Overview:
This week I tested the 2004 Ford Thunderbird two-seater sports car. I’ve wanted to test this car for a while and was happy to have the opportunity. It reminds me of my high school days and when the first T-Birds arrived on the scene. Daddy bought one for Janet Z and I think the Beach Boys must have written that song “Fun, Fun, Fun” with her in mind. Some of the lyrics
go like this: … And she cruised through the hamburger stand, now. Seems she forgot all about the library Like she told her old man, now. And with the radio blasting – Goes cruisin\’ just as fast as she can, now. And she\’ll have fun, fun, fun \” \’Till her daddy takes the T-Bird away”.
For many who appreciate revisiting their youth, they will be sad to know Ford won’t keep the T-Bird in production much longer.
Handling & Performance:
Relatively fast (0-60 in 6.7 seconds) and surely faster than the original in 1955.
Styling:
The way we were… very close to the original. They could have done something different with the grill however. I’d like some variations on the theme and let consumers pick the best looking grill.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Conveniences:
Good assortment without the navigation systems or communications systems. I didn’t miss their absence.
Cost:
The price of Nostalgia just went up folks. But I guess Ford figures those who will buy this car have very little else to do with their money.
Consumer Recommendation:
If you are into collectibles, this is a nice addition to the stable. But surely this is a “Driver” and it is comfortable even on long trips. Although it only seats two, it does have a small trunk and was just fine for me and my baby taking a trip to visit friends in Arizona.
The Competition:
Chrysler Sebring $19-31,000, Mercedes Benz CLK $45-80,000, Lexus SC 430 $63,000.
Good News:
Unique limited production car, comfortable, smooth and an easy to use soft-top.
Bad News:
Pricey with the hard top option and rumor is it is already a discontinued model.
Standard Equipment:
3.9 liter 280 hp V8 engine, 5-speed auto trans, dual power mirrors, stereo with 6-in-dash CD changer, dual climate control, heated power leather seats, console, power tilt and telescopic steering wheel, leather wrapped steering wheel with controls, variable assist power steering, front and side air bags, 4-wheel power ventilated ABS disc brakes, 17 inch 7-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, power convertible soft top and traction control. Note, if you want a removable hard top add $2,500.
Gas Stats:
17 City and 25 Highway MPG.
Pricing:
MSRP $37,970.
General Info:
Parts – n/a
Assembly – Wixom, MI USA
Class: – Two Seater
Cars: – Crown Victoria, Escape, E-series Van and wagon, Excursion, Expedition, Explorer and sport trac, F150, F250, F350, Focus and wagon, Freestar, GT, Mustang, Ranger, Taurus and wagon and T-Bird.
