1962 Ford Thunderbird Factory Sports Roadster M-code #46 Of 120 on 2040-cars

Of the 1,427 Thunderbird Sports Roadsters produced in 1962, this example VIN#2Y89M147868 is one of only 120 factory Sports Roadsters to be fitted with the “M”-code tri-power high performance engine.  The “M” Roadster’s power plant is a 390cu. in. overhead valve V8 with 10.5:1 compression, three two-barrel Holley carburetors, three-speed automatic cruise-o-matic transmission, front independent and 3:00 live rear axle with leaf-spring suspension and a wheelbase of 113".  This formidable “M” power plant produced an impressive 340 horsepower and is enhanced on this car by an engine dress up kit. In addition to the highly sought after M-code engine option, the Thunderbird Sports Roadster comes equipped with power steering, four wheel power drum brakes, power windows, a power seat, tilt-away steering wheel, AM/FM radio and an analog clock with the original internal working movements.  The Thunderbird is cosmetically original and mechanically restored to the highest standards with meticulous attention paid to authenticity and Vintage Thunderbird Club standards. Today this Thunderbird Sports Roadster ranks among the best of the few examples left in existence.  Such limited production numbers have rendered the M-Code Sports Roadster one of the most collectable Ford automobiles to date. This original example with all matching numbers is no exception and simultaneously remains a potent performer and a viable competitor at respected show events.

Finished in its original Rangoon Red accented by an original Black convertible top, beautifully original chrome and red tonneau cover, at first glance, the Sports Roadster commands attention. The cockpit-style interior remains in excellent condition, and features the original black upholstery with black carpeting.  Up close the viewer is rewarded as finer details come into view with excellent detailing present on all areas of the car. The Thunderbird presented here possesses both the Sports Roadster package and the “M”-Code engine, making it the ultimate embodiment of the enthusiast’s Thunderbird.

The original engine bay is impressively detailed, with correct finishes used throughout. In addition, the current owner has kept original the bright components, including the hood hinges and latches, the coolant recovery tank, and the optional engine dress-up kit. The car also features a highly detailed trunk with well-fitted, period correct floor mats and spare tire cover. Additionally, the power top mechanism and wiring are in very good order.

This handsome Thunderbird is one of a mere 120 Sports Roadsters produced in 1962 with the M-Code high-performance engine, and is offered with its original build sheet and a copy of the original shipping invoice. It will provide its next owner/collector/museum with an abundance of style and top-down motoring excitement with the value of a rare appreciating investment.

Purchased by its current collector over 25 years ago from an individual who owned the vehicle for 25 years, this all-original Sports Roadster is one ultra-rare Thunderbird delivered with the factory M-Code option.

History of the M-Series Sports Roadster Thunderbird:

The third generation Ford Thunderbird introduced in 1961 reflected the bold, youthful enthusiasm taking hold in the U.S. Its aggressive, sleek design, influenced by the aerodynamic fighter jet, captivated youthful president-elect John Kennedy, who used 50 Thunderbirds in his inaugural procession.

Ford executives positioned the Thunderbird in the low-end luxury segment, and the model's shining star was the convertible Sports Roadster, an option package available only in 1962 and 1963. Ford only made 1,427 convertibles with the Sports Roadster package in 1962 and a mere 455 Sports Roadster in 1963. The company would have built more, except for the price of the Sports Roadster package, which drove the convertible to only $149 less than the price of a Cadillac ’62 convertible. This impacted sales, but not desire.

The original Ford Thunderbird was an irresistible combination of luxury and sportiness that appealed to a much larger market than did the Chevrolet Corvette. The second-generation “Square Birds”, which provided seating for four, proved even more popular and it was clear that consumers were primarily concerned with personal luxury over sportiness. The third-generation Thunderbird, introduced in 1961, featured a sharply-pointed front profile, and was aptly nicknamed the “Bullet Bird”.

The third generation Thunderbird did little to stem the tide of complaints from sports car devotees. Tired of hearing from discontented dealers, Lee A. Iacocca finally charged Bud Kaufman with finding a solution. The resultant Sports Roadster package consisted of a hard tonneau cover sealing off the rear seats and adding drama while imitating the original two-seat Thunderbird. Conveniently, the convertible top could be raised with the tonneau cover in place. Available as a dealer-installed item, the tonneau cover was made available near the end of first year production. Sales were so promising that Iacocca asked Kaufman to have a Sports Roadster variant of the Thunderbird ready in time for the introduction of the 1962 model year.. Also included was special badging, a color-keyed passenger assist bar mounted on the dashboard and five Kelsey-Hayes chrome plated wire wheels with knock off centers.

Meanwhile, Ford continued to offer a series of high-performance engine choices for the customer who wanted all the comfort the Thunderbird offered as well as enough power to embarrass Corvette owners. By 1962, the M-Code 390 cubic inch V8 engine was released, with induction handled by a trio of Holley two-barrel carburetors. This engine produced a stout 340 brake horsepower, and moved the “Bullet Bird” with authority.

While the Sports Roadster was a particularly desirable variant and a favorite of such notables as Dino de Laurentiis and Elvis Presley, it was the M-Code variant that added yet another level of exclusivity to the mix.

Serious Buyers/Collectors call 585-202-7362 to have any questions answered.

Body 76B Color J Color 56 Date 01C DSO 23 Axle 1 Transmission 4

Sports Roadster Convertible, Rangoon Red Ext, Black Vinyl Int & Top, March 1 1962, PA, 3:00, Cruise-O-matic

MATCHING NUMBERS FOR M-CODE AUTHENTICITY:

C2SE A A 2LB              MIDDLE CARB

C2SE B A 2KB              BACK CARB

C2SE B A 2BB              FRONT CARB

C2SE 6090-A                 BLOCK

C2SF 12127-B               DISTRIBUTER

C1SD 7000-F PCE-K   TRANSMISSION

Recent Auction Sales of the ‘62-‘63 Ford Thunderbird M-Code Sports Roadster