Are you looking for what is likely the best 1963 T-Bird in existence? This is a multiple award-winning and rust free Arizona car that has undergone a no-expense spared rotisserie restoration by renowned Thunderbird restorer Bud Gilroy from Temecula, Ca. This T-Bird was restored for his close friend, Don Kratzer of Fallbrook, CA. He loved this car and fully optioned it with all the dealer installed Sports Roadster items.

Bud and Don bought the car from the Thunderbird Connection on November 12, 1991 for $13,300. This is a ton of money for a car that you are about to restore! The car was then completely disassembled for restoration.

He restored every single part of the car, down to the minutest detail. The car spent over one year on a rotisserie. The bodywork was completed by a craftsman in Temecula that used absolutely no body filler. He used nothing but his hammers, blocks, sweat and heat. Again, Bud Gilroy is a highly regarded and experienced restorers of Thunderbirds. This example lives up to his reputation in every respect.

It is painted in the ultimate color of Rangoon Red with red interior and a black canvas convertible top. Every aspect of the restoration is excellent and remains in stunning condition. It has all of the Sports Roadster options but it is not a Sports Roadster.

The T-Bird was completed in time for the 1994 Pageant of the Thunderbirds Show where it was awarded Best of Show!! This is considered one of the most competitive T-Bird shows in the world. It then proceeded to win award after award for being the finest example in existence. After a full decade of competitive showing, it was used for local and regional touring, having now accumulated about 4,800 miles.

The car is fully optioned with air conditioning, heater, dealer supplied roadster-type tonneau cover, wire wheels, power steering, power brakes, power window, power seats, power convertible top, correct and original wire wheels, an original “Thunderbird” AM radio, 390 cu in V-8 powered (single carb) and new custom ordered Diamond Back radials. Of course this T-Bird has the sliding steering wheel which brings pleasure to anyone seeing it slide! The VIN is 3Y85Z138165.

It has very little patina and would only be improved by continued detailing, use and maintenance. The car has not been shown for many years and would be a top scorer at any concours event.

An opportunity to acquire a fabulous rotisserie restored car, done by a famous T-Bird restorer is rare to come by. This car, having a known history and being from Arizona in a dynamite color combination is that much more rare!! This is a tremendous opportunity to acquire a fabulous car for your collection.

We are selling this on behalf of the Mr. Kratzer’s widow. It is located in Fallbrook, CA. For more details call Harry at +1.602.245.7200 or email me at harry@classicpromenade.com.