1986 Ford Thunderbird Hardtop
With slumping sales of the eight generation, Ford implemented a redesign that not only proved to be a success, but also created one of the most recognizable cars from the mid-80's. Aerodynamics came into play for Thunderbird and for the first time, rounded body panels and a raked nose became part of the car's profile. During the design's five year run, 885,745 units were produced and the tenth generation which ran from '89-'97, borrowed heavily from the Gen 9 design.
For consignment, a 1986 Ford Thunderbird hardtop showing 12,500 actual miles. This is a one owner car that was intended to be the family car but was then stored in winters, then finally relegated to fair weathered days only. The result of this evolution from daily driver to weekend cruiser is likely one of the cleanest Gen 9 Thunderbirds you're likely to come across.
Exterior
Regatta Blue Metallic is a lovely color for this well kept Thunderbird and is augmented by a darker blue pinstripe that encircles the car. A wide band of black molding also wraps around the car taking in the amber turn lights up front. While we're up here, note the distinctive staggered position of the dual headlights, moving up as they move towards the center to the leading edge which becomes the narrow grille in its chrome frame. In contrast, the horizontal tail lights are flush to the body, adorned with a Thunderbird logo and transition to the reverse lights that flank the license plate. The Thunderbird logo appears on the wide sweeping C-pillars which flow seamlessly into the rear quarter and short decklid. 15-inch ten hole wheels are in great shape and the car is equipped with Ford's keypad entry. We scoured the entire exterior and could not find any glaring imperfections.
Interior
Blue vinyl over blue carpet make up the super clean door panels with the only imperfection being a missing bolt cover on the door pull. Bucket seats combine blue velour with striped inserts and along with the rear bench, present as showroom fresh. In the 80's, before airbags were required, manufacturers were able to take liberties with steering wheel design and this is apparent on the Thunderbird's distinctive A-shaped hub that leaves the upper rim of the wheel open. It's also a time when instrument panels became space age with digital dash readouts and green backlighting now synonymous with the 80's. Toggles, dials, and switches abound on the car including a seven band equalizer over the AM/FM/Cassette player in the center stack which in turn tops the simple A/C panel and ash tray door. Just beyond the armrest is a switch filled panel to control mirrors, seats, and windows. Blue carpet covers the floor and a blue headliner rises above, all in excellent condition.
Drivetrain
The Thunderbird is not only built on the Mustang platform, but also houses a 5.0 liter V8 rated at 150 horsepower, fuel injected and backed by an AOD 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. Power is sent to the 7.5" rear axle with 2.73 gears. This is pre plastic cover days for engines, but the 5.0 intake manifold is familiar and distinctive for the times and the engine bay appearance in this car supports low miles. Meanwhile, we have power disc brakes up front and power drums in the back.
Undercarriage
Undersides often tell the story of mileage as well, and the bottom side here tells the story of a lightly driven car. There is an even coat of surface rust, the kind caused by time alone, not through driving in rain. But beyond that, the underside is clean and barely shows use. There's even a wax pencil marking from the assembly plant still on the rear differential. We have coil springs at both ends with a four link in the back and the car has been lowered slightly with the use of an FRPP M5300 spring kit. The single exhaust consists of original equipment and exists under the car in back.
Drive-Ability
We step into the time machine and find ourselves in 1986. Fresh out of high school, this would have been an adult's car, a personal luxury coupe at a time when two doors were more common than sedans. My, how times have changed! This car had no problem starting and delivered smooth acceleration and a smooth ride, the lowered stance delivering improved handling while the inside delivers fine ergonomics. All functions work on this fine, feathered friend, including the digital dash! While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.
You'll want to be an early bird on this Thunderbird because there are surely people waiting in the wings for the opportunity to fly off in a low mileage car from the 80's. Sure, Radwood is a slam dunk, but you'll also be well received at typical car shows. The once common Thunderbird is a rare sight, and when you do see them, they usually have a few tattered feathers. Not this one. It's as clean and sharp as an eagle's talon. Get a grip and make the call today!
1FABP46FXGH253917
1-USA
F-Ford Motor Company
A-Passenger Car
B-Manual Belts
P46-Thunderbird 2 Door Hardtop
F-302ci CFI V8
X-Check Digit
G-1986
H-Lorain, OH Assy Plant
253917-Sequential Unit Number
DOOR STICKER
PAINT 3W-Regatta Blue Metallic
DSO 16-Philadelphia
BODY 63D-Thunderbird 2 Door Hardtop
TRIM HB-Regatta Blue Cloth Split Bench
RADIO G-AM/FM/Cassette
AXLE 8-Ford 7.5" 2.73 Conventional
TRANS T-AOD 4-Speed Auto
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
