While the first generation of Thunderbirds had been known to be just a sporty as they were luxurious, the “Bullet-Birds” from 1961 to 1963 had wholly embraced their market niche as a personal luxury car. However, some dealers and customers missed the sportier two-seater Thunderbirds, so a sports roadster that featured a removable tonneau that covered up the rear seats was introduced in 1962 to go alongside the Hardtop Coupe, Landau and Convertible. Ford upped the ante of performance in 1963, and what truly made the Thunderbird stand out was the addition of the 390-cubic inch V-8 with three Holley two-barrel carburetors and nicknamed “M-code” due to the M designation in its chassis number, which signified this incredible tri-power unit. Along with the engine dress-up kit; the M-Code features a larger cam, special heads and larger dual exhaust.

This particular Thunderbird Convertible M-Code was produced in September 1962 as a 1963 model and delivered to Jack Bower Ford, of Ponca City, Oklahoma. It was finished in color code M (Corinthian White) over code 55 (Red vinyl) and was outfitted with a number of desirable options, including power windows, driver’s seat and factory air conditioning. Additional equipment includes a “space age” influenced instrument pod in front of the operator, remote sideview mirror, chromed wire wheels, tastefully-sized whitewall tires, factory Thunderbird-labelled AM/FM radio, distinctive center console and an inviting interior layout that instantly reminds you that this is a special car.

According to the associated data tag; this car displays body type 76A, which translates to the Convertible versus the 76B designation of the factory Sports Roadsters. This exceptional example was fitted with a sports roadster fiberglass tonneau cover to enhance its looks sometime later in its life, possibly during a restoration. While it covers the rear seat for a stylish look, it still allows the soft-top to operate while the cover remains in place.

The original build sheet and a copy of the factory invoice accompany the car as well. This car has been well preserved and was formerly part of the esteemed Sam Pack Collection where it was maintained in the proper manner. It shows nicely and would certainly be an exciting driver, for either two or four occupants. M-Code Thunderbirds in general are a rare sight.

In 1963, Ford produced a total of 63,313 Thunderbird units in four different body styles. Of this sum; 5,913 were Convertibles while 455 Sports Roadsters were built. According to sources, M-Code production was limited to the 1962 and 1963 model years. The first Birds documented to be equipped with the M-Code engine were built in January, 1962. Production of the M-Code series, it is stated, ceased in mid-January, 1963. According to William Wonder, who wrote Thunderbird Restoration Guide 1958-1966, © 1997, only a combined total of 275 M-Code series cars are known to have been built in that 12 month period. With far fewer convertible Thunderbirds receiving this rare powerplant option, it makes this 1963 Ford Thunderbird Convertible M-Code an opportunity that warrants serious consideration from any Thunderbird enthusiast. Total Performance awaits.