In recent years, we’ve seen the values of certain classic vehicles skyrocket to new heights, though some have proven more popular than others. This includes the Ford Bronco, which has increased in value exponentially across all generations, even the previously less-popular ones. As for which under-appreciated models might be the next to join this list, it seems as if the 1964-1966 Ford Thunderbird could be the next vintage Blue Oval to gain in popularity – and value – according to Hagerty’s newly released 2024 Bull Market List.
Each year, the Bull Market List aims to identify the classic vehicles that are likely to appreciate the most in the coming year, a daunting task this time around given how the collector car market, as a whole, has softened over the past year, with prices falling and interest rates climbing. Regardless, following its analysis of sales figures, historical pricing data, and demographics, Hagerty believes that the 1964-1966 Ford Thunderbird is among the top 10 classic vehicles poised for a breakout in 2024.
While early T-Birds are already sought-after and valuable collector’s items, these later models are a bit under-appreciated at the moment, yet have plenty to offer, including a comfy ride, attractive styling, and reasonably solid performance. “Thunderbirds from this era have long lived in the shadow of two contemporary icons from Ford Motor Company – the Mustang and the Lincoln Continental,” Hagerty said of its pick. “But as those cars have climbed out of reach, younger collectors have rediscovered the charm of midcentury luxury.”
“Trends say younger classic buyers (born sometime after Neil Armstrong landed on the moon) are interested in Flair Birds,” added Hagerty’s Todd Kraemer. “They do have a hipper, more mod vibe than the earlier Thunderbirds. This generation wants something different from Dad’s old ’55 T-Bird. Fond memories of watching Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis soaring one off a Grand Canyon cliff in the climactic final scene of Thelma & Louise can’t hurt. Or maybe it’s just that everyone dreams of being an early astronaut for a moment. This mid-’60s Thunderbird just might be the closest you’ll ever get, Major Tom.”
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Comments
I hope so. As a “younger classic buyer” (“younger” and “classic” as simultaneous adjectives rarely come together), I learned engines on a 390 in a rusted out ’64 Bird. I’ve always thought the T-Bird convertibles from the 60s were grossly underrated. Maybe they will finally get their day!
I’ve had a 65 TB convertible and now own a 65 coup or hardtop.. I do have other collector cars but as a good driver you can’t beat them they are built like a car shoud be too…
Here’s hoping my well optioned ’66 Town Landau with the 428 cu.in. appreciates in both value and ‘drivability’ as its currently my retirement project.