Lastly, a concern for older cars is to get one that will fit in your garage (measure them, some are huge!) I was not necessarily brand loyal, but it had to be something that I found attractive and something I would want to drive. It had to be something I could inspect myself before purchase, so that eliminated cars across the country. (Since your price is higher, you will have more choices).
I decided I wanted a convertible that was as original as possible, in as good shape as possible, and didn't want to spend more than $8,000 tops. I kind of went through the same thought process you are currently considering, the only difference is I started with late 50's Chrysler's (Fury, then a New Yorker) before laying a few ground rules for me to follow: Plus, a Caddy convertible worth having is out of my budget.Īgain, keep the 64-66 T-Bird comments coming (by the way, I agree the front grill of the '66 is pretty ugly), but I guess I'm now open to hearing about other 60's convertibles. I love the look of the 61-62 Cadillac convertibles, but don't want to have to call in a "tug boat" every time I want to park the thing - or my loan officer in order to keep the gas tank full. I know dealers charge a premium and a better deal can be gotten from a private seller.Ĭonsequently, you all now have my permission (ha!) to break rank and give me your opinions in terms of 60's convertibles worth considering. This is a Supreme with A/C and IS NOT a 442 or an SX - and still, they're asking $24,500! I've got a good base of knowledge with regard to the values of mid 60's T-Birds and Mustangs and $24,500 seems awfully high for a '72 Cutlass Supreme - albeit an extremely nice one. Speaking of price, I found a very clean, detailed 72 Cutlass convertible for sale via the internet at a classic car dealer in Las Vegas (). Plus, you can use the trunk when the top is down (unlike the T-Bird - bummer!). Finally, it's back seat area is larger than in a Mustang. Plus, a 350 engine and Turbo 400 auto is a pretty good combo. It doesn't have nearly as much style as a 64-65 T-Bird, but it's more modern suspension probably results in a better driving car. Ya know, after reading the posts in the "looking for reliable 50-60's family classic" discussion forum, I'm starting to think a 1970-72 Cutlass convertible might be a better choice for what I want. I know the Mustang's back seat is really tight. My wife and I have a 10 and 13 year old so back seat room is an issue. a Mustang) is that I think the Thunderbird has a larger interior - particularly in the back seat. Though, I didn't want to drive it over 50 mph (didn't feel comfortable to do so). Despite these negatives, it drove fairly decently. It wasn't in particularly good condition and didn't have power steering or power brakes. I drove a '65 Mustang convertible the other day that is for sale in my area (Central Indiana). Hopefully, this would buy me a T-Bird that can go down the road pretty well and be able to stay in my garage more than my local mechanic's. The '64 T-Bird convertibles I've found that look like what I want (already restored and in "turnkey" condition) have "asking" prices in the $20,000 to $25,000 range and all available from private sellers. Consequently, I very much appreciate comments from those with actual driving experience. Thus, I don't have a frame of reference in terms of how well they drive. I appreciate them all.Īdmittedly, I have zero experience driving a Flairbird - or, any T-Bird for that matter.
I'd heard they weren't the greatest.Īgain, keep the 64-66 T-Bird comments (good and bad) coming. Thanks ISELLHONDAS for the "heads up" with regard to the confort level on the T-Bird's seats. Not trying to be a "stick in the mud" - just trying to keep the conversation flowing in the intended direction.
You'll spend less money (than for a restored 60's classic) and have an exponentially better car to go romping on a twisty back road.Īnyway, this is a 1964-1966 Thunderbird discussion so let's not wander too far off of the subject. In my opinion, if you want to go fast, go buy a new Firebird/Camaro (while you still can) or late model Corvette. Neck snapping acceleration and slot-car handling are not priorities on a nice autumn day while cruising in 1960's convertible - that's not the point. My second choice is a '66 Mustang GT convertible, but nice one's are pretty pricey (though nice T-Birds aren't cheap!). In terms of performance, I'm looking for a nice cruising car (hence my need for a convertible). I know the 64's drum brakes are less than steller, but I believe they can be replaced with disc units - at the very least from a '65, but better units are probably available. I really like the look of the "Flairbirds" particularly the '64. The Riviera is certainly a nice car, but I want a convertible - so that eliminates the Rivi from consideration. I started this string and have appreciated the comments thus far.
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