1959 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

The 1958 through 1960 Ford Thunderbirds shared the same body style and were clearly identical to each other in many respects. Exterior changes were limited to body trim, grille design, and tail light layout. To lower the top on the 1958 and 1959 models, the driver first unlocked the windshield mounts and then raised the deck lid via an instrument panel control, as shown in the picture below.  The top control, located in the trunk, was then actuated. Mid-year 1959 and 1960 models (and years henceforth), the top control was "fully automatic" ...after the deck lid was raised, the top then lowered using the same instrument panel control switch.

From the Ford Buyer's Digest of New Car Facts for 1959:

"The classic expression of convertible dash and grace, and the ultimate in comfort, luxury, and performance. An exclusive Ford "first" in the fine car field which cannot be duplicated but which is nevertheless priced far below other luxury cars!"