1961 Ford Thunderbird

The 1961 Ford Thunderbird is a significant model year known for its introduction of the 390 cubic inch V8 engine, which produces 300 horsepower at 4,600 RPM. This marks the debut of the 390 engine in the Thunderbird lineup. The vehicle is equipped with a 3-Speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission. In terms of dimensions, it features a 113-inch wheelbase, a length of 205 inches, and a width of 75.9 inches, available in both hardtop and convertible styles, with the convertible weighing approximately 4,125 pounds. This model is part of the “Bullet Bird” series, celebrated for its sleek aesthetics, though it notably excludes the Sports Roadster variant, which would appear in the following year’s lineup. A total of over 73,000 Thunderbirds were produced in 1961, with 62,535 hardtops and 10,516 convertibles, reflecting its appeal in the market.