The re-launched version was a two-seat convertible with some of the original Thunderbird’s styling elements. But the company launched a retro version of the T-Bird to capitalize on the nostalgia of auto buffs. Sales of the Thunderbird began to drop in the 1990s and Ford ultimately decided to discontinue the car in 1997. Kennedy would include 50 Thunderbirds in his 1961 inaugural procession, and the car had a starring role in a few classic films including “American Graffiti’’ from 1973 and “Thelma and Louise’’ from 1991. Over the years, the Thunderbird would make its mark on pop culture with the Beach Boys referencing the iconic car in their song, “Fun Fun Fun’’ (till her daddy takes T-Bird away). Ford introduced a four-seat version with a larger trunk in 1958 to appease customers who thought the car was too small. The car was a smashing success with over 14,000 vehicles sold in 1955, compared to only 700 Corvettes. According to Ford, very few models left dealership lots without either overdrive or automatic transmission, and most power options. It came with a base sticker price of $2,695 and included a removable hard convertible top and power-operated seats. It officially went on sale the following month. The first 1955 model Thunderbird rolled off the Ford Motor Company’s assembly line in Dearborn on September 9, 1954. The car made its first public appearance on Februat Detroit’s first auto show following World War II. A southwest native, Giberson said he took the name from the Thunderbird of Native American mythology. Frustrated with the suggestions, Crusoe offered $250 to anyone who could come up with an option he liked.Īlden “Gib’’ Giberson, a young stylist for Ford offered the winning name, Thunderbird. More than 5,000 names for the new car were considered, including Hep Cat, Beaver, Runabout, and El Tigre. The goal was to build a car that could travel at up to 100 miles per hour, weighed 2,525 pounds, had balanced weight distribution, and was powered by an interceptor V-8 engine. According to Ford’s website, the initial plans for a T-Bird featured: “A two-passenger, canvas-topped open car that ‘would make maximum use of standard production components.’’’Ĭheck out Ford’s most iconic cars and trucks
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