AutoHunter Spotlight: 2003 Ford Thunderbird

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 36,000-mile 2003 Ford Thunderbird. The T-bird is powered by a 3.9-liter V8 and backed by a SelectShift five-speed automatic transmission. Features include 17-inch chrome wheels, heated seats, AM/FM stereo with CD changer, and power-operated black convertible top with Torch Red removable hardtop, among other items. Finished in Torch Red over a black and red leather interior, this final-generation Thunderbird comes with window sticker, service records, hardtop cart and cover, clean CARFAX report, and clear title.

Back when there was a flurry of retro-themed cars, the Thunderbird returned to the scene in the summer of 2001. For those disappointed when the model became a four-seater, they had to wait 53-odd years for their wishes to come true. Of course, none of this could have happened without shared components, so it was in the Thunderbird’s favor that Ford’s DEW platform (think Lincoln LS) was in the pipeline. Alas, after plenty of public excitement and strong initial sales, the Thunderbird lost favor with the buying public, and it was discontinued for 2006.

The exterior is finished in the original Torch Red paint. The power-operated black top features a heated glass rear window and rests under a black boot when retracted. Other notable items include fog lights, body-colored mirrors, polished dual exhaust outlets. The selling dealer shows the power windows and the exterior lights functioning in a video on the auction page.

A set of 17-inch chromed cast aluminum wheels and 235/50R17 tires keep you connected to the boulevard.

The interior features the Torch Red Partial Interior Color Accent Package, which added red inserts to the power-adjustable black leather seats and red elements to the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter. Additional equipment includes full power accessories, power tilt and telescoping steering column, dual-zone automatic climate control, Audiophile AM/FM stereo with six-CD changer, and steering wheel with audio controls.

The instrument panel consists of a 7,000-rpm tachometer, 160-mph speedometer, and gauges for the coolant temperature and fuel level. The digital odometer shows 36,850 miles, which is in line with the CARFAX report, which also shows an accident-free history.

The 32-valve, twin-cam 3.9-liter V8 was rated at 280 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque. Output is transferred to the rear wheels through a SelectShift five-speed automatic overdrive transmission. A video on the auction page shows the car being road-tested.

Stopping is performed by power ABS brakes with ventilated rotors. Handling is assisted by a four-wheel independent suspension and all-speed traction control. Again, you will find a video of the underbody on the auction page.