The Details:

The 1960 Ford Thunderbird, part of the model’s second generation (1958–1960), marked a significant evolution in Ford’s approach to personal luxury vehicles.

History:

Introduced in 1958, the second-generation Thunderbird, often referred to as the “Square Bird” due to its distinct styling, transitioned from a two-seat configuration to a four-seat layout. This change aimed to broaden its appeal by combining sports car aesthetics with the practicality of a personal luxury coupe. By 1960, the Thunderbird featured design refinements, including a new grille and the addition of a third tail light in the rear clusters. This model year achieved record sales, with 92,843 units sold, including 11,860 convertibles.

Specifications:

  •   Engines:

     •   Standard Engine: 352 cubic inch (5.8L) V8 producing 300 horsepower at 4,600 RPM and 381 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 RPM.

     •   Optional Engine: 430 cubic inch (7.0L) V8 delivering 350 horsepower.

  •   Transmission:

     •   3-speed manual transmission was standard.

     •   3-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission was available as an option.

  •   Dimensions:

     •   Wheelbase: 113 inches.

     •   Overall Length: 205.3 inches.

     •   Width: 77 inches.

     •   Height: 52.5 inches.

     •   Curb Weight: Approximately 3,800 lbs.

  •   Performance:

     •   The 352 V8 engine provided robust acceleration, suitable for a personal luxury car of its era.

     •   The optional 430 V8 offered enhanced performance for those seeking additional power.

  •   Fuel Capacity:

     •   The fuel tank capacity was approximately 20 gallons.

Notable Features:

  •   The 1960 Thunderbird offered a range of luxury amenities, including power steering and brakes as standard features.

  •   Optional equipment included air conditioning, power windows, and premium interior materials, enhancing the vehicle’s appeal in the personal luxury segment.

  •   A rare option for this model year was a sunroof; the “Golde Edition” (named after the German company Golde, whose sunroof patent Ford licensed) sold 2,530 examples.

The 1960 Ford Thunderbird remains a celebrated classic, embodying the blend of performance, style, and luxury that defined the personal luxury car segment in the late 1950s and early 1960s.