[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”24″ el_class=”used-value-text”]Ford aimed the Thunderbird at “relaxed sportiness,” and basically hit the mark–though sales slumped after initial high demand. The two-seater is not as mechanically refined as it should be, and interior materials fail to impress. Even so, Thunderbird is more practical than a genuine sports car. As a near-luxury two-passenger V8 convertible, it’s in a class by itself.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-overview-text” title=”Overview”]
Ford revived a famous old name with the 2002 Thunderbird, a two-passenger convertible with unabashedly retro styling cues. It was built on a shortened version of the rear-wheel-drive platform that had been developed for the Lincoln LS and Jaguar S-Type sedans.
A removable hardtop with the T-Bird’s “trademark” porthole windows was available to supplement the standard power-folding soft top, which had a heated glass rear window. The only engine was a 3.9-liter V8 shared with the LS. The sole transmission was a Lincoln/Jaguar five-speed automatic.
Thunderbirds came with antilock four-wheel disc brakes, side airbags, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a CD changer. A Premium model added chrome wheels and traction control, Interior upgrade packages matched various trim pieces to the car’s exterior color. Many Thunderbirds were painted in pastel hues, as had been the case with the original 1955-57 models.
2003 Thunderbird
More horsepower marked the sophomore edition of Ford’s revived Thunderbird. The 3.9-liter V8 gained 28 horsepower, now rated at 280. Once again, the sole transmission was a five-speed automatic; but for 2003, it was available with an extra-cost manual-shift feature. The Thunderbird’s instrument cluster also was revised this year.
Deluxe and Premium trim levels were offered, the Premium distinguished by standard heated seats and chrome alloy wheels.
2004 Thunderbird
Revisions were minor for 2004. A new Light Sand interior trim package was available, wheels were restyled, and a universal garage-door opener became standard.
2005 Thunderbird
A 50th Anniversary model joins Ford’s 2-seat convertible line for 2005. Added midyear, the 50th Anniversary model gets unique trim, a standard removable hardtop, and a manual-shift feature. The Thunderbird is scheduled to be discontinued after 2005.
[/mk_table][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Engines”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text title=”Engines” disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-engine-section-head”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”12″ el_class=”used-powertrains”]longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”24″ el_class=”used-powertrain-text”]In its first season on the market, the Thunderbird’s dual-overhead-cam 3.9-liter V8 engine made 252 horsepower. Output rose to 280 hp for 2003. All Thunderbirds have a five-speed automatic transmission. For 2005, a manual-shift feature was made available on the 5-speed automatic.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mk_table style=”style2″ el_class=”used-engine-specs”]
Full-throttle standing-start acceleration was good in the 2002 model. But the 2002s were sometimes slow to respond in the 35-55 mph range, because the transmission did not always downshift promptly.
Later models feel strong at all speeds, able to reach 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. However, sloppy, indecisive gear changes and tardy downshifts still frustrate smooth delivery of power and inhibit passing response. The manual-shift feature does not help much, either.
Fuel economy is subpar. Test 2002 examples averaged 16.3 to 20.5 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving. Ford recommends premium fuel.
Although the Thunderbird’s ride is not as smooth or solid as might be expected, it’s more compliant than most two-seat convertibles. That’s especially with the top down, when bumps can be absorbed by body flex. Expect significant top-down cowl shake over bumps, but rigidity is okay with the hardtop in place.
Serving as a relaxed cruiser, the T-Bird is too big and heavy to be sports-car agile, especially in tight maneuvers. Still, the two-seater exhibits good steering response, modest body lean, and good cornering grip.
Quietness is another virtue. A cozy coupe with hardtop in place, the Thunderbird is among the quieter convertibles with the soft top up or down. Relatively minor wind disturbance is evident with the top down, but normal conversation is possible with the windows up.
Road noise and the exhaust note are appropriately subdued, and the engine emits a satisfying whine in full acceleration. The convertible top is nicely lined and insulated.
Smaller-sized gauges improved the 2003 instrument cluster, but they retained a hard-to-read black-on-white scheme with turquoise needles. Audio and climate controls are close to the driver, but look-alike climate buttons can be confusing. A convenient central latch on the windshield header manually releases the soft top, which powers down in about 8 seconds.
Overall, the cabin falls short of seriously upscale in appearance and feel, with run-of-the-mill materials and, in some cases, indifferent assembly. Optional body-color interior trim looks jazzy, but some of it has a tacky, painted appearance.
Thunderbirds are wider than most two-seaters, but long-legged folks might find footwells confining. With the top up, tall occupants will want more head room. The driving position is nicely tailored via a standard power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, but seats are fairly hard and mostly flat.
Outward vision is compromised by thick windshield pillars and, top-up, by short side windows and the top’s wide rear quarters. The hardtop’s porthole corner windows help some, but vision for lane changes is still blocked by the right headrest. Entry/exit is better than in most two-seaters, aided by conventional ride height, though long doors can frustrate in tight spaces.
Careful packing gets a couple’s small bags into the shallow trunk, but it won’t accept tall objects. A bin behind the seats is suitable for purse or briefcase, but nearly inaccessible with the top up.
There’s a small glovebox, console bin, map pockets, and two console cupholders, but no ashtray.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][mk_content_box icon=”icon-road” heading=”Ratings” el_class=”ratings-box”][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”18″]Model Tested: 2002 Ford Thunderbird Premium[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”18″ el_class=”review-slideshow-caption”]Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-performance-ratings” title=”Performance”][mk_skill_meter title=”Acceleration – 6″ percent=”60″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Fuel Economy – 4″ percent=”40″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Ride Quality – 5″ percent=”50″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Steering/Handling – 7″ percent=”70″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Quietness – 4″ percent=”40″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Accommodations” el_class=”used-accomodations-ratings”][mk_skill_meter title=”Controls/Materials – 7″ percent=”70″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Room/Comfort Front – 6″ percent=”60″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Room/Comfort Rear – 0″ percent=”00″ color=”#0bb697″][mk_skill_meter title=”Cargo Room – 2″ percent=”20″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Other” el_class=”used-other-ratings”][mk_skill_meter title=”Value – 4″ percent=”40″ color=”#0bb697″][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-ratings-total”]
Air conditioner
Description: The air conditioning may not work properly on the driver’s or passenger’s vents on models with dual automatic temperature control due to a bad control head module. (2002)
Cold-starting problems
Description: The engine may flood when starting in cold (between 30-40 degrees F), damp weather requiring recalibration of the powertrain control module. (2002)
Engine fan
Description: The engine may overheat due to a malfunction of the hydraulic cooling fan motor on the 3.9L DOHC engine. (2002)
Oil leak
Description: Small oil leaks from the oil pan drain plug require the use of a drain plug sealing washer instead of the rubber O-ring. (2002)
2002
Description: During a crash, the seat recliner may come into contact with the seatbelt, causing it to possibly cut the lap portion. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2004
Description: Certain power adjustable seats may have been improperly welded, increasing the risk of injury during a crash. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2005
Description: Fuel tank may crack because of localized thin wall section, creating potential for fuel leakage and odor.
[/mk_table][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Equipment” visibility=”hidden-sm”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_accordions style=”fancy-style” action_style=”accordion-action” open_toggle=”0″ container_bg_color=”#fff”][vc_accordion_tab title=”Equipment Lists”][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″]Click on year to see equipment lists for all models offered for that model year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab title=”2002″][mk_table style=”style1″ el_class=”used-equipment-table”]
2002 Ford Thunderbird
Pricing Effective: 03/30/2002
Model Pricing
Retail Price
Dealer Price
Destination
Deluxe 2-door convertible
$ 35,390
$ 32,556
$ 555
Deluxe 2-door convertible w/removable hardtop
37,890
34,806
555
Premium 2-door convertible
36,390
33,456
555
Premium 2-door convertible w/removable hardtop
38,890
35,706
555
Price Note:
Standard Equipment
Deluxe : 3.9-liter dohc V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, dual front airbags, side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, emergency inside trunk release, air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate control, power steering, tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, leather upholstery, bucket seats, 6-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, 2-way power passenger seat, center console, cupholders, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, digital clock, steering-wheel radio controls, tachometer, power convertible top, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, remote power decklid release, visor mirrors, automatic headlights, floormats, theft-deterrent system, 235/50VR17 tires, alloy wheels
Deluxe : 3.9-liter V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, traction control, dual front airbags, side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, emergency inside trunk release, air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, power steering, power tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, bucket seats, 6-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, 2-way power passenger seat, center console, cupholders, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, digital clock, tachometer, power convertible top, variable-intermittent wipers, universal garage-door opener, rear defogger, visor mirrors, automatic headlights, floormats, theft-deterrent system, 235/50VR17 tires, alloy wheels
Premium adds: heated seats, chrome alloy wheels
50th Anniversary adds: 5-speed automatic w/manual-shift capability, unique interior and exterior trim, removable hardtop, soft top boot
Optional Equipment
Option Note:
Major Packages
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Light Sand Appearance Pkg.
Premium
$1000
$890
Unique interior trim, cream-colored gauges.
Partial Interior Color Accent Pkg.
Premium
595
530
Exterior-color steering wheel, shifter trim, and seat insert.
Full Interior Color Accent Pkg.
Premium
800
712
Exterior-color dashboard, console, door, steering wheel, shifter trim and seat insert.
Black Accent Pkg.
Deluxe, Premium
295
263
Black steering wheel and shifter trim.
Powertrain
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Manual-shift capability
Deluxe, Premium
130
116
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Option
Avail.
Retail
Dealer
Removable hardtop
Premium
2500
2225
Supplemental parking lights
Deluxe, Premium
0
0
Soft top boot
Deluxe, Premium
125
112
Machined alloy wheels
Premium
0
0
[/mk_table][/vc_accordion_tab][/vc_accordions][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Equipment” visibility=”visible-sm”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ title=”Equipment Lists”]Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section attachment=”scroll” bg_position=”left top” bg_repeat=”repeat” bg_stretch=”false” enable_3d=”false” speed_factor=”4″ bg_video=”no” video_mask=”false” video_opacity=”0.6″ top_shadow=”false” section_layout=”full” sidebar=”General” min_height=”100″ padding_top=”10″ padding_bottom=”10″ margin_bottom=”0″ first_page=”false” last_page=”true” section_id=”Pricing”][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″ el_class=”used-pricing-text” title=”Pricing”]Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section]
