(1964-1966): “Jet Birds”

If the third-generation “Bullet Birds” brought style to the four-seat Thunderbird, the fourth generation was an expansion on that start — more an evolution of style than a whole new invention.

Where the Bullet Birds were rounded, the next-generation “Jet Birds” (or “Sculpted Birds”) were squared off and sharp. The proportions, however, were similar in silhouette with both a long hood and a long trunk over a relatively short 113.2-inch wheelbase. Dual headlights, a low-placed sweeping grille and upright windshield all were similar to the Bullet Bird, but the deeply sculptured sides were new as were the large rear taillights. In fact those taillights would become the new Thunderbird’s signature innovation — but not during ‘64.

Both coupe and convertible models continued with the 1964 Thunderbird and the separate Landau model also carried forward. However, the Sports Roadster was gone. Two versions of Ford’s 390-cubic-inch V8 were available both topped by Holley four-barrel carburetors. The base 390 used one Holley and a 10.0-to-1 compression ratio to make 300 hp while the optional high-performance version ran 10.5-to-1 compression and two Holleys and was rated at 330 hp. Both were backed by a three-speed automatic transmission.

“One additional item that should accompany milady when she drives her Thunderbird downtown for a shopping spree is an auto club membership,” wrote Motor Trend. “Should a tire go flat, few women would be able to wrestle the heavy spare wheel and tire out of its high resting place or over the trunk’s high lip…Ford’s Thunderbird fills its intended purpose. It’s a real prestige four-seater. Granted it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but for bird lovers, it’s the ‘only way to fly.’ Flight plans, anyone?”

Sales were strong once again with Ford building 92,465 Thunderbirds during this model year.