132801 / 1963 Ford Thunderbird

With a real deal 428 Police Interceptor dual quad V8, completely sorted mechanicals and a body that's fit for an astronaut, this 1963 Ford Thunderbird is the perfect weekend bruiser for anyone who enjoys getting a little fresh air out on the open road.

Solid and straight, this T-bird's jet-inspired body reflects picturesque correct Ford code A Black paint which exudes a rich and classy demeanor. From its excellent shine to its chip free rocker panels, the car's deep, glossy finish is as nice as many of our much more expensive offerings, and certainly nicer than when the car rolled out of a Ford showroom almost 50 years ago. Ford Black is legendary for its upscale appearance, and when paired with this Thunderbird's streamlined red interior it creates the perfect visual culmination of speed and sophistication. Naturally, a design like this requires top-notch panel fit and it appears the folks who put this car together took a lot of time making sure every inch of the bullet-like body maintained the excellent cohesion of the original design. In short, the body & paint on this car are exceptional, and it's a stunning tribute to one of the coolest designs to ever fly out of Dearborn, Michigan.

Lift this cars long black hood and you'll find a hot 428 Police Interceptor V8 which provides way more scoot than any tired, old run-of-the-mill 390 ever could. This high horsepower 1967 428 engine is complete with a correct dual four barrel carburetor set up. Firing instantly and purring to life with ease, it's a torque-happy monster which pushes this relatively lightweight body down the road with authority. Aesthetically, the engine bay is exceptionally clean for a car that's seen regular use and features appropriate dress up items like finned aluminum Shelby valve covers and an aluminum air cleaner alongside well placed chrome accents. More observant readers will notice some thoughtful and correct upgrades which include a seven blade flex fan, a reproduction Autolite Sta Ful battery and a cool FoMoCo washer fluid bag.

At the bottom of this incredibly solid car, rust free floor pans combine with a straight and sturdy frame to provide an excellent foundation for years of top down fun. Under the engine, a reliable coil spring suspension holds factory optioned power steering between correct power drum brakes. At the back of the car, sturdy looking leaf springs are flanked by two more correct power drum brakes and what appears to be the cars original rear end. Behind the big 428 engine, an original C6 Cruise-O-Matic 3-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and puts the power to the ground with ease. At the center of the car, a mandrel bent dual exhaust system sends spent gas into an H-pipe crossover and factory replacement mufflers; and at the corners of the car, correct Kelsey Hayes designed 48 spoke wire wheel covers wear fresh 215/75 Mohave white wall tires.

Inside the car, a stunning streamlined Ford code 55 red interior combines excellent looking stainless trim with plush silver piped seats and a like-new dash. Ingress and egress is made easier by the first ever application of a tilt steering column which holds a classic ornate wheel on top of a chrome column shifter. Luxuries such as power windows, remote mirrors and power convertible top controls are sprinkled throughout the interior, and Ford's Selectaire air conditioning system turns hot days into cool rides. Below the seats, fresh red carpet holds by new black rubber T-bird floor mats below a substantial locking console and billet foot pedals; and at the sides of the seats, sculpted door panels prop long arm rests under great looking stainless trim. In front of the driver, a dramatic dual cowl dash houses a correct Thunderbird radio and awesome looking '3D' gauges that were inspired by the space program are some of the coolest I've ever seen.

It doesn't matter whether you're a Ford guy, a Mopar guy or a Chevy guy, this buff Thunderbird is one of those cool cars that transcends barriers and has universal appeal. Call, click or visit RKMotorsCharlotte.com for more information on this awesome high value cruiser.