All-original 1963 Thunderbird Sports Roadster with just 38K miles—one of 455 built—offered publicly for the first time since 1980
An exceptionally rare and untouched 1963 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster, one of just 455 factory-built examples, is now available for sale for the first time in over four decades. With only 38,000 original miles, this stunning survivor retains its 100% original paint, top, interior, and drivetrain, making it a time capsule-level find for collectors and Thunderbird enthusiasts.
The current owner, who acquired the vehicle from a Chicago physician in 1980 after a four-year search, has driven it a mere 6,500 miles in 44 years, keeping it in climate-controlled storage and maintaining it in pristine, unrestored condition. Remarkably, the Thunderbird looks and drives like new, exhibiting mirror-like chrome, flawless glass, and rust-free factory sheet metal.
Key factory features include:
- Power convertible top (fully functional)
- Power steering, brakes, and windows
- AM radio with excellent sound quality
- Tilt-Away steering wheel
- Original Kelsey Hayes wire wheels (including spare)
- Whitewall radial tires
- Dash-mounted owner nameplate (Arnold Goldberg)
The black interior, including the original seats, dash, door panels, and carpeting, remains supple and well-preserved with no signs of wear or fading. The original white convertible top operates smoothly, and the trunk retains its original mat, jack, and wire wheel spare—further supporting the car’s authenticity.
Mechanically, the Thunderbird performs flawlessly, with its original V8 engine starting easily, running quietly, and shifting smoothly through its original automatic transmission. Even the under-hood insulation remains intact.
This is not just a rare car—it’s a benchmark survivor, presenting like a restored vehicle despite being completely unrestored. The chance to acquire an all-original Sports Roadster in this condition comes once in a lifetime.
