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1962 Ford Thunderbird Rotting Away in a Yard Is an Ambitious Restoration Gone Wrong

1962 T-Bird waiting for a second chance 23 photos
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/eBay seller elstan-86
1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird1962 Ford Thunderbird
1962 was the best year for the third-generation Thunderbird, as Ford produced over 78,000 units, up from 73,000 cars in 1961. The yearly output dropped significantly a year later when only 63,000 T-Birds rolled off the assembly lines.
The 1962 model year witnessed several significant releases, including the debut of a new 390 with higher compression. The upgraded mill sported three two-barrel carburetors and used 406 heads donated by the Ford Galaxie.

Few T-Birds ended up using this engine, as the carmaker ditched it approximately one year after bringing it to the lineup. The 390 continued to be available in the standard configuration alongside the more powerful siblings, including the 427.

A 1962 convertible whose restoration started many years ago ended up abandoned in someone's yard despite still looking doable. It's unclear why the car never received the full overhaul, but the owner is now ready to let it go to someone who can complete what looks like a very challenging restoration project.

The car comes with the typical rust suspects, including on the floors, though I can't say I'm surprised. Based on the images, the vehicle has been sitting under the clear sky for years, and we all know what this means. The rust might have also invaded the trunk, so your best option is probably to find a lift and thoroughly inspect the undersides to assess the floor damage.

It's easy to determine what the car needs by just checking the photos, but an in-person verification would help you get a clearer picture. The convertible top is wrecked and must bereplacedt. The owner says the buyer will also receive some parts that you can't see in the photos, including two good front seats, a back seat, a new dash pad, door panels, and probably other goodies to help with the restoration.

Unfortunately, seller elstan-86 doesn't want to let the car go cheaply, and their expectations seem to make most interested buyers to walk away. The bidding starts at $6,000 despite the car flexing a challenging shape and possibly many missing parts.

The engine is also as mysterious as possible. The eBay listing summary indicates the T-Bird sells with a 390 V8, but the owner didn't share any specifics, so it's impossible to tell if the mill is original or at least turns over by hand.

The lack of information makes this convertible a tough sell, but considering its shape, I believe buyers should first see it in person. The T-Bird is parked in Otis, Colorado, and you'll probably need a trailer to take it home, given its condition. The listing will expire in approximately five days, so fingers crossed for someone to bring back a Thunderbird whose fate let it down years ago.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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