2003 Ford Thunderbird in Bridgewater, NJ - $19,766

As a modern interpretation of the classic roadsters of the '50s and '60s, the rear-drive Ford Thunderbird pays homage with exterior/interior design cues and performance harking back to the first T-birds of the 1950s and early 1960s. Developed in the automaker's "Living Legends" design studio, the two-seat T-Bird is manufactured in Ford's Wixom, Mich., assembly plant.

The legendary convertible is offered in Deluxe and Premium trim levels. A limited-production Pacific Coast model features a standard removable fiberglass hardtop with electric rear window defroster, soft top boot, leather and suede bucket seats, unique 16-spoke micro machined aluminum wheels and numbered plate in the glove box.

The fast-acting rag top hardware features a novel quick release mechanism. Drop the top quickly in three steps -- press the button, pull the latch and hit the power switch -- with the vehicle in park.

Motive power is provided by a sophisticated all-aluminum 3.9L V-8 engine lifted from the Lincoln LS. A smooth-shifting five-speed automatic gearbox with overdrive transfers torque to the pavement. No other drivetrain options are available.

Changes for 2004 start with available exterior colors -- with Merlot, Light Ice Blue, Mist Green and Platinum Silver added to the palette with Torch Red and Evening Black. Newly styled seats with leather seating surfaces, improved map lighting, new universal three-button garage door opener and an available Light Sand interior appearance package round out major changes.

On the road, the small V-8 delivers plenty of power. Shifts are smooth and seamless. Handling is predictable, and solid and assuring at speed. Starting with the underpinnings from the vault-solid Lincoln LS sedan, the Thunderbird features an integral 76-millimeter rear cross-car brace and three bolted-on X-braces to improve structural integrity.

The four-wheel independent suspension consists of a short- and long-arm front suspension with coil springs and tubular stabilizer bar. The rear suspension also includes a short- and long-arm suspension with coil springs and solid stabilizer bar, mounted on an isolated rear subframe. Twin-tube, single damper shock absorbers perform the duty at each corner.

Inside the cabin, modern renditions continue. Displays and controls of today are easy to use -- with a nod toward the first T-Bird. The driver enjoys a good view of the road. Improved leather seating provides good support and comfort. The center console supports two cupholders and an armrest with storage. The interior boasts of two power points designed to support electronic equipment such as cell phones or laptop computers.

Brushed aluminum accents on the doors and dashboard add to the interior experience. There is 1.8 cubic feet of interior storage with a small rear shelf behind driver and passenger for carrying small items.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 107.2; overall length: 186.3; width: 72.0; height: 52.1 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.9L DOHC V-6 -- 280 hp at 6,000 rpm and 286 lbs/ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Transmission: Five-speed automatic with overdrive.

EPA fuel economy: 17 city/23 hwy., using premium unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 8.5 cubic feet.

Safety features

Automatic headlamps, automatic power door locks, perimeter anti-theft system, remote keyless entry, dual front airbags, side impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with antilock, electronic brake force distribution and traction control.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2004 Ford Thunderbird convertible starts at $37,195 for Deluxe, $38,240 for Premium and $43,390 for the limited-edition Pacific Coast model. Destination charges add $605.

As tested

2004 Thunderbird Pacific Coast roadster

Exterior color: Monterey Mist Green

Interior color: Light/dark ash

Tires: Michelin Pilot HX MXM4

Tire size: P235/50R17

Base price $43,390

Destination charge $ 605



Total as tested $43,995

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