Vehicle Description
The Ford Thunderbird has an illustrious history that dates back to
the mid-'50s and is such a part of Americana that it's been
immortalized in music and movies alike. Ford drew upon this history
when they reintroduced the model, throwing in a generous helping of
vintage styling to go along with a decidedly more refined driving
experience than its predecessors. Not all that many of these 11th
generation T-Birds were made, however, giving this 2005 Ford
Thunderbird some bona fide collectability value that's enhanced by
it also having the honors of being the final class year to roll off
the assembly line.
Its bronze metallic color is a flattering shade, looking every bit
as appropriate in the present day as it has on legions of classic
cars over the years. Though it wasn't on the original color palette
when the Thunderbird was introduced so many years ago, it very much
looks like it could have been. This T-Bird closed out its
generation sporting the two-seater configuration and approximate
wheelbase featured in the nameplate's heyday, and it carries a
number of other styling cues reminiscent of model years past, as
well, including its front grille and headlights. Engineering has
advanced over the years, however, and you can see a decided
refinement in its shape, which retains its appeal with its beige
cloth convertible top raised. It also comes with a matching
accessory hardtop that fits well and features a pair of
porthole-shaped windows, a fitting and intentional nod to previous
generations.
The light sand upholstery inside contrasts nicely with the black
dash area, console and door panels surrounding it, with bucket
seats that are comfortably supportive and still have plenty of use
left in them. In front, the dash area is equal parts stylish and
ergonomically savvy - with an instrument cluster that remains in
fresh condition and an assortment of controls within easy reach
toward its center. This is a well-equipped and rewarding driving
environment, with heated power seats that come in handy during the
winter months and a rear window defogger - a real benefit not
always found on convertibles - to go along with cruise control,
power windows and power door locks. Your listening needs will be
well attended to via the AM/FM CD changer sitting front and center
in the dash. Driver- and passenger-side airbags certainly make it
safer, while its anti-theft device is a nice feature that helps
insure this post-millennial roadster never leaves your possession.
The trunk area in back has more space than you might expect, with
sides and floor that show no stains and still fit neatly
together.
A couple of years into the Thunderbird's production, Ford upped the
output of the 3.9-liter DOHC V8 that sits in the engine bay,
equipping it with a full 280 horsepower - about 25 more than when
the model was reintroduced. It continues to represent itself well -
starting up easily and running smoothly. Factor in a 5-speed
automatic transmission that shifts securely, and you have a very
road-ready open-air ride, equipped with smooth power steering that
makes navigating a breeze, as well as power disc brakes on all four
corners to bring it to a prompt stop when needed. This stylish
homage to T-Bird generations past rides on a set of 17" cast
aluminum wheels wrapped with Yokohama tires.
If you enjoy hitting the road with just the blue sky above you,
this 2005 Ford Thunderbird convertible is a latter day drop top
offering modern convenience blended with a heralded lineage that
makes it worth a serious look. Call today!