1986 Ford Thunderbird Elan review from North America
"Beautiful cruiser"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A/C was problematic, ended up with a hole in the condenser. After the original serpentine belt wore out the others have mostly squeaked. replaced several alterators.
General comments?
I loved this car when I first saw the body style in 1983. I bought an 86 at the end of the production run and I've had it 22 years! It isn't my everyday car any longer, but it was for a long time and it is a very comfortable and easy to drive car.
The 3.8L V-6 is underpowered which always aggravated me. But I loved this car and it's still in my driveway looking like its going 60 MPH standing still.
Recommended reviews
| A beautiful lawn ornament in hibernation |
|
| A nice-looker, but a definite lemon |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1986 |
| Year of manufacture | 1986 |
| First year of ownership | 1986 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 64 miles |
| Most recent distance | 117000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Chevette |
| Date of Entry | 13th February, 2008 |