Original owner 1987 Ford Thunderbird Sport Coupe for sale on Hemmings.com. From the seller's description:
5.0 L 302 V8 EFI Auto OD with 49,300 original miles VIN # IFABP61F4HH224420If you consider driving to be one of life's pleasures then you will enjoy this ride from the 9th generation of Ford Thunderbirds. It is the “87 Sport Coupe“. I certainly did for 32 years.
I am the original owner and a past 15 year member of the Calgary Thunderbird Club.
This Bird is 90-95 percent original and the 302 V8 has been meticulously maintained and detailed to keep it mechanically sound and clean.
The Sport Coupe came with the Turbo Coupe performance suspension and rides on a set of Goodyear Eagle GT-H P225/60R15 tires. The modified MacPherson front suspension is combined with a quadra shock arrangement in the rear which gives this ride a “car on rails” feel through turns.
Ford produced several different T-Bird models in 1987. They were the V6 Coupe, LX Coupe, V8 Coupe, V8 Sport Coupe and the 4cyl Turbo Coupe which was awarded Motor Trend car of the Year. Total production of all models was 128,135 but it is difficult to say how many of the Sport Coupes were built out of all these models at the Lorain, Ohio assembly plant. The build sheet is under the front passenger seat between the springs and the cushion.
The Dark Shadow Blue exterior is in excellent condition as a result of always being parked in a garage, hand washed and no winter driving. The trunk and the non-smoking interior are also in excellent condition. The interior has fully reclining Shadow Blue cloth bucket seats and a full console shifter. The electronic instrument cluster has a liquid crystal tachometer display and readouts for temp, oil pressure, volts, fuel levels, instant mpg, average mpg, distance to empty and trip distance. Other features include tilt steering wheel, power steering, power brakes, a/c, cruise control, dual powered side sport mirrors, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, AM/ FM stereo cassette, premium sound system, power radio antenna, power windows, power door locks, a two open position power moon roof and remote trunk/fuel cap release in the glove box.
The only modifications are dual Walker mufflers, Ford racing plugs/ wires and a professionally painted front grille to match the body colour.
I changed out the wheels for the Mustang aluminums, which I also had painted by a professional to match the body. The original steel wheels and hub caps are in storage.
I have all of the original sale documents and a complete maintenance record of this car's history. Also included are awards, dash plaques and more from every show and shine attended.
A Thunderbird Sport Coupe in this turn-key original condition is becoming very rare. This car, which is registered as an antique auto, would be very easy for a new owner to maintain and continue to preserve the marque while enjoying a cruise to the car shows and beyond.
1987 Ford Thunderbird
See more Ford Thunderbirds for sale on Hemmings.com.
Recent
Photography by Scotty Lachenauer
Photo by Scotty Lachenauer
Tim, a resident of West Deptford, New Jersey, is well versed in Buick’s Riviera legacy, thanks largely tohis dad, Gene Guarnere, who has had a penchant for the personal luxury car since he was a teen. “My dad has been into first generation Rivieras since he came home from Vietnam in 1967. That’s when he got his first ’64 to drive back and forth from South Philadelphia to Fort Dix, to finish his draft requirement,” Tim says.
Since then, Tim estimates his dad has owned too many Rivieras to count, through a combination of having driven, collected, parted out, and rebuilt many for resale. Though the Riviera nameplate lasted for eight generations of production, and thirty-six years as a standalone model, the 1963-’65 editions will always be Gene’s favorite. “There’s something about those Rivieras. There was really nothing like them on the market at the time,” Gene says.
The Riviera name had a long history with Buick. It first appeared in conjunction with the revolutionary true hardtop design unveiled within the 1949 Roadmaster lineup, the missing B-pillar ushering in “Riviera styling.” That design moniker evolved slightly through the mid-Fifties, provoking thoughts of elegant open road motoring for a modest price, and it even survived Buick’s model name revamp of ’59, when it became a trim level within the Electra 225 series though ’62.
Right about the time the dust was settling from the Buick renaming buzz, GM Advanced Styling guru Ned Nickles had already created a sketch of a new car that–according to later interviews with Nickles and GM Styling boss Bill Mitchell–was based on Mitchell’s foggy visit to London, where he spotted a custom-bodied Rolls-Royce in front of the Savoy hotel. Mitchell is famously quoted as saying, “make it a Ferrari-Rolls-Royce.”
Photo by Scotty Lachenauer
What makes this 1964 Buick Riviera desirable among collectors is the optional dual-quad 425-cu.in. V-8, which boasted 360 hp. It would become the foundation of Gran Sport option a year later.
Coincidentally, Cadillac was considering the introduction of a junior line to bolster sales, helping prompt the development of the XP-715 project (Mitchell is also quoted as saying GM didn’t take kindly to Ford attending the Motorama events to study concept cars, which lead to the four-seat Thunderbird, prompting development of the XP-715). Unofficially, it was dubbed La Salle II, but by the time a full-size clay mockup had been created, Cadillac had reversed its sales slump and was having trouble filling orders. It didn’t need a new car complicating matters.
The XP-715 might have been forgotten had Buick’s general manager Ed Rollert not learned of its unclaimed status. He made a pitch for the project but would have to fight for rights to it with Oldsmobile’s and Pontiac’s management. The latter was lukewarm on the idea of adding another series, while Olds wanted to modify the existing design, something Mitchell was deadset against. By April 1961, the XP-715 / La Salle II concept mockup was photographed wearing Buick emblems.
In the fall of 1962, Buick rolled out the Riviera on a new E-body platform. The car was a departure for Buick, with “knife edge” body lines, minimal trim, a Ferrari-like egg-crate style grille flanked by running lamps/signal indicators behind 1938-’39 inspired La Salle grilles, and kickups over the rear wheels designed to hint at the car’s power (helping conjure the “Coke bottle” design nomenclature). It was an amalgam of styles, fitting in somewhere between a sports car and luxury car, all rolled up in one breathtaking package.
Speaking of power, the Riviera was equipped with Buick’s four-barrel equipped 401-cu.in. V-8 that boasted 325 hp and 445 lb-ft. of torque, though in early December, the division started to offer the 340-hp, four-barrel 425-cu.in. engine as optional Riviera equipment. Just 2,601 examples of the latter were produced. Backing either engine Buick’s Twin Turbine Dynaflow automatic in its final year of production.
Photo by Scotty Lachenauer
Although the cabin is in dire need of detailing, it looks otherwise complete.
A year later, Buick management elevated the 340-hp, single four-barrel 425 engine to standard power team status, paired with a new Super Turbine 400 automatic transmission. Peppy as the engine was, a dual four-barrel version of the 425 became available, known as the “Super Wildcat.” Aside from its eye-opening 360 hp and 465 lb-ft. of torque, it looked the part of a performertoo, due to finned aluminum rocker covers and a twin-snorkel chrome air cleaner assembly. Despite its low production, only 2,122 of the 37,658 Rivieras built for ’64 came equipped as such, this engine became the cornerstone of Riviera’s Gran Sport package for ’65, cementing Buick’s legacy as a luxurious personal muscle car.
Although any first-gen Riviera is a great score to Tim and Gene, some examples are better than others, whether it was due to overall condition or the car’s born-with options. So, when this 1964 Riviera popped up on Gene’s radar 30-plus years ago, he quickly made a deal. “The history between my dad and this car is a long one. He first bought this car in northeast Philadelphia for $1,450 in the early Nineties,” Tim says.
The reason Gene wanted it more than any other that previously crossed his path was that not only was it in reasonably good shape, but the Buick also turned out to be one of the relatively rare dual-quad 425 examples. But like many of the Rivieras that came Gene’s way over the years, the Buick didn’t stick around too long. “The car was sold and/or traded multiple times for the first fifteen years my dad knew about it,” Tim says.
Photo by Scotty Lachenauer
However, like all good things, they somehow find their way home and this car is no exception. “For some reason, the Riviera always ended up with us some way or another. I finally ended up buying the car from the last owner in 2009. He had it stored in my dad’s barn during his ownership, so we knew it was in a safe place for a long time. I now have it tucked away in one of my garages waiting for the next phase in its lifeline.”
What Tim has in possession is an interesting example beyond the power team. “This Riviera is typical of the examples built in ’64. It’s just chock full of options that cater to the upscale buyers that would have had the funds to purchase one of these high-end rides from the dealership.”
Present within are many of the accoutrements that catered to the posh consumers in the luxury sports car market. Options here include the Deluxe vinyl and cloth interior, tilt column, and power seats. Power windows and power vent windows add to the lavishness of the Buick’s aesthetic, while its front seat belts, rear armrests, wood ornamentation, and rear defroster only add to the upscale feel.
Though it's seen better days, the condition of the interior is remarkable, knowing of its lengthy journey since it was taken off the road circa 1980. The upholstery is dirty and moldy but with a good washing it will probably clean up nicely. The dash is also in great shape, though since the V-8 has not been started in years, there’s no way to determine what gauges and switches are functional. Underneath the carpet, the floors are solid as well, owing to its life mostly indoors.
Photo by Scotty Lachenauer
The 1938-'39 La Salle grille is said to have inspired the Riviera's vertically stacked running lamp grilles.
Under the hood it looks as if the engine has barely been touched. It’s “KX” code stamped on the block is still visible, the original Carter carburetors are present, and the wiring and plumbing still appear usable. The air conditioning looks to be intact as well. Finally, power brakes and power steering round out the luxury amenities.
Outside, the body is in excellent shape for a car of this vintage. The last 30-plus years of indoor storage has helped keep the metal intact, though minor body work will be needed on the quarter panels to get it up to snuff. The original Claret Mist paint has turned to a satin finish under all the dirt, but a good cleaning and buff could bring it back to life. Most of the trim is also in great shape, and the car appears to be relatively complete, save for a few pieces of rear window trim.
As for the mechanical functionality beyond instrumentations, no one is really sure of its condition “My first order of business would be to send the engine to “Nailhead” Matt Martin in California, who is an artist that works in the nailhead medium; he’s the ultimate authority in these V-8s. I believe the rest of the car deserves a nut and bolt restoration, too. That time will come soon,” Tim says.
In the classic car market, wagons are rapidly gaining popularity. Like the old saying goes, “They don’t make them like they used to.” Classic wagons exude a style that isn’t seen in today’s automobiles and car enthusiasts are gobbling them up like candy. Here are 15 examples of what is available in the classic wagon market today.
1951 Ford Country Squire Wagon
Everybody loves a classic woodie wagon! This two-door 1951 Ford Country Squire wagon still sports its original wood paneling, not that fake plasticky stuff seen on the more modern “wood” wagons. The seller states it is a fresh build that has only been driven 500 miles. A 350-cid Chevy Vortec Engine is hidden under the hood. Tasteful modifications include a Fatman Fabrications front end, an 8.8-inch rear end, power steering, four-wheel power disc brakes, and an all-new interior.
1979 Chevrolet Caprice Classic Station Wagon
As stated in the auction listing, here’s a family hauler that would draw envious glances from Clark Griswold, this 1979 Chevrolet Caprice Classic Station Wagon is believed to be in original condition apart from maintenance and service requirements, according to the selling dealer, who acquired the woodgrain-trimmed wagon through an estate sale. There’s a 350 V8 under the hood and the seller notes service within the past few thousand miles has included new brakes, a new water pump and radiator, valve cover gasket, muffler, and more. Click here to see the full auction details.
1964 Mercury Colony Park
“Experience the epitome of vintage charm and modern performance with the 1964 Mercury Colony Park, a California wagon that's been meticulously restored and upgraded to perfection. Underneath its classic blue exterior adorned with wood paneling lies a beastly 390-cid V8 engine, now equipped with a Holley Sniper EFI system for improved fuel efficiency and smoother power delivery. Paired with an automatic transmission, this wagon delivers a driving experience that's as effortless as it is exhilarating.”
1959 Chevrolet Brookwood Nomad
This beautiful Brookwood underwent a professional frame-off custom restoration. It’s a restomod of sorts, still sporting its classic looks while implanting some modern creature comforts and technologies. It’s powered by a 480 horsepower LS3 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, for starters. Cruise to the classified to see more photos, plus the full list of custom goodies included in this immaculate 1959 Chevrolet Brookwood Nomad.
1964 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova Station Wagon
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a classic wagon exactly like this one-of-a-kind 1964 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova. Described as a mild restomod, this station wagon has just 1,000 miles accumulated since its frame-off restoration. The seller states that everything has been done on this car and it “rides, drives, and handles way better than you would expect; straight down the road with no shimmies, shakes, or vibrations.” The craftmanship on this V8-powered Chevy wagon is described as “simply spectacular.”
1963 Volvo 122S B22
Volvo wagons are getting hard to come by, especially the 1960s-era cars. The seller states that this two-owner, mostly original 1963 Volvo 122S B22 was used as a daily commuter until a few years ago, has been regularly serviced, and is in good running condition with a recent fuel system overhaul. The original exterior does have some blemishes and surface rust, but the seller assures that “With a fresh paint job, she would really turn heads!”
1953 Willys Station Wagon
“There are refurbishments and restorations, and then there’s the kind of treatment this 1953 Willys Station Wagon has received. The work is described as a minutely detailed body-off restoration that has left the wagon in better-than-factory condition. Among the many non-production upgrades said to have been performed on this Willys are heated leather seats, a lamb’s wool headliner, a Pioneer audio system with Bluetooth capability, map lighting, and USB charging ports. The Willys is reported to have a replacement F-head engine of the same year and displacement, now rebuilt, and the wagon is described by the seller as free of rust.”
1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS Wagon
A muscle car in wagon form is what dreams are made of, especially when talking about the second-generation Chevrolet Chevelle SS. This example, a Placer Gold 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS Wagon, gets its power from a rebuilt 402 cubic-inch V8 producing 350 horsepower paired with a T-10 4-speed manual transmission geared with a 10-bolt rear end, plus other great features.
1967 Buick Sport Wagon GS
The sky roof (or panoramic roof) on this 1967 Buick Sport Wagon GS adds to this classic car’s luxurious feel. The seller states it is powered by a 350 cubic-inch small-block topped with four-barrel carbs and a Star Wars-style air cleaner. The wagon is described as rust free and ready to drive.
1956 Ford Parklane Two-Door Wagon
According to the seller of this custom 1956 Ford Parklane Two-Door Wagon, it is so clean that you can “eat off the door jams and spare tire well.” The mild custom sports a 312 cubic-inch V8 paired with an automatic transmission, plus loads of other goodies, including a custom interior. Take a close look at the photos supplied in the Hemmings Marketplace classified listing.
1959 Rambler American Deliveryman
This extremely rare wagon is just one of only three examples produced, and the seller confirms that they do have the production records as proof. Previously owned and restored by the founder of the AMC club of America, the 1959 Rambler American Deliveryman Panel underwent what is described as an exceptional nut and bolt rotisserie restoration just a few years ago. It’s powered by an inline-six engine backed by a three-speed manual transmission, and the engine bay, among other details, is described as stunning.
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
The classic Chevrolet Bel Air embodies the American Dream of the late-50s, and its V8 engine signifies the era of American muscle. This elegant wagon is offered with an automatic transmission for easy cruising. The seller also states that the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with air conditioning, its classic AM radio, power brakes, and power steering.
1950 Oldsmobile Wagon
If you’re searching for a wagon that will stop passersby in their tracks, look no further than this flame-adorned 1950 Oldsmobile. Under the hood you’ll find a powerful 5.7L Vortec 350 cubic-inch V8 paired with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. The seller states, “this Oldsmobile Wagon is not just about looks and performance, it’s also equipped with a range of features designed to enhance your driving experience.” Get the full details here.
1959 Plymouth Suburban Station Wagon
This unrestored 1959 Plymouth wagon shows 78,800 original miles on the odometer. The 318 polyhead Mopar engine is topped with a Holly two-barrel carburetor and exhales through a dual exhaust system. Don’t let the main photo of this beautiful machine on a trailer fool you: The seller states that the car is in survivor condition and it drives without issues. Check it out.
1958 Edsel Roundup Two-Door Wagon
This two-door, six-passenger, V8-powered 1958 Edsel Roundup wagon is described by the seller as a no expense spared custom. The customizations were completed by its owner, Frank Montelone, alongside his long-time friend, the legendary George Barris of Barris Kustoms, which makes this custom wagon an incredibly rare find.
There are more wild wagons where these came from. As of this writing, there are around 50 classic wagon listings on Hemmings Marketplace. Take a look!
Trending
╳