Description
Ford Thunderbird | 1959
Highlights:
- Restored example with overhauled engine and gearbox
- Equipped with electric fuel pump and revised exhaust system
- Original coupe with automatic transmission
- 5.8L V8 engine
- Belgian registration and ready to drive
The seller offers for sale this 1959 Ford Thunderbird Coupe, featuring a 5.8-litre V8 engine paired with an automatic gearbox. This vehicle has undergone a restoration including a respray, mechanical revision of the engine and gearbox, installation of new seals, shock absorbers and exhaust. A modern electric fuel pump has also been fitted to improve fuel delivery. The car comes with a workshop manual.
The mechanical and visual condition suggests a cared-for example. The car has been regularly driven and, according to the seller, is capable of daily use. The exterior is in very neat condition, with the body resprayed several years ago it still presents well. Lighting and safety systems function as intended.
Inside, the condition is described as good. The leather seating surfaces are presentable but may require interior padding replacement in future. The carpets are serviceable, instruments work properly, and the dashboard is clean. A period-style radio/cassette unit is installed but is currently non-functional.
The car’s technical condition is strong, with no signs of smoke or noises from the engine. The transmission shifts smoothly and has no audible issues. It retains its classic drivetrain layout without modern upgrades such as disc brakes or power steering. It holds a valid roadworthiness certificate and is described as mechanically solid with only minor maintenance needs expected.
The 1959 Thunderbird was part of the second generation of Ford’s luxury coupe line. Departing from the smaller proportions of the original 1955–1957 “baby birds,” the ’59 model embraced a larger, more refined profile to appeal to the growing American appetite for personal luxury cars. With its trademark bullet-like rear quarters, squared-off roofline, and low-slung body, the second-gen Thunderbird became a design icon of its era.
Under the hood, the 1959 models offered V8 power exclusively. The 5.8-litre (352 cubic inch) engine in this example was a popular choice, delivering smooth cruising power and a distinct V8 burble. The automatic transmission made the car accessible and comfortable for long-distance touring, and many Thunderbirds of this era were heavily optioned, adding to their upscale feel.
The Thunderbird nameplate represented a blend of sporty character and personal luxury—something rare at the time—and the model’s evolution into a larger coupe laid the groundwork for an entirely new segment in the American market. While some purists lamented the move away from the smaller, sporty roots, the sales figures proved Ford had made a smart move. These “Square Birds,” as the 1958–1960 models are nicknamed, remain desirable among collectors for their unique styling, robust mechanicals, and the transitional story they tell in Ford’s history.
This particular Thunderbird, with its fresh mechanicals, resprayed bodywork, and usability upgrades like the electric fuel pump, presents an opportunity to enjoy one of Ford’s most iconic coupes without taking on a major restoration. Its roadworthy status and presentable overall condition make it a strong candidate for regular use or further light cosmetic enhancement.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Flemish Brabant province, Belgium.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Belgian registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
