How much is a 1964 Thunderbird worth?
In short, a 1964 Thunderbird’s value varies widely based on condition, trim, and originality. Typical driver-quality cars often fall in the low to mid tens of thousands, while well-preserved or restored examples commonly sit in the mid-range, and concours-grade cars can exceed the low six-figures in rare cases. Rare variants such as convertibles or highly documented, numbers-matching cars can push prices higher still.
To understand the question more fully, it helps to consider the Thunderbird’s place in Ford’s lineup, the different body styles and trims offered in 1964, and how market demand shifts over time. Values are influenced by everything from overall condition and mechanical reliability to provenance, documentation, and originality. This article summarizes current market trends, price bands by condition, and practical guidance for buyers and sellers in 2025.
Current market snapshot
Market data for classic Thunderbirds from 1964 reflects a broad spectrum of pricing. Dealer listings, private sales, and auction results show a wide range, with most solid, driver-quality cars typically priced between the mid-teens and mid-twenties of thousands of dollars, and more pristine or restored examples commonly landing in the $30,000–$60,000 range. Show-quality, numbers-matching, or highly original cars—especially rare configurations like convertibles or well-documented lineage—can command significantly higher prices at specialty auctions. Regional demand can also tilt values by a few thousand dollars in either direction.
What factors influence a 1964 Thunderbird’s value?
The value of a 1964 Thunderbird is not driven by a single element. The following factors commonly determine where a car falls on the market spectrum:
- Condition and drivability: Whether the car runs reliably and how cosmetic issues are handled.
- Originality and matching numbers: How much of the car remains stock and whether the VIN and engine match factory specifications.
- Trim level and body style: Hardtop, Landau, or convertible versions; two-seat versus four-seat layouts can carry different desirability.
- Documentation and history: Service records, ownership history, and restoration provenance add value.
- All-around presentation: Interior condition, paint quality, chrome, and fitment affect perceived value and actual offers.
Understanding these factors helps buyers avoid overpaying for a car with hidden issues and helps sellers price accordingly to reflect true market demand.
Pricing by condition and configuration
Before listing or evaluating a 1964 Thunderbird, consider how condition and configuration map to typical price bands. The following ranges are intended as guidance based on current market activity and price guides; actual prices can vary by region and negotiation.
- Non-running project or car requiring substantial work: roughly 7,000–15,000 USD.
- Runner with cosmetic flaws or needing mechanical refresh: roughly 15,000–25,000 USD.
- Solid, driver-quality car with decent cosmetics and reliable operation: roughly 25,000–40,000 USD.
- Excellent, largely original or properly restored with solid documentation: roughly 40,000–60,000 USD.
- Concours-grade or highly original, fully restored, or rare configurations (e.g., a well-documented convertible or Landau): 60,000 USD and up, often significantly higher in top-tier markets or at specialty auctions.
Prices above reflect typical wholesale and retail ranges observed in markets that value classic American cars, including classic-car dealerships, private-party transactions, and auction results from major events. Individual results may vary based on the car’s unique story and market conditions at the time of sale.
Variant and trim impact on value
Different 1964 Thunderbird configurations affect desirability and value. Here’s how some common variants tend to influence pricing:
- Hardtop two-door standard: The baseline for many collectors; values rise with condition and presentation.
- Landau (vinyl roof, upscale detailing): Often commands a premium over base hardtops when in good condition, due to styling cues and perceived luxury.
- Convertible (rarer for 1964; higher production costs and collector interest): Typically the strongest premium among body styles when well-preserved or properly restored.
- Numbers-matching, documented restoration: Significantly boosts value, especially if the build sheet and codes align with factory specifications.
- Originality vs. restored balance: Cars that maintain authentic parts and patina can fetch strong prices; over-restored or heavily modified examples may trade at lower levels than similarly styled, well-preserved originals.
When evaluating a specific car, buyers should weigh how each variant and its historical context interact with current demand in their region or at targeted auctions.
Where to research values and how to buy smart
To gauge a Thunderbird’s value accurately, consult multiple sources and compare recent sale results. Price guides and marketplaces offer snapshots that can help frame a reasonable target price.
- Hagerty Price Guide and valuation reports for the 1964 Thunderbird, including condition tiers and trend data.
- Mecum and Barrett-Jackson auction results for recent sales of similar year-model Thunderbirds, especially convertibles and Landau editions.
- ClassicCar community listings and dealer inventories to observe regional pricing and availability.
When buying, obtain a thorough mechanical inspection, verify matching numbers if that is important to you, review restoration documentation, and assess the originality of the interior, trim, and chrome. Negotiating from a position of knowledge can help secure a fair deal.
Summary
A 1964 Ford Thunderbird sits in a broad price spectrum, driven by condition, trim, and provenance. Expect driver-quality cars in the mid-teens to low-twenties of thousands, higher-quality drivers in the £25,000–$40,000 range, and show-quality or rare variants surpassing $60,000 or more. By understanding the key factors—condition, originality, trim, and documentation—buyers and sellers can navigate the market with realistic expectations and secure fair deals shaped by current demand.
How many 1964 Thunderbirds were made?
92,465
How much is a 64 Thunderbird worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $13,000 for a 1964 Ford Thunderbird in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1964 Ford Thunderbird at auction over the last three years was $126,500.
How much is a 1964 Chevy worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $30,983 for a 1964 Chevrolet Impala in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1964 Chevrolet Impala at auction over the last three years was $156,000.
What's special about the 1964 Thunderbird?
1964 Thundebird Hardtop. Here is the essence of a classic...the look that lasts long after the others fade. Here, too, is motion that is almost magic. Factors: 300-horsepower Thunderbird 390 V-8 engine, Cruise-O-Matic Drive, power steering and brakes.
