prompting the owner to offer it to someone willing to tackle the challenging restoration project.
The Condition and Challenges
The convertible exhibits typical rust issues, especially on the floors, likely exacerbated by years of exposure to the elements. A thorough inspection of the undersides is recommended to assess the extent of floor damage. The convertible top is in need of replacement, and the owner mentions additional parts that come with the car, though not visible in the provided photos.
## FAQs
**Q1: What are the known issues with the car?**
*The car exhibits rust, especially on the floors, and the convertible top needs replacement. The overall condition suggests a challenging restoration.*
**Q2: What parts come with the car?**
*The owner mentions two good front seats, a back seat, a new dash pad, door panels, and potentially other items helpful for the restoration.*
**Q3: What is the starting bid for the car?**
*The bidding starts at $6,000, which some interested buyers find challenging considering the car’s condition and potential missing parts.*
**Q4: Where is the car located, and how long is the listing active?**
*The Thunderbird is parked in Otis, Colorado. The listing will expire in approximately five days.*
**Q5: Is there information about the engine’s condition?**
*The eBay listing indicates a 390 V8 engine, but specific details about its originality or whether it turns over by hand are not provided by the owner.*
In summary, while the 1962 Thunderbird holds historical significance, potential buyers are urged to inspect it in person due to the lack of detailed information and the challenging condition presented in the listing.
