The Thunderbird (T-Bird) was a car from the Ford Motor Company designed to compete with the General Motors Chevrolet Corvette, ranging from 1955 to the present day. When first introduced in the market, it created a new market segment known as "Personal Luxury Car“.

The 1960 T-Bird belongs to the second generation of this model. The MEL engine was designed to power the Mercury, Edsel and Lincoln brands and to be used in large passenger cars. The MEL V8 engine was first fitted to this model.

Although the Thunderbird was still increasing in success, Ford executives, especially the  Ford president Robert McNamara, felt that the new models of 1960 should have 4 seats, instead of the two that had traditionally been fitted since the beginning in 1950.

In 1960 the T-Bird broke sales records; 92,843 vehicles of which 11,860 were convertibles. The convertibles were sold with a an ingenious rigid hood for the rear seats and visually resembled a two-seater. The back of the car is spectacular, imitating six rocket boosters.

The Thunderbird name evokes glamour and distinction; in a single vehicle you have sporty driving, comfort and luxury. Robert McNamara was the United States Defense Secretary during the presidencies of Lyndon B. Johnson and John Kennedy.

The special V-8 430 cu. in. engine supplies 350 hp, making it a true racing car for its speed, yet comfortable as a limousine.