come back Ford Thunderbird

[Rondor]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

I have no idea what kind of market we have today, but Besides the eco and mileage demand there still has to be a few of us left that would buy a car that has style. Especially since we can now have the best of both worlds. Some of the highest prices at the auctions are the customs with old style and modern technology. I for one would love a modern '59, 4 seater bird

[BirdsAndBugs]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

When my wife and I saw the concept Thunderbird back in 1999, we both loved it. I had that feeling again in 2002 and in 2003 when I finally got a chance to really get upclose to one. When I saw them at the Ford dealer, I felt this was such a well done re-interpretation of one of the most classic American cars, the 55-57 Ford Thunderbird. I felt I really wanted to own one as cars like these really don't come along very often especially as the auto manufacturers try to lower costs by building more cars on the same platforms. So I bought it and have no regrets. Liked it so well, I bought a second Thunderbird in 2008 after falling in love with the classic inca gold color.

However, if we ever see another Thunderbird, I hope it returns back to being a 2 door 4 seat personal near luxury coupe that is reasonably priced; like it had been for been for most of it's history. It would certainly work more practically for my daily transportation.

[AZTB]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

In order for Ford to reintroduce the Bird, they'd have to have a RWD platform with IRS (cuz there ain't no way I'd EVER buy a FWD Bird). And they don't have that and it doesn't appear they will any time soon, although there have been some rumblings about the next generation Stang having IRS, but that's primarily come from Motor Trend & Car/Driver.

[jerrym3]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

For a solid axle car, the Mustang's handling has been getting pretty good press.

[AZTB]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

I agree, Jerry...it's an amazing platform. MT has been giving it a solid review, especially with the latest drivetrain in the 2011 model, which has been running circles around the Camaro, including handling!

However, that being said, until Ford comes up with a 21st century RWD platform, I don't see the Bird coming back or the Lincoln going anywhere.

[lasuvidaboy]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

As posted I would also love to see a 4-seat 2-door convertible TBird w/styling based on the early to mid 1960s models. Sleek lines w/a low rear deck would be a rare sight in this day of look-alike cars w/fat boxy rear ends.

[ibjeff]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

I had this picture saved from a while back. Interesting concept...Ford-Thunderbird-Hardtop-Roadster-Concept-1.jpg

[ibjeff]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

Here are some other pics from the same blogFord-Thunderbird-Hardtop-Roadster-Concept-2.jpg Ford-Thunderbird-Hardtop-Roadster-Concept-3.jpg

[ibjeff]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

And a renderingFord-Thunderbird-Hardtop-Roadster-Concept-4.jpg

[Gobird]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

JMO but that looks like crap.

[BITWTB]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

OK, let's rethink the market....maybe there isn't one for the Thunderbird any more.
There was a thirst for something completely different after the end of WWII. Not much different out there except for the plastic Corvette and a soon to be released Thunderbird.
Completely different demographics, however. These days, there are many options for the consumer. Maybe the Thunderbird market just isn't there these days.

[ibjeff]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

OK, let's rethink the market....maybe there isn't one for the Thunderbird any more.
There was a thirst for something completely different after the end of WWII. Not much different out there except for the plastic Corvette and a soon to be released Thunderbird.
Completely different demographics, however. These days, there are many options for the consumer. Maybe the Thunderbird market just isn't there these days.

Sad, but certainly could be true.

[Ray]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

If for no other reason but the name itself, I'd sure hate to see Ford retire the Thunderbird. I think Thunderbird is one of the best names for a car ever conceived.

[BITWTB]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

If for no other reason but the name itself, I'd sure hate to see Ford retire the Thunderbird. I think Thunderbird is one of the best names for a car ever conceived.

Absolutely, a great name, but they need to jack up the name plate and drive a new car under it. One that folks actually want to own. As Ford did in '53, maybe they need to redefine what an enjoyable car should be. That is a most difficult assignment for designers and engineers, for sure.

[phil]

Re: come back Ford Thunderbird

i think the days of a retro T Bird are over if it ever came back it would be the name plate on an entirely different car. The only folks who care about the T Birds are the people who wanted the original 55-57 and were too young then and then the originals became too expensive. The retro birds gave us a chance to own our dream. Most of my sons friends who are in the 20s don't appreciate this car at all. It is a great name and may someday be on a sporty model from Ford. I think enjoy the retros and I will leave for my kids because 20 or 30 yeas it will be a classic