16,353 original miles. Two tops, optional two-tone interior, chrome wheels. Everything works, drives like a new car, great color combination. An attractive late-model T-Bird that's the ideal choice for the person who wants a collector car without any hassles. <BR><BR> The last 20 years have also been a reminder that special cars remain special, and the love with which these latest Thunderbirds are treated really shows in cars like this Torch Red 2002 example. These were collectors' items almost from the start, so very few ever saw day driver duty and that is the case here—with only 16,353 original miles, this car was exclusively a sunny weather driver. The bright red paint sizzles in the sunlight and it's exactly the right color for Ford's sporting two-seater, both then and now. Retro cues include the chrome grille with twin fog lights that emulate the original bumper, a hood scoop, and the twin afterburner-style taillights out back. In between you get a sleek, clean, and largely uncluttered ragtop that always attracts appreciative stares. This car has spent much of its life with an experienced collector and has always been treated as something special. It gets just as much attention as his vintage cars without the hassles. And its status as a collector piece shows, because there are no major chips or scratches, certainly no rust, and it has never been hit or damaged. Just a clean car ready to enjoy. <BR><BR> This particular Thunderbird has the optional two-tone interior with the $1000 Premium package that really makes it look flashy. Black and red leather with silver dashboard accents and turquoise-like inlays on the steering wheel and gauges really look awesome. The upholstery is in fantastic shape and the carpets have been protected by floor mats since new, so they're unmarked. Everything was standard on these cars, including power windows, seats, locks, and mirrors, automatic climate control, cruise control, and a powerful AM/FM/CD stereo system that sounds great even at speed with the top down. Everything works, of course, and the black canvas power convertible top powers itself up and down with the touch of a button, unlike the original (which was a real wrestling match). There's also a decent-sized trunk in back that's perfectly adequate for two people on an adventure. This car also includes the factory soft boot and the optional $2000 removeable porthole hardtop. <BR><BR> A 3.9-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 engine was the only choice in these Thunderbirds, and it's a good one. It's the same smooth V8 that lived in the Lincoln LS, making 252 horsepower and 267 pounds of torque—enough to make the T-Bird feel downright quick. It's not quite as pretty as the original Y-block with its finned aluminum valve covers but with modern electronic controls, it fires instantly and idles perfectly every time, no matter the weather. No 1950s car could ever do that. It has obviously been properly maintained but as with most modern cars, it really doesn't need much more than gas and oil and the last 20 years have proven that these cars are reliable machines. And having served in a Lincoln, it's impeccably smooth. The engine bay is extremely clean, showing zero signs of foul weather or neglect and parts are still readily available today so it's easy to keep it in top shape. <BR><BR> The only transmission available in the Thunderbird was a 5-speed automatic that's a good match for the car's relaxed demeanor—quick shifts around town but a tall, relaxed overdrive for high-speed cruising. The suspension is fully independent, which gives it great reflexes and there's a big disc brake at all four corners. The dual exhaust system offers a muted V8 soundtrack, enough to be a little muscular but never overbearing and the twin chrome tips out back look awesome peeking out from under the rear bumper. The car is wearing optional 17-inch chrome wheels and 235/50/17 Michelin radials, so it rides and handles superbly. <BR><BR> If you're someone who's looking for a special interest car that's welcome at almost any show but you're not really into maintaining an old car or driving a garden-variety Mustang, the late-model Thunderbird is an ideal choice. Stylish, comfortable, and fun to drive, it is as appealing today as the original was in 1955. And with all the modern conveniences, it asks for nothing from the driver beyond a tank of gas, a sunny sky, and an open road. Call today! <BR><BR> Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.
