1985 Ford Thunderbird Coupe review from North America
"A sporty gentleman's ride"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The transmission died when I let it run dry, I learned an expensive lesson by never checking the fluid.
The only other things I replaced on the car where the general tune-up items and things I wanted to change for my own pleasure.
(K&N air filter, high performance spark plugs, high performance wires, high performance ignition coil,
Flo-master type exhaust system)
General comments?
The 1983-86 Thunderbird coupe is one of my favorite cars. I have owned 20+ cars. I have recently bought my 3rd Tbird. I drove this car everyday, everywhere until someone turned directly in front of me, causing a T-bone collision and totaled the car.
This car had plenty of power after adding some minor medications that everyone should add to their car to improve fuel economy.
The interior is very comfortable and well laid out, and the car is very responsive. This made the car a joy to drive. I found this car to be very reliable if you treat it well and don't beat her hard.
Hence, I put more miles on the Tbirds than any other American vehicle that I have owned. These include a Lincoln, Caddy, 2 Impalas, 4 Ford trucks, 2 Buicks, Camaro, Grand-Am, Firebird, even 2 Dodges, 3 Thunderbirds, and a few imports that I don't care to name.
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| I miss my thunderbird |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1990 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1995 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 0/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 90000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 180000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Camaro |
| Date of Entry | 28th August, 2003 |