

Despite the fact that many have far lower mileage than other cars of similar age, time has taken its toll, and as is the case with all used cars, components and parts break down. Loyalty to the 2002-2005 Thunderbird remains strong among those who purchased one new, and the two-seat convertible has built a new following among the many thousands that have purchased a pre-owned T-Bird.Īs these Thunderbirds have gotten older, however, problems with repairs, maintenance and the scarcity of replacement parts have become an increasing challenge for owners. Then, despite initial plans to continue production with a 2006 model, and amid weakening demand, Ford cancelled production with the 2005 Thunderbird. Production of the new Thunderbird continued through the Summer of 2005. Some early buyers paid $ 5,000, $ 10,000, $ 15,000 or more over sticker price for the privilege of being among the first to own one. Anxious buyers flocked to Ford showrooms and placed deposits on the new T-Birds and waited a year or more before taking delivery of their new cars.įord promoted the new Thunderbird aggressively, and some dealers, well aware of the huge demand for this new car, added substantial mark-ups to the MSRP of $ 41,995. In the years since its first introduction, Ford built a total of just 68,098 2002-2005 Thunderbirds, in addition to a number of concept show cars. Since its debut at the 1999 Detroit International Auto Show, there have been thousands of articles, books and news stories about the 11th generation Thunderbird, the first two-seat convertible T-Bird since the now classic 1957. It’s been over 15 years since for first of the 11th generation 2002 Thunderbirds rolled off the production line at Ford’s Wixom factory.

The 2002-2005 Thunderbird – Time to Buy or Time to Sell?
