1996 Ford Thunderbird LX Sport review from North America

Mass Air sensor failed at about 75,000 miles. I replaced with with a salvage item and it's lasted well.

The plastic intake manifold cracked at about 80,000 and had to be replaced. Total was over $500, parts and labor.

Heater core started leaking at 90,000. Cost estimate for repair was $700 - $800. The entire dash, console, steering column and etc. have to be removed - over 8 hours by the book.

This is my third Thunderbird. I started with an '86 Turbo Coupe, then moved on to a '93 LX V-6. I liked both of the predecessors so much, I bought the '96 LX Sport OHC V-8 in '96.

With the exception of the heater and intake manifold, the car has been essentially trouble-free, save brakes shocks, and alignment.

So, the penultimate Thunderbird wasn't a two-person convert? Nor was it a three-ton boat from the 70's. Ford had a very good design with the 90's T-Birds - good size (a little long on the front overhang), comfort, performance (with the V-8), and reasonable economy of operation. The car can take four people - two in real comfort and two in adequate comfort - for long excursions on the highway or back road at a modest cost.

The resale on the 'Bird really stinks - if you're an owner. It's great if you're looking for a used personal luxury car. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a low-mile used '93-'97 T-Bird with the V-8.