Under the Hood: A 1966 Convertible Proves to be a Rare Federal Government Find

Less than two years ago, Bill Coulter scored big from the federal government.

In late 2009, he placed a bid on his dream car — and won. It was during a U.S. bankruptcy court auction where an estate was on the docket.

Coulter's "new" polished convertible gleamed last week on Oak Park Avenue in , where the Woodridge resident had it parked with its hood open. He's repaired and replaced everything on the car that needed it, he said.

"It'll drive forever," Coulter said. "You just have to maintain it, that's all."

Make and Model: Ford Thunderbird convertible

Year: 1966

Odometer: 140,000 miles (but the engines nearly brand new)

Engine: 390 Horsepower V8

Interior: Cream vinyl with red piping

Year Purchased: 2009

Bought from: The federal government

Owner occupation: Former truck driver

Tags: 66 WPC

General fun facts: Power steering, disc brakes, 3-speed automatic transmission and dual exhaust

What makes it all worth it?: "I'm retired and I'm single. This is something fun to do."