The 1958-1960 Ford Thunderbird might not be everyone’s cup of tea when it comes to styling, but its impact on the automotive industry is undeniable. While its design, heavily influenced by the futuristic aesthetics of the late ’50s, might appear gimmicky to some, it played a pivotal role in establishing the American personal coupe segment. This article delves into the design language of the 1959 Ford Thunderbird, comparing it with its contemporaries and highlighting its significance in automotive history.
1959 Ford Thunderbird
Distinctive Design: Setting the Thunderbird Apart
Unlike many premium cars of its era, the 1959 Thunderbird wasn’t merely a dressed-up version of a family sedan. It boasted a unique body, strikingly low and slightly more compact than the standard Ford Galaxie. This deliberate design choice gave the Thunderbird a sportier, more athletic stance compared to the boxier Galaxie.
The Thunderbird’s Low-Slung Silhouette: A Nod to European Sports Cars
The Thunderbird’s low profile wasn’t confined to its overall height. The design cleverly emphasized this feature throughout, most notably in the rear. The sloping trunk lid, culminating in a sculpted bumper, contributed to a more exotic, European-inspired aesthetic. This design choice, while potentially compromising trunk space, prioritized visual appeal.
1959 Ford Thunderbird
The influence of European sports cars is further evident in the Thunderbird’s proportions. The long hood, short deck design, a hallmark of sports cars of the time, is evident in the Thunderbird’s greenhouse. The smaller rear-quarter windows and thick C-pillar contribute to this sporty profile.
Interior Design: A Blend of Luxury and Sportiness
The Thunderbird’s interior mirrored its exterior’s unique design language. The snug greenhouse, while sacrificing some interior space, created an intimate and sporty ambiance. The inclusion of bucket seats and a center console, features uncommon for the time, further enhanced the Thunderbird’s premium appeal.
1959 Ford Thunderbird
According to renowned automotive historian Richard M. Langworth, the Thunderbird’s center console was more than just a stylistic choice. The car’s low stance necessitated a larger driveline tunnel, and the console cleverly disguised this otherwise intrusive feature.
Exterior Flourishes: Embracing the Exuberance of the Era
The Thunderbird’s exterior design was a testament to the design trends of the late 1950s. The dog-leg windshield, while potentially hindering ingress and egress, was a stylistic element popular in that era. Similarly, the sculpted side styling and unique door handles integrated into a body crease that flowed into the tailfin were characteristic of the period’s design language.
1959 Ford Thunderbird
These design elements, though deeply rooted in the aesthetics of the time, contributed to the Thunderbird’s unique identity and set it apart from its contemporaries.
Commercial Success and Industry Impact
The 1959 Thunderbird wasn’t just a design success, it was a commercial triumph as well. Selling over 67,000 units, it outsold the Buick Electra line and dwarfed sales of senior Chrysler and Mercury models. This success solidified the Thunderbird’s position in the market and proved the viability of the personal luxury car segment.
The Thunderbird’s success challenged the prevailing wisdom in Detroit. It demonstrated that a car could be luxurious, stylish, and commercially successful without adhering to the traditional formula of simply enlarging a family car. This realization opened the floodgates for other manufacturers to introduce their own interpretations of the personal coupe, resulting in a diverse and exciting new segment in the automotive industry.
Conclusion
The 1959 Ford Thunderbird, with its unique blend of sporty styling, luxurious appointments, and innovative design, marked a turning point in automotive history. While some of its design elements might seem dated today, its impact on the industry is undeniable. The Thunderbird’s success paved the way for the personal luxury car segment, forever changing the landscape of the automotive world. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, even the most unconventional designs can spark a revolution.
FAQs
Q: What made the 1959 Ford Thunderbird unique compared to other cars in its class?
A: The 1959 Thunderbird stood out with its distinctive low-slung body, unique interior features like bucket seats and a center console, and a design language heavily influenced by European sports cars.
Q: How did the Thunderbird’s success impact the automotive industry?
A: The Thunderbird’s popularity proved the market viability of the personal luxury car, leading to the emergence of a whole new segment in the industry.
Q: What are some of the design elements that make the 1959 Thunderbird a product of its time?
A: The dog-leg windshield, sculpted side styling, and prominent tailfins are all design cues characteristic of the late 1950s.
Q: Where can I find more information about the 1959 Ford Thunderbird?
A: You can find more information on websites dedicated to classic cars, automotive history books, and online forums for vintage car enthusiasts.
