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1960 Ford Thunderbird

The '60 Thunderbird? A classic! Sleek, sporty, and undeniably cool. It marked a shift, becoming smaller and more personal than its predecessors. A symbol of 60s style and sophistication, its iconic profile – low, long, and elegant – remains instantly recognizable. A true American icon.

1960 Ford Thunderbird: A True Classic

The 1960 Ford Thunderbird, a quintessential symbol of American automotive luxury, represents a pivotal shift in car design. Initially making its grand entrance in 1953 to rival the likes of the Chevrolet Corvette, the Thunderbird evolved from a sporty two-seater into a posh four-seat model by the time 1960 rolled around. This evolution undoubtedly broadened its appeal to those looking for both comfort and style—a brand hallmark that enthusiasts continue to admire.

Photo of a 1960 Ford Thunderbird

1960 Ford Thunderbird Models:

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How Much is Ford Thunderbird Worth?

Original MSRP :$3,860.00

Outstanding

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$74,800

Clean

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$54,700

Average

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$33,200*

Rough

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$21,200

1960 Ford Thunderbird Specs

Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 76A
Length: 205.3 inches
Width: 77 inches
Height: 54.2 inches
Wheelbase: 113 inches
Weight: 3,897lbs
Type: V8, Valve-in-head, Downdraft 4-barrel, Helical
Displacement: 351.86 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4 & 3 1/2 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 9.6 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 300@4600
Horsepower Rated: 51.2
Torque: 381@2800
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Engine Number Location: On engine side of dash under hood.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Holley or Ford
Type:
3.75 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
11 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.49 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.59
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.15
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.70 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Hotchkiss
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Tire Size: 8 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 20 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 0Y73Y100001
Total Digits:11
Digits 1:Model year
Digits 2:Assembly plant
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6-11:Production number
Aquamarine, Raven Black, Acapulco Blue, Belmont Blue, Diamond Blue, Kingston Blue, Skymist Blue, Beachwood Brown, Royal Burgandy, Gunpowder Gray, Adriatic Green, Briarcliffe Green, Meadowvale Green, Moroccan Ivory, Platinum, Montecarlo Red, Palm Springs Rose, Springdale Rose, Sultana Turquoise, Corinthian White, All colors may not be available in all models.
Convertible: Opt
Cruise-O-Matic Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Steering: Opt

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History of the 1960 Ford Thunderbird

The Ford Thunderbird's history is as rich and fascinating as they come. Emerging as a quick-fire response to the Chevrolet Corvette back in the early '50s, the Thunderbird was the product of rapid development. The car displayed traits that were atypical for Ford at that time—elegance fused with performance. By the late '50s and advancing into the '60s, changes in consumer preferences shaped the Thunderbird's transformation into a luxurious icon.

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1960 Ford Thunderbird Detailed Specifications

The 1960 Thunderbird, known fondly as the "Square Bird," was a marvel in both design and performance. With a top speed stretching to 120 mph and its zero-to-sixty sprint clocking in at about 9.5 seconds, it was a blend of speed and luxury—a hallmark for its era. Its design featured a distinctive third tail light and luxurious options like the rare "Golde Edition" sunroof.

Famous Figures Who Own the 1960 Ford Thunderbird

Many notable personalities fell for the Thunderbird's charm. Each owner added a touch of glamour and wonder to its story:

Ben Juarez Sr.

Remember Ben Juarez Sr.? He owned a bright orange '60 Thunderbird for a good five years. His connection with the car highlighted the relentless draw the Thunderbird had on people seeking performance wrapped in luxury.

The Thunderbird didn't just capture individual owners; it also became a cultural icon, appearing in films like "Thelma & Louise," standing as a symbol of freedom and adventure.

Fun Facts About the 1960 Ford Thunderbird

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    The 1960 model's unique third tail light wasn't just for looks; it was a signature style that made it unforgettable on the road.

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    The appeal of the Thunderbird reached beyond car events, as it was a dream car for many musicians and filmmakers who embedded its image within their work, echoing themes of rebellion and liberation.

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Looking to buy or sell a classic vehicle like the Thunderbird? Understanding the vehicle's background is crucial. Make sure to gather:

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Learn More About Classic Ford Thunderbirds

If you're keen to explore further, check out tools like the for comprehensive history reports or try the for classic Thunderbirds and other timeless models.

Additionally, if your Thunderbird has one of those quirky unique older VINs, no need to fret! Tools like the and the can provide insights into your ride's past.

Finding those original details like the can be invaluable in preserving the authenticity and value of classic vehicles. Whether you're a collector, aficionado, or just someone with a passion for cars, these resources are your best bet for keeping the essence of automotive history alive.

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Explore Ford Thunderbird from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '60 Thunderbird? It's a real head-turner! You'll instantly recognize its sleek, low-slung profile; that's the hallmark of the design. Think of it as the epitome of cool, you know? Other notable features include the iconic bullet-shaped taillights—pretty unmistakable—and the prominent chrome accents, which, let's be honest, really pop. The overall design is just so distinctive; it's like a classic movie star, timeless and elegant. It's got that unmistakable '60s flair, and it's really something special. Oh, and the optional continental kit! A real status symbol back in the day. It's a car that really oozes sophistication.

The 1960 Thunderbird came with a couple of engine choices. The standard was a 352 cubic inch V8; it provided a solid amount of power. Think of it as a reliable workhorse, but a pretty powerful one at that. However, for those who wanted a bit more oomph (and who didn't, right?), there was a more powerful 352, this one equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. It was a real beast, if I may say so. This gave it a noticeably peppier performance. So, depending on your preference for power, you had options. It's all about what you wanted, really.

Buyers had a choice between a three-speed manual transmission—a classic—or an automatic transmission, also a three-speed Cruise-O-Matic. The automatic was probably the more popular choice, especially for everyday driving, but the manual gearbox certainly appealed to those who liked a little more driver involvement. Automatic transmissions were becoming more common at the time, but many purists still preferred the manual; you know how it is with gearheads.

In 1960, the Thunderbird was only available as a two-seater. That's right, no backseat! This was unlike the earlier years where it had a backseat. They went for a sportier, more focused design. It really focuses on that sleek, sporty appeal. This emphasis on a two-seater configuration contributed heavily to its image as a stylish and undeniably cool personal car.

That's tricky! The value of a classic car like a '60 Thunderbird hinges on a whole bunch of factors—condition, mileage, originality and so on. Think of it like buying a house: location, location, location! A pristine, fully restored example could command a pretty hefty price; I'm talking upwards of $50,000—or even more, depending on the specifics. But, a project car, one that needs some work, might be found at a more affordable price point. So, you really gotta do your homework and find out the details.

Like any classic car, these beauties can present some challenges. Things to look out for include the electrical system—those old wires can be finicky. The braking system too needs a good check; it's a safety issue, folks. Also, rust, especially in older cars kept in colder climates. A lot of these cars get affected by it and need some love. It's always a good idea to get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic specializing in classic cars. You're making a big investment, you should protect it!