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1962 Ford Thunderbird

The '62 Thunderbird? A classic! Sleek, sporty, and undeniably cool. It marked a shift in design, smaller than previous models but still luxurious. A symbol of '60s style and freedom, it's instantly recognizable with its sharp lines and iconic profile. A true American beauty!

The Fascinating World of Classic Cars: The 1962 Ford Thunderbird

The 1962 Ford Thunderbird, affectionately known as the T-Bird, is a true icon of American automotive history. With its elegant styling, powerful performance, and rich cultural lineage, it has captivated enthusiasts and collectors alike. Initially built as a mark of luxury and innovation, the Thunderbird has seen varied fates—from its heyday in the 60s to fluctuating auction prices and continued admiration in modern pop culture.

Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird

1962 Ford Thunderbird Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Ford Thunderbird Worth?

Original MSRP :$5,439.00

Outstanding

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$95,400

Clean

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$64,900

Average

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$40,700*

Rough

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$27,400

1962 Ford Thunderbird Specs

Body Maker: Ford
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 76A
Length: 205 inches
Width: 76 inches
Height: 54.2 inches
Wheelbase: 113 inches
Weight: 4,471lbs
Type: V8, Valve-in-head, Downdraft 4-barrel, Cruise-O-Matic automatic
Displacement: 389.09 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4 3/64 & 3 25/32 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 9.6 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 300@4600
Horsepower Rated: 52.41
Torque: 427@2800
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Engine Number Location: Plate on left front door pillar post.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Own
Type:
19 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Second:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Third:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
Not applicable
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.00 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: Power, hydraulic
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 2Y85Z100001
Total Digits:11
Digits 1:Model year
Digits 2:Assembly plant
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6-11:Production number
Raven Black, Corinthian White, Rangoon Red, Silver Mink, Diamond Blue, Acapulco Blue, Caspian Blue, Cascade Green, Chalfonte Blue, Patrician Green, Ming Green, Deep Sea Blue, Sandshell Beige, Fieldstone Tan, Chestnut, Castillian Gold, Tucson Yellow, Sahara Rose, Heritage Burgandy, Skymist Blue
Sport Roadster: Opt

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History of Ford Thunderbird

Let's travel back to the early 60s. The Ford Thunderbird was evolving into something spectacular. Specifically, the 1962 model—built initially on November 1 and delivered to its first buyer in mid-November—became noted for its defining styles, like the Sports Roadster variant. The T-Bird wasn't just about getting from A to B; it was about making a statement.

The 1962 Ford Thunderbird's production was quite impressive, with 78,011 units made. This included almost 10,000 convertibles, showing a market eager for a blend of style and open-air freedom. The Sports Roadster, though pricier and a bit exclusive, did see famous owners, which we'll chat about soon.

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Popular Figures Who Own Ford Thunderbird

Here's the real fun part. Everyone loves a good celeb-and-car story, don't they? Well, this Thunderbird has a roster of famous names attached to it, only fueling its legend.

Sammy Hagar

Ah, the Red Rocker himself—Sammy Hagar. This rock and roll legend is famously known for his love of cars, and yes, he owned a 1962 Thunderbird. Restored to immaculate glory, Hagar's Thunderbird wasn't just any vehicle; it was a cherished ride that cruised alongside the stories of his band, Montrose. And with predictions of its appearance in future auctions, this car's tale just keeps getting juicier.

Marilyn Monroe

Now, how could we overlook the glamorous Marilyn Monroe? A 1955 Ford Thunderbird convertible was her choice until her untimely passing. Set to be auctioned, her T-Bird is a slice of Hollywood history in and of itself—linking this car forever to the allure of classic cinema.

Milo Ventimiglia

Milo Ventimiglia might not own a Thunderbird specifically, but his love for classic vehicles like his 1967 Triumph Bonneville shows a great appreciation for automotive beauty. These vehicles, whether two-wheeled or four, reflect a passion for the artistry behind every curve and chrome detail.

Fun Facts About the Thunderbird

Beyond its famous owners, the Thunderbird is notable for its cultural appearances. It was a film star too! Remember the movie "Targets" from 1968? There, amidst the drama, a white Thunderbird graced the screen in a memorable drive-in scene.

1962 Ford Thunderbird Gallery

Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird
Photo of a 1962 Ford Thunderbird

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Buying or selling a piece of this glorious past comes with its own set of challenges. One critical aspect is getting the full story of your vehicle through detailed reports. This documentation can influence your buying confidence or selling price like nothing else:

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Specifications: A Peek Under the Hood

Some folks buy with their hearts and others with their heads. For those in the latter camp, the drivetrain and performance specs of the 1962 Thunderbird are just as critical as its looks. It featured a beefy Ford 390-4V engine, capable of reaching from 0 to 100 km/h in about 10 seconds, a testament to its powerful punch.

For keen restorers, decoding that VIN properly is hugely important. Look into accurate services to ensure your classic car beauty is prepared for whatever journey you have in mind.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The '62 Thunderbird, my friend, is a real looker! It's instantly recognizable by its sleek, sporty lines; the iconic, swooping roofline is a dead giveaway. Think of it as the epitome of early '60s American style – a bit like a perfectly tailored suit, you know? Key features include the distinctive 'bullet' taillights, a longer wheelbase than previous models (giving it that extra bit of elegance), and of course, those fantastic chrome accents. They really knew how to make a car shine back then, didn't they? Oh, and let's not forget the available options – power everything was pretty standard, even bucket seats! It's a classic for a reason, you see.

Under the hood, you had a couple of choices – both pretty powerful for their time. The standard was a 390 cubic inch V8, a real beast! Think of it as the workhorse of the lineup – plenty of get-up-and-go for cruising down the highway. But if you wanted something really special, there was a 406 cubic inch V8 which is super rare and super desirable, offering even more power. They're both pretty legendary engines, to be honest. So, yeah, power was never a problem in these cars.

The value, well, that's a bit of a rollercoaster ride! A concours-condition '62 T-bird? You're looking at a hefty price tag; we're talking serious money, you understand. But a car that needs a little TLC? You'll likely save a ton, which is not a bad thing. Options like power windows, air conditioning (a real luxury back then), and the specific interior trim significantly impact value, it's true. Think of it like buying a house; location, condition, and amenities all play huge roles in the price. It really is a case-by-case scenario, though; do your research!

Being a classic car, of course, it does come with its quirks. Electrical gremlins, they're infamous, you know – wires age, things break. The braking system might require attention; these old cars need regular maintenance. The suspension can get a bit creaky too, which isn't exactly uncommon with older vehicles, but nothing a good mechanic can't handle! It's all about regular care and attention, that's the key. Consider it a bit like an old house – it needs a bit of love and care to stay in top shape.

Finding parts can be a bit of a treasure hunt, let me tell ya. There are tons of online retailers specializing in classic car parts; you'll find plenty of options there. You might want to check out some specialist suppliers, maybe even some local salvage yards. Don’t count out the swap meets and classic car shows too; it's a real community, and you’ll meet some great people. But it's mostly about being patient and persistent, really; you'll eventually find what you need.