The family enjoyed it for more than two decades before the couple decided to go all the way on the restoration. On the positive side, their Thunderbird was well equipped with power windows including the vent windows, AM/FM radio and air conditioning. Little did they know that the restorer would cover up rust holes in the trunk with tin pop riveted in place and covered with roofing tar.

After $20,000 changed hands 25 years ago, they decided to have some upgrades made including rust repair. Mike and Loretta Schmidt had wanted a special car when they tracked the ’66 convertible down in Penticton. Once the trunk closed automatically, the car was a full convertible. It was a remarkable car for its times, as the convertible top retracted into the rear compartment after the trunk automatically opened backwards to swallow the top.

The 1966 Ford Thunderbird would mark the last convertible model produced until the two-passenger retro Thunderbirds came out in 2002.

On the Road: When a pandemic gives you lemons, you work on classic cars.

Owning and restoring classic cars is good for your mental health.

Tbird 1966