1969 Ford Thunderbird

Description

The Mercury brand struggled because they just weren't able to convince people that Mercury's were anything but Ford's underneath. On the other hand, you will fall in love with this 1969 Ford Thunderbird sedan, because the secret is that it's actually a Lincoln underneath.

Yes, the Thunderbird grew a second set of doors, but don't think of it as a sedan, think of it as a personal luxury coupe with improved rear seat access. Finished in subtle Diamond Green, this car's original color, it has a bright disposition that was the perfect product of the late 1960s. Clearly they were being creative with the color names back then as the car looks more off-white than anything else, but either way, you can't deny the beauty of it, and how well this car wears it. As a multiple award-winner, it's also exceptionally clean, with a perfect shine that fits the period quite well. There's a lot of sculpting on the Thunderbird, just take a look at the front end which surrounds the grille and headlights with chrome, then tapers into a stepped fender line that runs to the rear of the car. Gaps are quite good, and yes, the suicide-style rear doors open and close easily and fit well, and with those blind quarters, the rear seat area is quite private. As a southern car, it's solid and shows no evidence of rust issues, and all the chrome is bright and clear. Even that dark green vinyl top with faux landau irons has just the right vibe for the Thunderbird's upscale mission.

Lincoln owners will see reflections of the lovely Continental inside this Thunderbird, where wide black bench seats offer room for six. The woodgrained dash offers five round gauges to maintain the T-Bird's links to its sporty side, and the gauges themselves are in remarkable condition. Notable options include factory A/C, power windows, seats, and locks, plus a rear defroster that was kind of a novelty at the time. The tall seat backs give it the feel of a pair of buckets, with a center armrest that flips out of the way for a third passenger. Carpets, door panels, and even the dash pad are in fantastic condition with just the right amount of bright stainless to keep the interior from getting too dark. There's an AM radio in the dash plus an 8-track player, so hit the garage sales and find some music! There's also a deep trunk that'll carry luggage for the family on a cross-country trip.

Big cars need big power, and the 429 Thunder Jet V8 under the hood certainly delivers. With effortless torque and a smooth demeanor, it's the right choice for luxury power. It's also wonderfully detailed, with Ford Blue engine enamel, correct decals, and no modifications. The A/C compressor dominates the engine bay, but you'll notice other things like the mini cooler for the power steering system, brightly refinished exhaust manifolds, and no issues. A C6 3-speed automatic powers a 9-inch rear nestled into a chassis that's so original and so clean you'd swear this car was only a few years old. 15-inch steel wheels wear original hubcaps and 225/75/15 whitewall radials for the right look on this big luxury cruiser.

So don't tell your friends, but this Thunderbird is a half-price Lincoln with the heart of a Mustang. Uncommon and ready to enjoy, don't miss this chance to enjoy first-class motoring for a bargain price. Call today!