1971 Ford LTD Convertible

Description

You probably won't be able to get more convertible for your money than this 1972 Ford LTD convertible. With a smooth 351 cubic inch V8, a great color combination, and that old convertible coolness that only time can provide, it's a very appealing way to get into the game for not a lot of cash. Stand out with this bright red Ford!

The LTD was Ford's top-of-the-line ragtop in 1971, joining the Mustang ragtop because the era of the convertible wasn't over yet. The big LTD actually looks rather handsome as a drop-top, both with the top up and topless, which is attributable to the clean lines and great proportions. Despite being a product of the '70s, it is almost restrained in its use of chrome but with nearly 18 feet of bright red sheetmetal, it's hard to miss. It remains in quite good condition, offering an older repaint that's showing a bit of age but no evidence of previous accidents or neglect. The creases along the fenders are still sharp, the gaps are good, and even that giant hood fits well. With deeply recessed headlights and a "power dome" on the hood, it's rather aggressive from the front while the taillights and center-mounted LTD emblem give the appearance of a full-width light treatment similar to the Thunderbird. The big bumpers shine up nicely and with the black rocker cladding, it looks especially long and low.

Wide bench seats provide room for six in this big cruiser and the handsome vinyl upholstery is still in fantastic shape. We're guessing that most of the interior is original, which speaks highly of the care this car has received, especially since it's a convertible that's been out in the sun. There's a bit of wear in the usual areas, particularly in the front, but nothing has worn to the point that it needs to be replaced. The driver gets a wrap-around instrument panel with plenty of fake wood and a wide speedometer, but it should feel familiar if you've ever driven a Ford from the '70s. There's a modern AM/FM/CD stereo head unit in the dash and newer speakers in the door panels, so cruising is effortless. If there are any demerits, they're the missing horn button and perhaps some brittle window sweeps, but both of those are easy, inexpensive fixes. On the plus side, there's a brand new black power convertible top that works extremely well and a gigantic trunk that's ready for a road trip.

Ford's torquey and smooth 351 cubic inch V8 provides plenty of motive force for this big ragtop. It's quite stock under the hood and if you spent a weekend really cleaning it up, it'll look like a million bucks. Check out how nicely preserved the Ford Blue engine enamel is, the original decals on the various components, and no signs of distress. It starts easily, idles well, and with a 2-barrel carburetor, it's reasonably thrifty (although you should not expect to win any fuel mileage contests with this car). It's backed by a 3-speed automatic transmission and super tall gears out back, making it a great choice for long highway cruises where it never seems to get tired. The undercarriage is quite original, but it shows off what living in a warm climate gives you; it's dirty but it isn't rotted out the way a car from up north might be. That's a big plus. There's also a mellow dual exhaust system and big 225/70/15 whitewall radials with factory wire hubcaps.

These are great-driving cars that are surprisingly getting popular with customizers. This is either a great way to get started in the hobby or a great start to an awesome custom. Call today!