The Ford Design Studio, which was headed by Bill Boyer, had been working on a four-seat Thunderbird since mid-1955. With a wheelbase that is a full five inches shorter and a height four inches lower than the full-size Ford, the Thunderbird lost only a quarter inch of ground clearance and rear-seat headroom. To do this, engineers sat passengers down low between high doorsills and a massive driveline tunnel. Cleverly, Boyer hid the driveline tunnel inside an aircraft console, which was a fresh idea in 1958. In addition to being the first available hardtop Thunderbird, the car offered the bucket seats and console interior theme that was to become a benchmark of the personal luxury car concept. On the convertibles, the top disappeared into the trunk, leaving no visible trace.

This award-winning “Squarebird” was restored from the ground up by W.W. Motor Cars & Parts, of Broadway, Virginia, and the work was completed between 1998 and 1999. It was finished in factory-correct Colonial White over a dashing turquoise and white interior, and it is believed to retain its original 300-horsepower, 352-cubic inch “Interceptor” V-8 and three-speed automatic transmission. Like all ’58s, it has power steering, brakes, and convertible top, and it is also equipped with an AM radio and a power driver’s seat. Both shop and owner’s manuals are included, as well as documentation that details the restoration.

Attesting to the quality of the workmanship and the limited use of the car, it was a consistent winner wherever it was shown, which culminated into the car receiving an AACA Grand National Award in 2001. Although this Thunderbird is wearing an older restoration, it benefits from meticulous care, handling, and regular maintenance, and it continues to present very well.