Ford’s third-generation Thunderbird debuted for 1961, and while the sleek, new design was successful from the start, many buyers still yearned for the original two-seat T-Birds of 1955-57. In response, Ford stylist Bud Kaufman designed a neat fiberglass tonneau cover that fitted over the rear-seat area to create the visual impression of a two-seat roadster with a very long rear deck. Racy faired-in and upholstered headrests, reminiscent of the era’s sports-racing cars, occupied the leading edge of the tonneau, just above the bucket seatbacks. Factory- available with the tonneau cover for 1962-63, the Thunderbird Sports Roadster also included a set of Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels and deletion of the normal rear-fender skirts. According to printed sources, the Sports Roadster was priced at about $5,500 when new and production was limited to just 1,427 factory-built for 1962 and another 455 for 1963, followed by a handful sold from Ford dealers for 1964. Today, with their projectile-like Jet Age styling and brawny 390 CI V-8 powerplants, these sleek Thunderbirds continue to rank among the most desirable and collectible Thunderbird models ever produced. Built on May 24, 1962 for the Boston District Sales Office and sold new at Turney Motors Inc. in Williamstown, New Jersey, this striking Thunderbird is the only M-Code Sports Roadster painted in Chestnut Metallic for 1962. Featuring a concours restoration by Bird Nest Inc. of West Linn, Oregon, using many NOS parts, it features the high-performance M-Code 390/340 HP V-8 engine with Tri-Power carburetion and an automatic transmission. Other highlights include the matching Chestnut interior, power brakes and steering, a pushbutton radio, tinted glass, windshield washers, power windows and a power- adjustable driver’s seat. Confirming its quality, this singular “Bullet Bird” was awarded First Place honors at the Vintage Thunderbird Club International (VTCI) Concours in 2021 and received Senior status. In addition to an original Ford gate release from Lois Eminger, this exceedingly rare, award-winning M-Code 1962 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster is equipped with a set of five original NOS Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels with whitewall tires, including the spare, plus judging sheets and a matching Hot Wheels diecast miniature.
