Ford built more than 69,000 Thunderbirds for the 1966 model year, with the Town Landau, identifiable by the body style code 63D, representing nearly half of the total production. Only 5,000 convertibles with body style code 76A0 removable tops left the assembly lines, making them the rarest model.
Putting numbers aside, the 1966 model year saw a significant release in terms of engines. The available mills had a number of significant improvements, beginning with a power increase for the common 390 V8. In order to make the Thunderbird faster and address one of its main drawbacks, the automaker boosted the power output from 300 to 315 horsepower.
Ford also offered the 428, which developed 345 horsepower, as an optional engine. It was a cheap upgrade, available at just $64, so getting it was a no-brainer for anyone particularly interested in the performance side of the vehicle.
Someone has a barn-found Thunderbird that looks compelling, especially for a restorer who wants to save such an iconic model.
The car requires a fresh coat of paint initially because it was stored in a barn for more than 30 years. Although the years of sitting have already taken their toll, the body only shows surface rust in the few photographs provided by seller nikkisparts. I would still hoist the car and check the undersides, but I wouldn’t hope for good news. The seller claims that the T-Bird might be usable as a parts car, despite the fact that the flooring are probably ruined.
The red leather interior is stunning, and the glass is still in wonderful condition. It needs the usual repairs, but first the T-Bird needs to be thoroughly washed because of the barn dust. A car that has been sitting since 1992 might also have parts missing, but the seller gives no indication of this. The listing also doesn’t specify how original the vehicle is still, but given how long it has been in storage, I don’t think it has been tampered with.
However, the good news is the engine was still running when it was moved to storage. The engine’s current condition is unknown, but don’t expect good news in this regard today. A seized engine wouldn’t be surprising, so if you decide to go to Greensburg, Pennsylvania, to see the car in person, make sure you also consult a good mechanic.