Some skeptics questioned whether the dramatically different four-seat Thunderbird would appeal to purchasers in the same manner as the more openly athletic two-seat predecessor when Ford unveiled it in 1958.
Any reservations were quickly dispelled when the new four-passenger Thunderbird shattered previous sales records, selling 200,000 cars in only three years. For the third generation T-Bird, which debuted in 1961, Ford prudently kept to the formula. Of course, the most noticeable modification was the entirely new and current body style. A smoother profile, inset headlights, and a distinguishing pointed nose treatment were all part of the new design. The sweeping, wrinkled beltline ran from the point of the front bumper to the end of the tail, finishing in large circular taillights that resembled jet engine afterburners. It was quite elegant without being unduly ornate.
The Thunderbird, which was available as a coupe or convertible, continued to be a hit for Ford, and it prompted other automakers to enter the personal luxury automobile market, although few were able to match the Thunderbird’s unfettered popularity.
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During its period of production, the vehicle has seen a variety of body shapes and engine displacements, as well as swings from sporty to personal luxury to full-fledged luxury and back.
The fabulous interior of these early 1960s Thunderbirds is a standout.
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The first Ford Thunderbird was an appealing mix of elegance and sportiness that drew a considerably wider audience than the early Chevrolet Corvette. In spite of its popularity, the third-generation Thunderbird, nicknamed “Bullet Bird” for its projectile-like look, is still the most visually beautiful of all.
The “Bullet Bird,” which was only produced from 1961 to 1963, was constantly modified and updated during its short manufacturing life and is still very beloved among Thunderbird fans today. For 1961-63, four types were available: the hardtop, formal Landau hardtop, convertible, and, starting in 1962, the sports roadster. The Thunderbird was touted as the most altered automobile we are presenting for 1963. The majority of the changes, however, occur inside the vehicle.
The electrical system and accessories on the 1963 Thunderbird were upgraded, along with a new vertical-bar grille design and improvements to the body sides and tail lights. It also received additional sound deadening material and a quieter and longer-life exhaust system, as well as numerous upgrades to the electrical system and accessories, all of which improved operation and reliability.
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As a result, today’s most informed and ardent historic Thunderbird collectors are especially interested in the final-year “Bullet” Thunderbirds.
The 1963 Ford Thunderbird is one of the most entertaining and distinctively styled American automobiles of the era. It’s a wonderful option for a first classic, with legions of dedicated owners and solid parts support, and its exceptional craftsmanship means it’d fit in with practically any existing collection. This vehicle is one of the greatest third-generation T-birds we’ve seen, and it’s a great family car to enjoy on the open road or display with the AACA or any number of specialty groups. Check out the 1963 Ford Thunderbird on our website.
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