Lot #334 - Motortrend's "Car of the Year" in 1958. This stunning 1958 Ford Thunderbird is one of 2,134 built in 1958, and has been restored to Colonial White with red and white interior. This car features a 352/300hp V8 engine with Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission. This car comes loaded with options, including Swift Sure power brakes, Master Guide power windows, power driver's seat, white power top, factory Magic-Aire heater and air conditioning, front seat belts, sports spare wheel carrier, visored spotlight rear view mirror, 6-tube push-button radio with antenna, exterior chrome dress-up package including chrome headlight bezels, chrome taillight bezels, chrome wiper arm bezels and chrome hood scoop, rear fender shields, and also has the chrome engine dress-up kit option. This car also comes with the spare tire and jack, and sports spare wheel carrier (Continental Kit). In 1996, this car was shown at the Antique Automobile Club of America Dearborn, Michigan spring meet and took first place in its category. Also took 2nd place at the International Thunderbird Convention, Dearborne Michigan in 1995. Trophy, plaque, and photos included. For the first time in 1958, the Ford Thunderbird was offered in two distinct body styles: a hardtop and a convertible. Due to initial body build-up problems, the convertible in 1958 was delayed, which makes this model the rarest for the three years of "squarebird" production. These three years of production were Ford's first use of unibody construction. Assembled at the new Wixom, Michigan facility where new Lincolns and Continentals were also produced, the 1958 Ford Thunderbird were the most expensive cars up until that time to carry the Ford name. The Wixom plant took pride in its product focusing on quality rather than quantity. The fit and finish was superior to that of other cars at the time of production.