These aerobirds, especially the plain-vanilla versions like this one, are at risk of extinction. They appeared out of nowhere in 1983, and multiplied exceedingly quickly. Even in California, which was so anti-domestic at the time, these became as common as starlings or crows. But now they’re at danger of extinction.
We’ve covered the Turbo-Coupe version several times here, including this CC and my Auto-Biography of my TC. And Jason did a CC on an Elan version way back in 2012. But this is a base version of Ford’s re-sculptured Thunderbird. And probably with the 3.8 V6 under its long beak.
By 1986, the carry-over dash from the previous Box-Bird had finally been replaced by something that looked a bit more organic to the rest of the design. And that went for the steering wheel too.
If I had to guess, this is a classic old lady-mobile, which led a very sheltered and pampered life, which explains its current state, that more closely resembles a three year old car instead of a car with decades. A rare bird indeed.
Note: a rerun of an older post.
I can’t say I’m surprised these aerobirds are nearing extinction. I was forced to drive one as a rental. I had prerequested a Crown Victoria. I’ll admit to having no interest in Thunderbird after the 79 model. Again, IMO these were just BUTT UGLY.
Not a handsome car, but it WAS a 2 door coupe, rare for its time. My very cool mother, who drove a 5-speed, BMW 633, saw the T-Bird for what it really was, a design theft by Ford.
At least the SC version had some sporting pretensions…