In the April 1963 issue of Motor Trend, Jim Wright clocked an XL convertible with a 300-horsepower 390 and Cruise-O-Matic at 9.8 seconds to 60 mph with a top speed of 107. Available in all models except wagons, it was strictly a racing engine. The newest original 390 rolled off the assembly line in the 1970s, meaning youre likely to find a few parts that could use some modernization.

At the opposite end of the spectrum from the two 427s was a 260-cubic-inch replacement for the 292. The proto-psychedelic light show draws quite a bit of electrical current, as confirmed by the pulsations of the ammeter needle.1964 Ford Thunderbird 76722 Miles Rangoon Red Convertible 390 Cubic Inch V8 Aut. This display of directional incandescence is joined by rear-facing 'gun sight' indicators on the front fenders, parking lights tucked away on the front bumper, and, of course, indicators on the dash. When you indicate a turn, six bulbs per side blink in succession from innermost to outermost. The 1965 version is the first T-bird with front disc brakes, and we really love the '65's sequential rear taillights. Wilson is the third owner of this car, which his brother Ron found not far from the Ford dealership in Auburn, California, where it was first sold a half century ago.

Wilson's '65 Thunderbird convertible, a nicely preserved car in Rose Beige. Our quest for the ultimate parade car led us to Palm Springs, California, where we found A.J.

64 ford thunderbird convertible