Thunderbirds with actual Thunder!!!

While the '60's and '70's Pontiac Gran Prix's have always been considered  great luxury / performance cars, one that's largely overlooked is the Ford Thunderbird. Here's the best ones in my opinion. # 1. 1961-63 models-often called the "Bullet Bird" because of the shape of the rear fenders and taillights. The ultimate in early '60s cool. I can see Elvis or Frank Sinatra driving one. With 390 cubes under the hood, they move pretty good too. And there is a ton of aftermarket equipment available for the "FE" engine. The 1964-66 "Thelma and Louise" model has the 390 V8, but I think their ugly. However, if you like them, there's nothing wrong with them other than the quirky styling.  # 2. 1967-69 models have the cool hidden headlight styling and either 390,428 or 429 cubes under the hood. I personally prefer the 2 dr models, but a lot of people like the 4 dr models with the "Suicide" doors. In addition to the big motors, these models also usually have cool options like factory Air, front disc brakes, power windows, etc.  # 3. 1970-71 models are my personal favorites. They have racy, NASCAR-inspired styling that makes them look badass sitting still. They also have 429 cubes under that long hood, and the early '70's was when american automakers started to care about handling, so these also ride and handle a lot better than earlier models. If the factory's 375 hp isn't enough for you, I see one of these Jet-Black with a Ford Racing 514 stroker stuffed in it. ( The 514 is based on the "385" series-i.e.-429 / 460-so the accessories should all bolt up and the bellhousing bolt-pattern is the same. 1972-76 models have lower compression ratios and more smog gear, so even though their 460 cubes, they are really down on power compared to the earlier models, and to add insult to injury, they are based on the much heavier, and uglier Lincoln MKIV platform. This is a lot cheaper way to get Ford Muscle than fighting with machetes for a same-year Torino or Mustang. Mastermind