The 1964 model year was the best iteration of this new Thunderbird generation, with Ford shipping close to 92,500 units.
The yearly production declined gradually in the next years, first to 74,972 units in 1965 and 69,176 units in 1966.
Distinguishing the 1964 release from the other models in the fourth generation is a piece of cake thanks to a change that Ford operated on the later models. The 1964 Thunderbird came with the “Thunderbird” name on the front hood, with the carmaker migrating to a simplified logo beginning with the 1965 model.
A 1964 T-Bird landed on eBay earlier this week courtesy of seller stillgottalotta to look for a new home, and at a quick digital inspection, the car has little to make a potential buyer walk away. Only 5% of the vehicle is meh, albeit it looks easy to repair.
The paint is 95% original, with the owner explaining that it received some repairs in the back by a classic car shop. However, you’ll have to inspect the car in person or order a third-party inspection to determine the quality of the touch-up, especially if you’re interested in the perfect Thunderbird for your collection.
Otherwise, it’s hard to find something to complain about on this Thunderbird. The car starts, runs, and drives, and has an almost perfect interior. Everything is original, and the odometer indicates 46,000 miles. The mileage is original, and the seller explains that the vehicle needs some repairs, including new mufflers – the original ones are still in place but don’t work properly.
Everything seems to indicate that the T-Bird will only need minor fixes to return to a perfect-10 shape, but the photos already prove the car is a head-turning machine. It shines great in direct sunlight, and the interior is wow, especially considering it has never been redone since it left the factory in 1964.
The black-plated Thunderbird looks great, and I doubt it’ll remain available for long. However, it’s safe to say the vehicle won’t sell cheaply, especially considering its shape. The owner posted the T-Bird on eBay with a $10K starting bid, but they also configured a reserve. It’s unclear how high the bidding must go to give this Thunderbird a second chance, but considering the bidding is still in its early days, we’ll have to wait six more days to get more information.
Meanwhile, anyone can see this Thunderbird in person in Orange, California, and you should also be able to take it for a spin, considering everything is in working shape. You can also drive the car home on its wheels, but given that it’s a survivor with everything original, you might want to get it on a trailer if you’re committed to a purchase.