How much is a 1959 Thunderbird worth today?
Today, a 1959 Ford Thunderbird typically sells for roughly $25,000 to $120,000 depending on condition, originality, and provenance. Most drivers fall in the mid-range, while pristine, numbers-matching examples can approach or exceed six figures.
This article outlines the main factors that determine value, typical price ranges by condition, and practical buying considerations to help buyers and sellers navigate the current market for the 1959 Thunderbird.
What affects a 1959 Thunderbird’s value
The value of a 1959 Thunderbird is shaped by a mix of mechanical, cosmetic, and historical factors. Below are the factors collectors and dealers weigh most when assessing a car’s price.
- Condition and drivability: whether the car runs, shifts smoothly, and stops reliably, and whether it is a reliable daily driver or a showpiece.
- Originality and matching numbers: how much of the car remains original (engine, transmission, drivetrain) and whether numbers match factory records.
- Provenance and documentation: complete service history, historical ownership records, and any concours awards or documented restorations.
- Rarity and options: rare color combinations, factory options (such as drivetrain, top configurations, and period-correct accessories) can add value.
- Body and cosmetic condition: rust-free chassis, straight panels, quality chrome and trim, and the state of paint and interior.
- Restoration quality: whether restorations were done to high standards, with period-correct parts and craftsmanship.
- Market trends: broader collector interest, auction results, and regional demand can push values up or down.
In summary, a mix of mechanical reliability, originality, documentation, and presentation largely determines where a 1959 Thunderbird sits in today’s market.
Typical price ranges by condition
Prices vary by region, auction channel, and the specifics of each car. The ranges below reflect common market observations among dealerships, private sales, and auction results as of 2024–2025.
- Project or non-running or rough condition: about $10,000 to $25,000
- Driver-quality (running, but with cosmetic imperfections): about $25,000 to $40,000
- Excellent or nicely restored (drives well, good cosmetics): about $40,000 to $70,000
- Show-quality or concours-ready (highly detailed, correct period parts, well-documented): about $70,000 to $110,000
- Exceptional, matching-numbers, rare options, strong provenance: about $110,000 to $150,000+
Auction results can push individual cars beyond these ranges, especially for uniquely documented examples. Private-sale prices may cluster at the lower end of the spectrum if the car is not prepared for show or lacks complete documentation.
What to check when buying a 1959 Thunderbird
Before purchasing a 1959 Thunderbird, use a careful checklist to verify condition, originality, and authenticity, and consider a professional inspection.
- Verify VIN and engine numbers align with factory records and window stickers, and confirm optional equipment matches the build sheet.
- Inspect the chassis, frame, and floorpans for rust, previous repairs, or poor bodywork.
- Evaluate the paint, chrome, and interior for signs of repainting or non-period parts; look for authenticity in trim and emblems.
- Test drive to assess transmission, brakes, steering, suspension, and overall drivability; listen for unusual noises.
- Check top mechanism and weather seals if the car has a removable hardtop or convertible features; ensure operation is smooth.
- Review maintenance records and restoration receipts; verify the car’s provenance and any concours honors.
- Have a qualified classic-car technician or appraiser inspect the car before making an offer.
Being thorough in these checks helps buyers avoid overpaying for incomplete projects or cars with hidden issues, and helps sellers present a transparent, well-documented vehicle.
Summary
The 1959 Thunderbird remains a desirable classic, with value driven by condition, originality, and provenance. Prospective buyers should weigh mechanical reliability, documentation, and authenticity alongside cosmetic presentation. For the most accurate current pricing, consult reputable guides (such as Hagerty, NADA), and review recent auction results from Mecum and other major auction houses to gauge where a specific car might land in today’s market.
How much is a Thunderbird car worth?
Recent used model years of the Ford Thunderbird are currently priced at an average of $14,956, according to our used car price index.
How many 1959 Thunderbirds were made?
67,456
Production totals
| Year | Production |
|---|---|
| 1958 | 37,892 |
| 1959 | 67,456 |
| 1960 | 92,843 |
| Total | 198,191 |
How much is a 1958 Thunderbird worth today?
The value of a 1958 Ford Thunderbird varies significantly, with typical prices for a good condition car around $14,200$ 14 comma 200$14,200, though this can range from as low as $8,200$ 8 comma 200$8,200 for a project car to over $62,700$ 62 comma 700$62,700 for a rare, high-end example at auction. Factors like overall condition, mileage, original options, and historical provenance play a major role in determining the final price.
Price ranges and factors
- Average/Good condition: Expect to pay around $14,200$ 14 comma 200$14,200 for a car in good condition with average specifications, according to Hagerty. J.D. Power estimates the average retail price at around $14,550$ 14 comma 550$14,550.
- Low-end: The lowest recent auction sale was approximately $8,200$ 8 comma 200$8,200 for a vehicle in poor condition or with significant issues.
- High-end: The highest recent auction sale was over $62,700$ 62 comma 700$62,700, reserved for exceptionally well-maintained, rare, or modified examples with excellent history.
- Factors influencing value:
- Condition: Overall wear and tear, rust, and mechanical soundness.
- Mileage: Lower mileage cars are generally worth more.
- Originality: A car that is as close to factory-original as possible is often more valuable.
- Options: Certain factory options can increase the value.
- History: A well-documented history can add to the car's appeal.
How much is a 59 Ford Thunderbird worth?
The value of a 1959 Ford Thunderbird typically ranges from $13,500 (low) to $59,900 (high), with an average price around $27,000 to $28,500. The exact price depends heavily on the vehicle's condition, mileage, and specific options.
Value breakdown
- Average Value: Approximately $27,000 - $28,500
- $13,500: Low Value: and up for cars in poor or needing significant work
- $59,900: High Value: and up for vehicles in excellent, well-maintained, or concours condition
Factors that influence value
- Condition: The car's overall condition, including body, paint, interior, and mechanical components, is the most significant factor. A car with a high-quality restoration will command a much higher price.
- Mileage: Lower mileage is generally better, but a well-maintained car with higher mileage can still be valuable.
- Options: Specific options, such as the optional 350 HP 430 CID V-8 engine or unique factory colors, can increase value.
- History: A car's documented history, such as its number of owners or its provenance, can also affect its price.
