Ford Thunderbird News 1956-2005
First Generation 1955-1957
The Ford Thunderbird was introduced in February 1953 as a response to Chevrolet's new sports car, the Corvette, which was publicly unveiled in prototype form just a month before.
Second Generation 1958-1960
Although the 1955–57 Thunderbird was a success, Ford executives—particularly Robert McNamara—were concerned that the car's position as a two-seater limited its sales potential. As a result, the car was redesigned as a four-seater for 1958.
Third Generation 1961-1963
The Thunderbird was redesigned for 1961 with styling that gave the car a unique bullet-like body side appearance.
Fourth Generation 1964-1966
For 1964 the Thunderbird was restyled in favor of a more squared-off appearance, which was mostly evident when viewing the car from the side or rear.
Fifth Generation 1967-1971
1In 1967, a larger Thunderbird with luxury appointments more in line with a Lincoln was built.
Sixth Generation 1972-1976
The sixth generation of the Thunderbird debuted in the fall of 1971 as a 1972 model. It was the largest Thunderbird ever produced.
Seventh Generation 1977-1979
For the 1977 model year, the Thunderbird was shifted to the smaller chassis, but it still looked large.
Eighth Generation 1980-1982
Reflecting a further industry-wide adoption of smaller vehicle designs in the interest of improved fuel efficiency and emissions compliance, the Thunderbird was redesigned for 1980.
Ninth Generation 1983-1988
In response to the lackluster reception of the eighth-generation 1980–1982 Thunderbird, Ford executed a significant redesign for 1983.
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