1986 Ford Thunderbird Elan review from North America
"Surprising comfort and performance. A delight to own"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Alternator, ignition module. The hardest thing about owning an older car is praying it wouldn't breakdown during the rush hour stop and go. Being a motor club member is a must!
General comments?
Surprising comfort and performance. Not much horsepower, (stock, only 150hp for a 5.0, that will shortly be remedied) but the torque is nice.(270 @ 2000 rpm).
Being in the heart of Silicon Valley, older cars are harder and harder to find. I mean Porches and BMW's have a waiting list! And, the new front-drive sedans all look alike. I feel proud to own this historic older car with it's non-offending muscular looks and power. But most of all, no more huge new car payments!
Recommended reviews
| A beautiful lawn ornament in hibernation |
|
| A nice-looker, but a definite lemon |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1986 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 302 V-8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 75000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 105000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota 1996 4Runner |
| Date of Entry | 2nd August, 2000 |