Showing just over 32,000 original miles, it has always been treated as something special rather than a daily driver, and that care shows throughout.
32,736 miles. Beautiful one-year-only Mountain Shadow Gray paint with black leather interior. Two tops. Everything works, drives extremely well. Newer tires. An easy-to-live-with collector car that still turns heads everywhere it goes!
These late-model Thunderbirds were collectable from the start, which means that most of them lived very easy lives and this beautiful gray example is no exception. Showing just over 32,000 original miles, it has always been treated as something special rather than a daily driver, and that care shows throughout. Mountain Shadow Gray was only available in 2003, and it gives the Thunderbird a grown-up look that still stays true to its 1950s roots (a similar dark gray was available in 1957). It’s sophisticated and upscale rather than bright, but the deep metallic shine looks absolutely spectacular out in the sunlight. The car has never been hit or wrecked and you can see from the photos that it has never spent time out in the harsh weather, so rust is a non-issue. Original paint means no surprises underneath and the sheetmetal remains laser straight. All the gaps are just where the factory set them, so the doors swing closed with a solid THUNK and both the hood and trunk line up properly. There’s quite a bit of chrome on these late ‘Birds and it all remains in first-rate condition, adding a bright accent to the shiny gray finish.
Black leather is an ideal choice with the Mountain Shadow Gray paint, and like the rest of the car, the interior shows extremely well. The driver’s seat shows some light wrinkles from 22 years of life, but there are no splits or tears in the upholstery and everything else inside this car looks virtually new. Thunderbirds only came one way—loaded—which means you get features like ice cold A/C, power windows, locks, seats, and mirrors, cruise control, rear defrost, and a power tilt/telescope steering column. There’s also a powerful AM/FM/CD stereo system that sounds great even with the top down, and two cupholders in the center console are a thoughtful touch. Everything works, including the problematic instrument lights, and you’ll find that it’s easy to get comfortable in this car—it isn’t as low-slung as it looks. The convertible top is power actuated, so it stows itself in a matter of seconds, and this car includes a soft boot to cover the stack when it’s down. There’s also a removable porthole hardtop that comes with its original stand for easy storage. And there’s even a good-sized trunk out back that looks completely unmarked.
The only engine available in the T-Bird was a 3.9 liter DOHC V8, which is a great choice. Smooth and torquey, and willing to kick its heels up when prodded, it makes this two-seater feel sporty and powerful. It’s also a quiet cruising partner and thanks to modern fuel injection and other electronic controls, it starts instantly, idles properly, and generally goes about its business without any drama. If you’re looking for a hobby car that you can enjoy without the tinkering, the Thunderbird is a great choice. The engine bay is extremely clean—more evidence of an easy life—and while it’s not flashy with all that black plastic Ford did give it few vintage-looking details like the Thunderbird logo and fins on top. The standard 5-speed automatic transmission is the right choice for the easy-cruising ‘Bird and with a deep overdrive and 2.69 gears out back, it’s just effortless on the highway. The chassis is super clean with zero signs of rust or rot, and most of the factory markings and decals are still visible. The dual exhaust has a soft purr that’s just right, and the all-independent suspension is stiff enough for spirited driving but never harsh. Powerful 4-wheel discs live behind those shiny chrome wheels, which carry 235/50/17 radials with a lot of life left in them.
This car also includes a full set of factory owner’s manuals and other books.
Easy to live with, always able to attract attention, and just plain fun to drive, this Thunderbird is the car for the guy who likes cars but doesn’t want to get too involved. Turn the key, put the top down, and go. With a full complement of comfort and convenience features, your passenger will enjoy the ride as well, making it ideal for casual fun. And isn’t that what the Thunderbird has always been about? Call today!
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