The Thunderbird (1964–1966) Fourth Generation
The 1964 Thunderbird reverted partially to the square design theme. It was more angular than the 1961-63 models, yet not as square as the 1958-60 models. The new styling featured a longer hood, a shorter roof line and sculptured side panels.
With the bumper and grille designed to provide a faster, more aerodynamic look, the overall styling continued Thunderbird’s by-now traditional image of “swift-lined sleekness.”
Interior design also reflected the space-age styling of the early and mid-1960s. Featured were luxuriously padded, high, thin shell, contoured individual seats, “pistol grip” door handles and a full-width, safety-padded instrument panel. Radio, clock and retractable seat belts also were standard. New options included individual reclining seats and trailer towing equipment. And, insulation and sound-proofing were improved to the point that they were described as “super.”
Though the design for the 4,760-pound car was essentially the same as 1964-65 models, the 1966 Thunderbird became a collector’s favorite because it is regarded as the best of the four-seaters of the era.
The 1966 edition offered Town Hardtop and Town Landau models with a unique appearance gained from a bold new roof line extending forward into the quarter area of the door windows and without the conventional quarter windows.
Windshield washers and vacuum door locks were added to the standard equipment, and power six-way seats and a power antenna were new options. All Thunderbird convertibles, but especially the 1966 convertibles, are collectors’ items. The reasons are obvious: First, they are Thunderbirds, second, they are convertibles.
Ford discontinued the Thunderbird convertible after the 1966 model year. Not counting the two-seaters, 70,234 were produced.
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