We don't just talk cars ... we teach how to buy them.
"Ford Thunderbirds: Buying Guide And How To Get The Best Price!"
Potential used Ford Thunderbird buyers can use this information to help identify which models may be the best fit as well as how to then purchase the vehicle at the best possible price ... and yes, even at wholesale.
Ford reintroduced the Thunderbird in 2002 and it quickly won the Motor Trend Car Of The Year" honor (for the fourth time). Basically, it's a recreation of the 1955-1957 Thunderbird in a modern style.
While the critical acclaim and reviews for the new Retro Bird were largely quite positive, the vehicle failed to attract significant consumer support. Less than 10,000 were sold in 2004 and, in 2005, Ford decided to pull the plug.
Our own opinion is that Ford had changed the car much closer to a "luxury" car, and away from the "sports car" driving feel of the old classic. Too bad, it's a beautiful convertible, has all the amenities, and it is indeed a pleasure to drive. But it's true that it's just not a sports car and is more of a blend between luxury and performance.
And it's mostly this last generation of Thunderbird that we see at the dealer auctions we attend. The older, "classic" Thunderbird of days gone by can be found at car collector auctions, a market we do not participate in.
For those shopping for a used Ford Thunderbird produced for the 2002 through 2005 model years, here's some background information on the vehicle.
Under the hood is an aluminum, 3.9-liter, dual-overhead-cam V-8 engine that's good for 252 horsepower. It's paired with a a close-ratio 5-speed-automatic transmission.
Standard features for the base Deluxe model include head and chest side-impact airbags, four-wheel antilock (ABS) disc brakes, leather upholstery, dual zone climate control, power windows, power door locks, power seats, a 15-inch leather-wrapped, 4-spoke steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, speed-sensitive wipers, an AM/FM radio/stereo system with a 6-disc CD changer and Ford's SecuriLock and passive anti-theft systems. In addition, the Premium model came with traction control, heated seats and chrome alloy wheels.
A used Thunderbird can also be found with several options, including chrome wheels instead of the painted ones, an interior upgrade package, all speed traction control and a removable hardtop with the T-Bird's "trademark" porthole windows instead of the standard power-folding soft top with its heated glass rear window.
Year-to-year changes:
2003: While the 3.9-liter V8 remained the same, it was given a 28 horsepower boost to 280. Also new was a manual-shift feature for the 5-speed automatic as well as some instrument cluster revisions.
2004: There were only slight revisions for 2004, including restyled wheels, a standard univeral garage-dooe opener and the availability of a Light Sand interior trim package.
2005: A 50th Anniversary model was offered with Cashmere metallic paint with a matching removable top and Medium Light Stone cloth convertible top and soft boot, special interior trim accents, 17-inch wheels with 16 spokes and a cashmere accented hub ring to match the paint, and a numbered commemorative plaque mounted inside the glove compartment.
Built on the same platform as the Lincoln LS, the Thunderbird's V8 engine can only be described as "silky smooth". Steering, road feel and response are also very impressive. But if you're looking for "thrills", this car probably isn't for you. If you're looking for "elegance" and "style" in a hardtop convertible, the Thunderbird may be just right.
No doubt, the Thunderbird is one nice car. We had a 2003 here not too long ago and were indeed impressed by the smooth and quiet ride as well as the handling. And as a "looker" ... yep, it was turning quite a few heads. For those considering buying one, we can suggest a number of ways to help you save.
How To Buy A Used Ford Thunderbird At The Best Price:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used Thunderbird at the lowest price, even at wholesale.
ONE - Car Auctions:
First, you can check for used Thunderbirds at local public car auctions in your area. While this method isn't for everyone and will likely take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed some truly outstanding buys for those who shop these events. This article covers how to locate these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage.
TWO - Spot Wholesale Opportunities On Dealer Lots:
The technique explained here is incredibly effective and involves learning how to identify high quality but "price-distressed" used Thunderbirds for sale right on dealer lots, ones they are extemely desperate to sell and potentially ready to unload.
THREE - Set Up A Dealer Competition:
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. See the details in this Used Car Buying Guide. It's just amazing what happens to prices when you force dealers to fight among each other for your sale.
Also ...
If You're Interested In A "Brand New" Car, there are some great deals to be had right now if you know how to do it.
