The Best of the Ford Thunderbird
Even your grampa who drove the original would be impressed. It was over fifty years ago when Ford first came out with the Thunderbird. In grampa’s day, automobile choices were thin, yet they still bough this car in droves. Today, we’re awash in a sea of car choices, and people still in masses.
The convertible version of the Thunderbird first came off the assembly line back in 2002. Ford read the tea-leaves and brought back the retro style of the Ford Thunderbird. One can not misplace this vehicle from it’s 50′s roots. Everyone flocked the the signature porthole windows. Buyers responded most favorably in the first year, and then declined each year afterwards. After four years, Ford ended its production. Like other convertibles, you would need a Thunderbird windscreen (windblocker wind deflector) to tame the wind while driving top-down.
This car was manufactured on a smaller version of the rear wheel drive platform, also used for the Lincoln LS and Jaguar S-Type sedans. Under the hood, the only option for power was the 3.9 liter, V8, which was also shared with the LS. The Ford Thunderbird came with only one transmission option, a five speed manual or automatic. Off the factory line, the Ford Thunderbird also came equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, side airbags, and stunning 17-inch alloy wheels. If you wanted to upgrade, then you could get chrome wheels and traction control. One accessory for everybody’s t-buy list is a Thunderbird windscreen (windblocker or wind deflector), or see convertible windscreen reviews for more options. Unlike typical roadsters that cram you in, the Thunderbird is spacious, both in the passenger compartment and the trunk. This car does tend to be heavy, compromising handling on curvy roads and acceleration.
Prospective buyers contemplating a used Thunderbird have many options in configurations and powertrains. Those in the know go for the extra power, while those wanting comfort seek a stiffer chassis.
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