Vehicle Description
For the final production run of the legendary Thunderbird, Ford
returned to the original formula of a two-seat convertible, just
like the originals. It has been described as "Retrofuturistic", or
a "Retrobird", and that seems to describe it fairly well. It's a
retro look but has the best of modern technology. It also has less
than 50,000 miles on it! Check it out.
Smooth lines and graceful curves intentionally recall the character
of the original 1955 model. Up front there is a chrome grill with
fog lights built into the bumper. These headlights have been canted
back a bit however, blending more aerodynamically into the fenders
instead of reaching forward as in the original. There is a
Thunderbird proudly displayed just above the grill, and a hood
scoop that looks appropriately sporty. Long straight body lines run
the length of the car from the "Anniversary" script on the front
fender to the back, although it blends into smoothly curved rear
fenders instead of fins on this one. From this basic body, the look
changes dramatically with the different roof looks. A black
convertible roof looks great when it's up, but of course, pushing
the button to stash it on a nice day is always fun and brings back
the classic drop top sportscar look. However, for the winter, or
just for fun, you could opt to put on the white metal hard top with
the iconic Opera window.
Open the door and you are greeted by an interior that is the
perfect blend of old school craftsmanship with modern comfort and
convenience features. It has a classic black foundation, with red
accents adding a bit of attitude. The leather seats are a striking,
comfortable, and supportive combination of black with red pleated
inserts and thigh bolster. The steering wheel is topped by red and
has technology controls at your fingertips. The center console
stack starts at the top with the sound system, then the ventilation
system with its dozens of possible variations for your comfort, and
finally the power roof switch and seat heaters. A really nice
feature in a two-seat car is a shelf behind the seats big enough
for personal items like groceries, or even coolers and dogs if you
wish. As you grab the red shift knob for the 5-speed automatic
transmission with manual shift mode, be aware that there is a
button for turning off the traction control for a little extra fun
if you wish.
That transmission will be handling the power from a powerful and
modern, double overhead cam V8 engine that pumps 280 horsepower out
of its 3.9 Liters. It has a factory dress up kit that includes an
engine topper with Thunderbird and V8 emblems proudly displayed,
along with matching valve covers. It is completely stock and sits
in an engine bay so neat and clean it looks like it just rolled off
the assembly line. The chassis on this car is a wonderful
combination of comfort and capability. The power is sent back to an
independent suspension that puts the power on the ground through
deceptively large 235/50ZR17 tires tucked up under those smooth
fenders. Up front, rack and pinion steering working through the
same 235/50ZR17 tires, helps make this car handle smooth and light
like a sports car, not like a V8 muscle car. 4-wheel disc brakes
inspire confidence and insure that you can reel this baby back in
if you decide to let it run.
Come on down and check this car out. It is an awesome car in its
own right. It is also a low mileage, anniversary example of the
last of the breed. And it could be yours.