This book covers two generations of Ford Thunderbirds, the square-bird models which lasted from 1958 to 1960 and the pointed-nose cars which took over in 1961 and lasted until 1963. In these years, it is arguable that Ford was still defining the Thunderbird market, and it is clear from sales figures that the company was succeeding. Sales of the 1958 range reached 38,000 more than any of the 1955-57 line had managed and 1960 saw 91,000 although totals settled back down to 75,000 or so in the early 1960s. The 1955-57 Thunderbirds had introduced the idea of luxury features to the two-seater market, but they had also made clear to Ford that what buyers really wanted was four seats. So the new 1958 models were much bigger cars than before, with four seats for the first time and a completely restyled unibody shell. There were convertibles as before, but the removable hardtop option had gone, and in its place was a fixed hardtop model. All these cars came with a new big-block 352ci V8, developing 300bhp. The 1959s differed mainly in cosmetic details - a decorative hood scoop, tail light appliques, and so on, but they also came with the option of a 350bhp Lincoln V8 with 430ci. Sales went up, and Ford knew it was getting the recipe right. So the 1960s were little changed once again. Engines remained as before, and there were just grille, tail light and trim differences. But this year's predominance of hardtop sales over convertibles made clear that Thunderbird customers wanted luxury rather than sportiness. So Ford resolved to provide that. The 1961s were very different visually, although these third-generation cars had the same wheelbase as before. Styling was cleaner, with a distinctive point to the nose, and discreet tail fins were the only real decoration on gently curving body sides. A 390ci V8 was added to the options list, and on 1962 and 1963 models this could be bought with an optional extra 40bhp. The 1962s and 1963s looked much like the first of their line, although 1962 brought two new models. One was the Sports Roadster, with a fibre-glass tonneau cover over the rear seats to give the impression of a two-seater and meet demand from some quarters. This car did not sell well, though, while the Landau model introduced at the same time prove a runaway success. Essentially, this was a hardtop with a vinyl-covered roof and upgraded interior. It was clearly what most Thunderbird customers wanted, and its success dictated the way the T-bird line would go in later years. Less overtly sporty than their immediate ancestors, these Thunderbirds nevertheless command a big following today. Enthusiasts will enjoy reading the articles here, which show how the cars were viewed when they were new. This is a book of contemporary road & comparison tests, consumer analysis, new model intros & history. Models covered: 352, 430 & 390. 140 pages, 300 illus. SB.
