Ford Thunderbird (1989 to 1997)
The tenth generation Ford Thunderbird was manufactured from 1989 to 1997. Before this, it had been redesigned and was constructed on a Fox platform. Unfortunately that model was not a big hit with consumers, so in 1989, Ford completely changed the design, both inside and out. It was now built on a mid-sized MN12 platform which offered a wheelbase that was nine inches longer that the previous model, even though the body was slightly shorter. The body design became more aerodynamic and was offered only at a two-door coupe. It also offered four wheel independent suspension and Macpherson struts in front which made for a smooth ride and great handling. This generation of Ford Thunderbird was also only one of two vehicles in North America that offered this type of suspension.
The bottom two models were somewhat sluggish and underpowered since the vehicle weighed more than 3500 lbs, but only had a 3.8L V6, producing 140hp. All levels of trim offered four speed automatic overdrive transmission. Despite it being a heavy car, its shape made it relatively economic at 27mpg on the highway.
During this reign of the Thunderbird, the Super Coupe was offered. This was a high performance version of the ordinary Thunderbird and came with a supercharged version of the 3.8L V6 engine that produced 210hp and 315lbs/ft of torque and was offered in four speed automatic, or five speed manual transmission. There were other elements that set it apart from standard Thunderbirds in that it came with 16″ alloy wheels with tires that were considered height performance as well as anti-lock brakes, locking differential and tighter handling. Because of these combined features, it rated as the Motor Trend’s Car of the Year in 1989. The Ford Thunderbird SC was offered for sale as other high performance cars from General Motors were also on the market, but it was clear that the Ford Thunderbird Super Coupe was a viable high performance American automobile.
One of the biggest changes to the 10th generation Ford Thunderbird was the replacement of the 4.9L engine with Ford’s newer modular 4.6L V8 Single Overhead Cam engine. This engine change took place in 1994, at the same time that a slight redesign was offered and a new 4 speed automatic transmission was also an option. During this refresh, the lines were softened and it was given a much newer and more aerodynamic look.
Although the 10th generation Ford Thunderbird was a great car, Ford began to reduce it’s investment in the car which included terminating production of the Ford Thunderbird Super Coupe, the high performance version of the car.. It was then decided that production of the Ford Thunderbird would cease and the very last Thunderbird of this generation rolled off the assembly line in early September of 1997. With years of history behind it, this car was laid to rest and then resurrected yet another time in 2002, with a completely new look based on historic designs.
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