315 bhp, 390 cu. in. V-8 engine, single four-barrel Holley carburetor, C-6 three-speed automatic transmission, independent front suspension with upper and lower A-arms and coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and front disc, rear drum hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 113"

• Concours-quality restoration completed in 2005

• Consistent award winner in AACA and VTCI judging

• Powerful 390 V-8, well equipped

Following tradition, after the three-year production cycle of the 1961-1963 “Bullet Bird,” 1964 saw the introduction of the fourth-generation Thunderbird, often known as the “Flair Bird” among enthusiasts. While retaining the same basic structure and dimensions of the previous models, the new Thunderbird’s exterior styling was completely revised with a lengthened hood and a shortened, more formal roofline.

Some innovations intended for the new Thunderbird were delayed and only reached production in 1965. Most notably, front disc brakes became standard for 1965, and the dramatic sequential rear turn signals were delayed in certain states. For 1966, the last year of the “Flair Bird,” styling was again dramatically revised and decidedly sportier, with the front end now featuring a large “Thunderbird” emblem and a steeply raked forward “egg crate” grille, while a large singular taillight dominated the rear of the car.

This multiple award-winning example is one of the 5,049 Thunderbird Convertibles built for 1966 and was acquired by the present owner in New Mexico in 1985. It has been in the same ownership for a remarkable 26 years. It received a four-year, concours-quality restoration that was completed in 2005, culminating in AACA Senior Grand National and Vintage Thunderbird Club International (VTCI) First Senior status (390 of 400 possible points), in addition to a pair of Best in Class awards at Houston’s Keels and Wheels Concours. With the same attention afforded to the engine, transmission and suspension as to the exterior of the car, the Thunderbird exhibits impressive attention to detail, including completely re-plated interior and exterior brightwork and new old stock vinyl upholstery. Equipped with all expected power features and riding on a set of 15-inch Kelsey-Hayes style chrome wire wheels, this multiple award-winning 1966 Thunderbird Convertible is an outstanding example of “America’s Personal Luxury Car” in its most desirable open form.