Ford's Thunderbird nameplate would run from 1954 to 1997 across ten generations. It defined what the Personal Luxury Car would be to Americans, akin to Europe's Grand Tourers. In 2002, Ford decided to do a retro-modern homage to the original, and the eleventh generation was born, with a short production run of just three years. Just 68,000 were sold, which was considered lackluster at the time. However, that also makes this 2003 Ford Thunderbird Convertible a desirable future classic, and the 40,900-mile odometer reading only increases its allure.

Exterior and Interior

Pastel shades were the order of the day in the Fifties and Sixties, and this 2003 Ford Thunderbird Convertible does a nice homage to that era with its Robin's Egg Blue paint job. Granted, the seven-spoke alloy wheels are not vintage but add a retro-modern vibe to the car, and they reportedly wear new tires. Ditto the circular head and tail lamp clusters which are retro-styled but feature modern lighting technology. A black convertible top is present to keep you protected from the elements when required. While Ford's first generation Thunderbird was a strict four-seater, subsequent generations added a rear seat. This 2003 Ford Thunderbird Convertible takes it back to its roots, as you'll only find heated and leather-trimmed seating for two in the original black interior. The steering wheel features media and cruise control buttons, and the instrument cluster has a sort of retro-modern vibe to it as well. As you'd expect on a luxury product, dual-zone climate control, power windows, power mirrors, power door locks, an in-dash 6-CD changer, and Audiophile premium sound system are on offer. The seller also reports a large storage space is present.

Engine

With underpinnings from Ford that were shared with Jaguar at the time, this 2003 Ford Thunderbird Convertible is related to the Jaguar S-Type and uses the 3.9L Jaguar AJ35 V8 with variable valve timing and electronic throttle control. Delivering 280hp of power and 286lb-ft of torque, drive goes to the rear wheels through a Ford Bordeaux five-speed automatic transmission. The seller reports new spark plugs and new brakes have been fitted to this car.