2025 Ford Thunderbird: Originally introduced in 1953 with a new model that was the brand’s answer to the Chevy Corvette, the first generation went into production the following year. The Ford Thunderbird had a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, was offered with an open overhead view, and featured body-on-frame construction.
The engines of choice are a pair of V8 units, with both manual and automatic transmissions available with three gears.
Because it was well received, the Ford Thunderbird survived for several more generations. It continued to be made until 1997 when the Blue Oval called attention to its tenth. After a five-year hiatus, they gave it one last chance with the eleventh generation.
This one was made in 2005 at the Wixom factory in Michigan. It came as a convertible with an optional hard top available, keeping true to the layout of the original model. As for the nuts and bolts, most were shared with several Jaguars, S-Types, and XFs of the era, as well as the Lincoln LS.
Regardless of how much someone wants to blow up the last Thunderbird, they’ll have to settle for one powertrain. It’s a 3.9-liter V8 engine linked to a five-speed automatic transmission.
The engine is a modified version of Jag’s 4.0-liter V8 engine and initially produces 252 hp (256 ps/188 kW) and 267 pound-feet (362 Nm) of torque.
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Instead, the gearbox has Ford’s signature. In later models, the engine was upgraded with variable valve timing and electronic throttle control and produced 280 hp (284 ps/209 kW) and 286 lb-ft (388 Nm) of torque. As you can imagine, the performance isn’t amazing, but it certainly doesn’t disappoint either.
Although some petrolheads want Ford to bring back the Thunderbird moniker it may never return. Not in a sports model with a V8 engine and rear-wheel drive, anyway.
But while the Dearborn company doesn’t seem at all interested in reviving the iconic nameplate, there have been several unofficial attempts over the years to revive it.
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The latest has jlord8’s signature and comes in the form of a pair of renders. Both are based on Aston Martins, and our favorite is the black one, as the other one looks a bit like a Mustang.
We’re certainly excited about the return of the original New 2025 Ford Thunderbird model wearing similar clothing, and we think it would probably sell in good numbers if positioned as a more premium pony car, perhaps marketed as a Lincoln.
FAQs: People also ask about Ford Thunderbird
Q: What year did Ford bring back the Thunderbird?
A: Thunderbird manufacture ceased in 1997, but was briefly revived as a two-passenger model from 2002 to 2005. Ford produced nearly 4.4 million Thunderbirds between 1955 and 2005 when they were finally phased out.
Q: Why was the Ford Thunderbird discontinued?
A: It wasn’t a bad car, but a sad interior and contentious appearance meant the Thunderbird’s greatest days were behind it. According to Hagerty, sales declined in 2003, with fewer than 15,000 Thunderbirds leaving the dealership lot. The last model year was 2005.
Q: Are Thunderbirds still being produced?
A: On July 1, 2005, the last Thunderbird, Ford Motor Company’s renowned sports car, leaves a Ford factory in Wixom, Michigan.