For the second straight year, the Sports Roadster made an appearance at the top of the Thunderbird lineup in 1963. It was a solution that had helped placate purists who thought that the model should be a two-seater as originally designed. The Sports Roadster utilized its streamlined tonneau to cover the rear seats to give a roadster appearance, while allowing this to be readily removable to access the rear seating for journeys with friends or family.

At $5,563 it was also the most expensive T-Bird available in 1963. There were minimal changes in styling as this was the final year of the third generation of Thunderbird styling introduced in 1961. This is one of just 455 Sports Roadsters of a total of 63,313 Thunderbirds produced for 1963. The Sports Roadster was offered only in 1962 and 1963; 1964 saw the factory offer the convertible T-Bird a factory optional tonneau cover. The 1962 Sports Roadster production was also limited in numbers with only 1,427 reported built.

This particular Sports Roadster (identifiable by its style code ‘89’ in the VIN) is handsomely finished in Black with a black convertible top and white interior with light brown carpet. It is the recipient of a frame-on restoration several years ago and is well-preserved and conveyed by the owner to be “absolutely perfect with everything working as it should” plus an interior that remains “near perfect.”

The Thunderbird runs with the Z-code Thunderbird 390-cid, 300-hp V-8 engine that has a four-barrel carburetor and is connected to an automatic transmission, making for a brilliant and responsive performer over any portion of the road. The interior is smartly styled in an almost aircraft cockpit type setting inspired by the jet age and NASA space program influences of the period. A passenger grab bar, impressive instrumentation “pods” and center console with locking compartment and sleek trim that provides fascia for the lower dash and wraps into the door panels and add to the period sporting luxury. This car is well-equipped with bucket seats, remote driver’s side mirror, Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels, whitewall tires, AM/FM radio; power windows, steering and brakes.

Unmatched and unmistakable; it is reassuring to own an automobile that is refined in every detail. The Thunderbird Sports Roadster is a creation that has stood the test of time with a unending look of distinction.