Photos: Ford Thunderbird Italien Concept
You know, I’m not the biggest car guy. In fact, I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t know all that much about cars. But what I do know is whether I like a car or not…and I really like this one. I couldn’t resist posting these pics.
Here’s a little bit about the ride itself:
“Most early Ford show cars were sent to be destroyed after serving their duty, but this special car, a one-off Thunderbird called the “Italien” managed to escape the crusher. The story goes that this special Thunderbird was displayed at the 1964 New York World’s Fair (the one and only time it was shown), and was destined to be destroyed after the show. Instead, it was sold to actor Dale Robertson, and later in 1986 sold to Ford collector Don Chambers. Chambers owned the car for twenty years, and then sold it to Thunderbird restorer Tom Maruska, who brought the car back to its original condition as seen here. Design features of the “Italien” include a fastback roof line and a unique leather interior.”
This bad boy sold for a cool $600,000 at the 2008 Barrett-Jackson Auction.
-[from Autoblog]-
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It is a joy to see the car that my parents owned during the late 60’s and early 70’s restored to its original condition. You can see it at the Blackhawk Car Museum in California. It was a thrill to drive. Although I am sorry I can’t take you for a spin in it anymore, I am most happy it now has a home where many can appreciate its unique excellence. Many thanks to Tom Maruska for realizing my father’s dream promised to him years earlier by another. cactus_will@yahoo.com
Comment by William C. Warner — April 24, 2008 @ 2:50 pm