Head gaskets at 160,000.
Anti-lock Brake System Master Cylinder at a cost of $1600 including labour. A used Master Cylinder was $1200 from the wreckers. A new Ford unit was $3440 + taxes. I bought the used.
Complete brake caliper, rotor and shoe overhaul at 255,000 km.
Battery blew up at 232,000 km.
New alternator at 236,000 km.
Right side wheel bearings replaced at 263,000 km.
Tie rods replaced at 242,000 km.
Driver side door sagging and currently needs new hinge pin or bushings.
Power steering line wore a hole in the oil pan after a rubber bushing rotted.
In over 3 years, including purchase price and regular service costs and many repairs, I have calculated that I have spent in excess of $24,000.
The car rides beautifully on the highway with generous top end.
It offers a great deal of unique options including a self-dimming rear view mirror, auto off and on headlights, power antenna, climate control, power drivers seat, power sport mirror adjust and leather steering wheel.
I would not buy this car again, however, given my investment, I will be keeping it for some time. I will not trade it if I was to purchase a new vehicle, again, due to my investment into it.
You bought the car used. Who knows how it was treated by the previous owner (s). You had almost 170,000 miles on it at the time you reported this. ALL cars wear out. You can't blame it on the Tbird or on Ford. Used cars are a gamble.