Ford Motor Company introduced the third generation Thunderbird in 1961. The new sleek, aerodynamic design was influenced by the fighter jets of the era and gave the thunderbird a ready for takeoff appearance that some found inspiring. Then U.S. President-elect John F. Kennedy used 50 examples of Ford’s new entry level luxury model in his inaugural parade.

The pinnacle of the third generation Thunderbird was the Sports Roadster package introduced in 1962 and only offered through the 1963 model year. The Sports Roadster was accented by special badging, a color matched passenger dash grab handle, and Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels with “knock off” style hubcaps. However the pinnacle difference was the removable tonneau cover that sealed off the back seat and would not limit the use of the power convertible top when in place. This striking addition transformed the four seat arrangement into a sporty two seater that called back to the first generation of T-birds introduced in 1955.

While the new Thunderbird and Thunderbird Sports Roadster were up to par on style, Ford was still looking to dial in more performance. 1962 saw the introduction of the M-code. Displaying the engine code M in the chassis number, the M-code cars utilized three two barrel carburetors. This “tri-power” setup was completed with a special intake manifold feeding Ford 406 heads on top of the Thunderbird 390 V8 block, resulting in an incredible 340hp. Desired by many, purchased by few the M-code was phased out in the middle of the 1963 model year. While Ford produced 1,427 Sports Roadsters for 1962, only 120 were true M-code Sports Roadsters, making the M-code Sports Roadsters the most coveted of all third generation Thunderbirds.

The 1962 Ford Thunderbird M-Code Sports Roadster featured here is finished in stunning Rangoon Red with a beautiful red interior. This Ford Thunderbird is an exceptional example of an M-code Sports Roadster with the 340 horsepower tri-power carburetor set up. Enhancing the engine is a beautiful dress up kit. It comes equipped with power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seat, and Kelsey Hayes wire wheels. An outstanding M-code, this example is restored to what should be the standard of all third generation T-birds. We are proud to offer this investment-grade Sports Roadster to the most demanding collector or enthusiast who appreciates the distinctiveness of this Great American classic. Classic cars have proven to be among the most resilient and rewarding investments in recent years with the Historic Automobile Group Index (HAGI) jumping 39% in 2013 and posting gains of 395-percent over the last 10-years. Ready to make an investment you can actually enjoy? Please contact one of our expert sales consultants for more information. They will be happy to give you a complete walk-around, supply you with a more detailed description, and answer any questions you may have. Bid with confidence; you will not be disappointed in this truly rare find!