When the 1958 Thunderbird debuted, it proved Ford’s calculation correct: that the market was much more interested in a similar vehicle with four seats. Truth be told, the 1955-57 Thunderbird wasn’t really a sports car to begin with despite being a two-seater — it was more of a boulevardier than anything else, so the transition to four seats didn’t seem so far-fetched. Ford’s gamble paid off.
One of those all-new four-seaters, this custom 1958 Ford Thunderbird hardtop, is currently featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com. Not surprisingly, the 352-powered “Kopper Kaballero” was featured in Custom Rodder in 2004. Features include automatic transmission, power steering and brakes, power accessories, center console, and more. Finished in metallic bronze and gold, with ivory and Emberglow vinyl interior, this T-bird comes from the selling dealer with a clear title.
The exterior was refinished in multi-hued bronze and gold by Marcos Garcia of Lucky 7 Customs in Antioch, California. Features include mesh grille with an assortment of Dagmar inserts, shaved door handles, and accent pinstriping.
A set of chrome wheels with custom tri-bar wheel covers is wrapped in BFGoodrich Silvertown whitewall radials.
The interior is upholstered in ivory and Emberglow vinyl. Features include center console, power windows and locks, custom-painted copper dashboard with accent pinstriping, and column-mounted automatic shifter.
The instrument panel includes a 140-mph speedometer, clock, and gauges for the fuel level and coolant temperature. The odometer reads 84,556 miles, but the true mileage on this vehicle is unknown.
Power is provided by a 300-horsepower Thunderbird 352ci Special V8 backed by a three-speed automatic transmission. Engine bay features include chrome valve covers, air cleaner, and coil cover.
This Thunderbird was factory-equipped with independent front suspension and solid rear-drive axle. Braking is provided by power drums. A dual exhaust system is hooked up to the 351 and exits at the rear.
The auction for this custom 1958 Ford Thunderbird hardtop ends on Friday, June 2, 2023, at 12:15 p.m. (PDT)
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery
