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Bring Back The Thunderbird (Mustang derived)


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smokinbird.jpg

I miss my bird!!!!

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I miss my Tbirds too!

 

I remember right before the 1989 Tbird was released. I really thought it was great upon seeing all the spy shots and previews. At that time I had my fill of Camaros and I really wanted to see a modern coupe body style that was opposed to the boxy upright Mustangs of the time. I thought the Tbird hit the nail on the head though I never did get around to buying one new. I waited until about 1994 to buy a then new Mustang convertible and I was happy with that. In 1997 I sold it during a rough time, bought a used 1985 Tbird 5.0 and drove it a few years to 245,000 miles until replaced it with a 1989 Tbird as a daily driver. The 89 was a V6 and nothing really special but it handled and drove very well and I enjoyed repairing the damaged front end with the 1996-97 style.

 

Every once in a while I'll come across a late model four seater in decent condition and damn I always wish I had the cash. The best one I found several monts ago was a very low mileage 1997 V8 in laser red with a sunroof. But damn I have no cash!

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I still have my T-Bird.

 

Very nice! It's interesting that year the front looked somewhat related to the Mustang but with four headlamps...

 

Right now I have a preference to edgier forms so the squarish look of the 66 is nice. That one has always been one of my favorites, particularly since I have one of the 1/24 scale models that I put together which I have had a long time.

 

There are so many different Thunderbird styles over the years and so many of them are interesting and each has it's own charm.

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I like what you are doing with the Thunderbird. Does anyone know if a "new" Thunderbird is even in the works? Or is Ford to low on money to even think about one. How will the new gas milage laws affect it.

 

Because of the CAFE laws coming, and because I'd like not to give my money away, I'd like to see a smaller roadster Thunderbird be made. Plus I think a lighter 2-seater would be more fun to drive! Folding hardtop and 5star safety ratings would boost its' sales too.

 

It'd have the D35/6-speed trans as the standard, with the GT getting the V-8. As a roadster it would be rather light for the powertrain, thus I'd like to see the "D" trans selection put the engine & trans ECMs in a reduced output "economy" mode (that will be used for the EPA test cycle). Putting the trans selector in "S"port mode will tell the engine ECM to go to full power and tell the trans. ECM to be more aggressive.

 

I think this would be a fantastic little cruiser. I'd like one for my daily commuter.

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Because of the CAFE laws coming, and because I'd like not to give my money away, I'd like to see a smaller roadster Thunderbird be made. Plus I think a lighter 2-seater would be more fun to drive! Folding hardtop and 5star safety ratings would boost its' sales too.

 

It'd have the D35/6-speed trans as the standard, with the GT getting the V-8. As a roadster it would be rather light for the powertrain, thus I'd like to see the "D" trans selection put the engine & trans ECMs in a reduced output "economy" mode (that will be used for the EPA test cycle). Putting the trans selector in "S"port mode will tell the engine ECM to go to full power and tell the trans. ECM to be more aggressive.

 

I think this would be a fantastic little cruiser. I'd like one for my daily commuter.

 

So something about this size (see Ford 54 picture) w/ Thunderbird cues (see Thunderbird pictures)?

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Edited by rmc523
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So something about this size (see Ford 54 picture) w/ Thunderbird cues (see Thunderbird pictures)?

 

Maybe that "54" is a little larger than I'd hoped. I'd like something reminiscent of the original 55 Thunderbird with some of today's aerodynamic looks and style and be able to compete with some of its' modern competitors. The 2002-2005 retro-Birds were nice, but I'm thinking along the lines of a more modern appearance with a fair amount of homage to the originals. I really like the work watchdevil and timm55 did with their Iosis & MKR versions, even though I'd want a 2-seater.

 

torch8.jpg

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[My hopeful] Thunderbird's modern competitors:

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9ff-Porsche-911-997-Turbo-Cabriolet_07_05.jpg

oct25z4_4lg.jpg

Mercedes_SLK_350.jpg

Edited by joihan777
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Maybe that "54" is a little larger than I'd hoped. I'd like something reminiscent of the original 55 Thunderbird with some of today's aerodynamic looks and style and be able to compete with some of its' modern competitors. The 2002-2005 retro-Birds were nice, but I'm thinking along the lines of a more modern appearance with a fair amount of homage to the originals. I really like the work watchdevil and timm55 did with their Iosis & MKR versions, even though I'd want a 2-seater.

 

torch8.jpg

55b_wals.jpg

 

[My hopeful] Thunderbird's modern competitors:

11-2007-chevrolet-corvette-z06.jpg

9ff-Porsche-911-997-Turbo-Cabriolet_07_05.jpg

oct25z4_4lg.jpg

Mercedes_SLK_350.jpg

 

oh i didn't realize you meant a Z4/SLK type competitor.

 

What do you think of my Tbird design?

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Because of the CAFE laws coming, and because I'd like not to give my money away, I'd like to see a smaller roadster Thunderbird be made. Plus I think a lighter 2-seater would be more fun to drive! Folding hardtop and 5star safety ratings would boost its' sales too.

 

It'd have the D35/6-speed trans as the standard, with the GT getting the V-8. As a roadster it would be rather light for the powertrain, thus I'd like to see the "D" trans selection put the engine & trans ECMs in a reduced output "economy" mode (that will be used for the EPA test cycle). Putting the trans selector in "S"port mode will tell the engine ECM to go to full power and tell the trans. ECM to be more aggressive.

 

I think this would be a fantastic little cruiser. I'd like one for my daily commuter.

 

I think there is a need for a fuel efficient small sporty car that doesn't make you feel like you have to drive a clown car or shoe box on roller skates. It could be a coupe or roadster and it can be a 4-cyl. I doubt it would be appropriate to call it a Mustang or Thunderbird. The eflex concept was a good example of what could be sexy and sporty and at the same time affordable and efficient to own. I had been thinking of buying a Mustang. I drove one for a week during Christmas and while I loved the car, it was a gas hog even with a V6. I commute to work 40 miles round trip each day so I apprciated the much better fuel mileage of my Cavalier. I have not made a decision yet as the timing seems to be off for me, but the fuel economy is definitely something to consider if I have to fill the tank more than once a week.

 

The Focus totally repulses me as far as style looking like an Escort that was facelifted as many times as Joan Rivers. I swear if the new Fiesta was here now in the US with a 3-door hachback I would consider it.

 

I am not buying another car until I find something I like that fits right...

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oh i didn't realize you meant a Z4/SLK type competitor.

 

What do you think of my Tbird design?

 

Well, I like the front edge shape, and I think the rear quarter has a nice look but it's a bit 'bulbous', it reminds me of a 80's era Porsche 944. I think the wheels are just a bit too big and the canopy too small, rather like a Chrysler 300. I do like that the door is not longer than it is tall but I don't think it should extend into the rocker panel. Also, the bottom of the wheel arches shouldn't curve in or you'd be in for a rude surprise the next time you catch some air or hit a nasty pothole.

 

Generally speaking, I like the 'feel' of it, just I don't like some of the particular dimensions/ cues. BTW what is that past the door handle?

 

Lastly, I'm not a big fan of the porthole/vent/ badge... it's kinda...loud? Maybe something more discreet or svelte?

 

Please don't be offended, these are just my opinions. I've always preferred Q-Cars as opposed to pimped out rides, so I'm rather conservative with my designs.

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The Focus totally repulses me as far as style looking like an Escort that was facelifted as many times as Joan Rivers.
:hysterical::hysterical::hysterical:

 

 

I think there is a need for a fuel efficient small sporty car that doesn't make you feel like you have to drive a clown car or shoe box on roller skates. It could be a coupe or roadster and it can be a 4-cyl. I doubt it would be appropriate to call it a Mustang or Thunderbird. The eflex concept was a good example of what could be sexy and sporty and at the same time affordable and efficient to own. I had been thinking of buying a Mustang. I drove one for a week during Christmas and while I loved the car, it was a gas hog even with a V6. I commute to work 40 miles round trip each day so I apprciated the much better fuel mileage of my Cavalier. I have not made a decision yet as the timing seems to be off for me, but the fuel economy is definitely something to consider if I have to fill the tank more than once a week.

I agree with that. Lotta folks want fun and efficient cars. Just because it is primarily for commuting doesn't mean it can't be a fun weekender either. I think the main reason the Sky/Solstice is declining in sales (aside from the overall US economy status) is that it is just too darn small. Same for the Miata, it's a fine car with a deserved 'fun' status, but it's rather snug and drinks premium fuel. Gosh, where does it say a roadster can't have a few inches of space behind the seats for reclining or a small shelf!

 

Whereas the Retro-Bird was a bit big, the Miata is a bit small. That's why I'd rather have a slightly larger than a Miata roadster that uses a V6 with economy/sport modes and also comes with V8s for the GT & SVT versions. To me the Mustang is my second choice only because it is a bit too big/thirsty for my needs.

 

 

I am not buying another car until I find something I like that fits right...

I hear ya. Luckily I won't need a new 'personal' car for 18-24mos. So I hope in the meantime Ford manages to impress me with something sporty, open, more efficient and smaller than a Mustang but still manages to be comfortable and stylish.

Even if it costs a bit more. :shades:

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:hysterical::hysterical::hysterical:

To me the Mustang is my second choice only because it is a bit too big/thirsty for my needs.

I hear ya. Luckily I won't need a new 'personal' car for 18-24mos. So I hope in the meantime Ford manages to impress me with something sporty, open, more efficient and smaller than a Mustang but still manages to be comfortable and stylish.

Even if it costs a bit more. :shades:

 

I really loved the Mustang I drove the week of Christmas. I ended up putting 700 miles on a demo the dealer let me drive it for a few days while I was negociating a deal on a white car with black stripes that they were going to have dealer transferred. They dicked out and asked me for $600 more on down payment and I said no and walked with my old Cavalier. They don't want to sell you anything unless they can rape the last dime out of you. Then i remembered how I felt when they raped me on my Ford Escape at the same dealership, but I took the deal anyway. I tell you I am really sick of Ford's dismal showroom sales experience after shopping a few dealerships. I am seriouslly considering buying a used Mustang from a non-Ford dealer to save some money and get a better dealership experience elsewhere that I cannot get at any Ford dealer around here. Right now I am putting the whole notion to rest for a while because I really fell in love with the Mustang and it was a disappointment to have to walk away and keep from geting screwed.

 

The Mustang however was surprisingly a gas hog. I don't remember my Ford Escape sucking that much gas with a V6... Nor my 99 Mustang or 89 Thunderbird which both had V6's...

 

I still have hopes for a revived Thunderbird one day, but reality is that it will probably cost much more than a Mustang. Even Mustangs are topping out over 30K now. Base V6 Mustangs cost as much as GTs and convertibles of several years ago.

Edited by Watchdevil
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Well, I like the front edge shape, and I think the rear quarter has a nice look but it's a bit 'bulbous', it reminds me of a 80's era Porsche 944. I think the wheels are just a bit too big and the canopy too small, rather like a Chrysler 300. I do like that the door is not longer than it is tall but I don't think it should extend into the rocker panel. Also, the bottom of the wheel arches shouldn't curve in or you'd be in for a rude surprise the next time you catch some air or hit a nasty pothole.

 

Generally speaking, I like the 'feel' of it, just I don't like some of the particular dimensions/ cues. BTW what is that past the door handle?

 

Lastly, I'm not a big fan of the porthole/vent/ badge... it's kinda...loud? Maybe something more discreet or svelte?

 

Please don't be offended, these are just my opinions. I've always preferred Q-Cars as opposed to pimped out rides, so I'm rather conservative with my designs.

 

Thanks.

 

What are you referring to past the door handle?

Do you mean vents in general or this particular one? Maybe something smaller would help

 

I'm not at all offended, I thank you for your criticism and opinions, b/c to me, that's how I can get better.

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I really loved the Mustang I drove the week of Christmas. I ended up putting 700 miles on a demo the dealer let me drive it for a few days while I was negociating a deal on a white car with black stripes that they were going to have dealer transferred. They dicked out and asked me for $600 more on down payment and I said no and walked with my old Cavalier. They don't want to sell you anything unless they can rape the last dime out of you. Then i remembered how I felt when they raped me on my Ford Escape at the same dealership, but I took the deal anyway. I tell you I am really sick of Ford's dismal showroom sales experience after shopping a few dealerships. I am seriouslly considering buying a used Mustang from a non-Ford dealer to save some money and get a better dealership experience elsewhere that I cannot get at any Ford dealer around here. Right now I am putting the whole notion to rest for a while because I really fell in love with the Mustang and it was a disappointment to have to walk away and keep from geting screwed.

 

The Mustang however was surprisingly a gas hog. I don't remember my Ford Escape sucking that much gas with a V6... Nor my 99 Mustang or 89 Thunderbird which both had V6's...

 

I still have hopes for a revived Thunderbird one day, but reality is that it will probably cost much more than a Mustang. Even Mustangs are topping out over 30K now. Base V6 Mustangs cost as much as GTs and convertibles of several years ago.

 

Did it being a gas hog have anything to do with your right foot? That could've affected your fuel economy results a bit, LOL.

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Did it being a gas hog have anything to do with your right foot? That could've affected your fuel economy results a bit, LOL.

 

 

Most probably because I have an '05 Mustang and it is great on gas. But, of course, if you stomp on it, just like any other car, gulp gulp gulp...

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