Ford followed up the “Squarebird’s" three-year stint with the restyled “Roundbird” from 1961 to 1963. Technical highlights included an even bigger engine as Dearborn’s FE V-8 was enlarged to 390 cubic inches in ’61. New for 1962 was the optional “M-code” 390, a 340-horsepower V-8 crowned with three Holley two-barrel carburetors. More commonly found is the Z-code V-8, rated at 300 whopping horsepower. A Thunderbird convertible paced the Indianapolis 500 in 1961 and two new models debuted the following year. The first, a Landau hardtop, incorporated a standard vinyl roof and simulated walnut interior appointments. The second, the more famous Sports Roadster, helped ease roadster purists’ pains by covering the backseat with a streamlined tonneau cover. Dazzling Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels also were included in the deal. T-birds were priced at a hefty $5,439 in 1962, and $5,563 in 1963. Sports Roadster production was 1,427 in 1962, 455 in 1963.

Shown here in Rangoon Red, this mid-generation offer is full of very desirable options that will please any Ford enthusiast. It has an aftermarket radio, power steering & brakes, driver & passenger power bucket seats, slide-away steering wheel, roadster tonneau cover with passenger grab bar, dual outside mirrors, wide whitewall radial tires, Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels, factory air conditioning, dual exhaust. This example is stated to have been built on August 28, 1961 and delivered to C&C Motors, Inc. of Hatboro, Pennsylvania with an MSRP of $5,906.50. It was an expensive purchase more than 50 years ago and continues to be a valuable asset today.