Lot #

1827

Location

St. Louis, MO 63114

Seller

Dealer

482

430ci V8

Automatic

Torch Red

Black Vinyl

J9YH157551

This is a Buy it Now listing. You are no longer placing live bids, instead you make an offer to purchase based on the asking price shown. Offers are handled on a first come, first serve basis. If your offer is accepted there is still a 5% buyer's fee due before we connect you with the seller.

Asking Price: $69,900 Questions

1959 Ford Thunderbird Convertible – Rare J-Code 430 V8

Highlights

Gorgeous Thunderbird Convertible fitted with J-code 430ci V8 powerplant!
Loaded with options to air conditioning, chrome Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels, roadster tonneau cover, and more!
Outstanding restoration completed in 2012 that totaled over 5,000 man hours!
More recently professionally upgraded with FiTech fuel injection and RideTech air ride suspension system!
Must see to appreciate the level of detail throughout!

This incredibly rare 1959 Ford Thunderbird is factory-equipped with the sought-after J-code 430ci V8 engine, producing 350 horsepower, paired to a smooth Cruise-O-Matic transmission. Nicknamed the “Square Bird,” the 1958–1960 Thunderbirds marked a major evolution, introducing the larger 4-seat design and hardtop styling.

This exceptional Thunderbird comes from a private collection and showcases a show-quality, nut-and-bolt rotisserie restoration. Finished in stunning Torch Red over a black interior with silver piping, every inch of this car has been meticulously restored, polished, and detailed to perfection. It’s just as clean underneath as it is on top and has only been driven 482 miles since its 2012 completion — never seeing inclement weather.

It’s loaded with desirable features, including:

Select-Aire air conditioning
Power steering and brakes
Power driver’s seat
Power convertible top
Tinted glass
Chrome 14″ Kelsey Hayes wire wheels with Coker Classic 3″ whitewall tires
Continental kit
Fender skirts
Rear tonneau cover
Factory hardtop with sunroof
AM/FM/Cassette stereo in stock location
Spotlight rearview mirrors
Auxiliary windshield washer

Every component was either restored, rebuilt, or replaced. Attention to detail is evident everywhere: hand-rubbed show-quality paint, chromed hood latches and door catches, polished brightwork, triple-plated chrome bumpers, fully polished stainless exhaust, and a Hartz Stayfast canvas top.

Originally a J-code hardtop, the restorer invested more than 5,000 labor hours converting it to a superior factory-style convertible, with craftsmanship that exceeds original factory standards.

All systems are functional, from the ice-cold air conditioning to the courtesy lights, dash clock, power top, and even the dash 12-volt outlet.

For a modern touch, the car now features a FiTech Go-EFI electronic fuel injection system and a RideTech air ride suspension with height sensors at all four corners. These upgrades were installed by Classic Car Studio and featured on Season 2, Episode 4 of Speed is the New Black in 2018.

This is a rare opportunity to own an extraordinary Thunderbird that seamlessly blends timeless style with modern performance!

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