Lot details Registration No: 145 FWB Chassis No: 5Y85Z122485 Mot Expiry: April 2013
By the time Ford dispensed (at least temporarily) with the Thunderbird moniker in 2005, the model had progressed through no less than 11 generations, the combined production total of which was in excess of 4.4 million. It had also been immortalised by the Beach Boys' hit song Fun Fun Fun. The first generation car hit the streets in October 1954 and, while it was created in direct response to Chevrolet's Corvette, Ford's emphasis was more on comfort than overt sportiness. Though sleeker than most of its Ford siblings, it shared many of their components and the 292ci (4.8-litre) V8 engine was borrowed from the company's Mercury division. By the time the fourth generation appeared in 1964, the T-Bird was an altogether larger proposition, with four rather than two seats and power from a 6.4-litre V8 of either 300bhp or 330bhp, mated to a three-speed automatic gearbox. The styling reflected the trend for twin headlamps and by 1965 disc brakes had become standard fare for the front wheels. There was the choice of Coupe, Convertible or Landau body styles; each equally imposing in their own way.
This splendid-looking fourth generation T-Bird was manufactured in 1965 and has apparently remained within the same family ownership since new and been garaged all its life. The indicated mileage of just 53,500 is guaranteed by the vendor, with MOTs to back it up. The Ford is finished in White complemented by a Red leather interior and Red hood, and has recently been treated to in excess of £5,000 worth of mechanical refurbishment. It is now considered by the vendor to have "very good" bodywork and interior trim, and "good" paintwork, 6.4-litre V8 engine and three-speed automatic transmission. '145 FWB' is being sold complete with receipts for the recent work, original record player and MOT into April next year.
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