วันศุกร์ที่ 18 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2556

>>Ford 5000

Ford 5000




Ford 5000
Ford5000.jpg
Typeagricultural
ManufacturerFord
Production1964-1979
Length141.6 inches
Width68.5 inches
Height63.5 inches (steering wheel) 86.4 inches (exhaust)
Weight5,865 lbs. (operating weight) 9,700 lbs. (ballasted weight)
Propulsionwheels
The Ford 5000 was a blue and white tractor in production from 1964 by the Ford Motor Company. It was a mid-range tractor, suitable for European farms. The North American version was slightly different and was named the Ford Major.

Europe
The tractor was released in mainland Europe in 1964, and sold moderately. As time went on, there were more Ford 5000s being sold and could be compared to the New Holland TM series which was in production from 1997-2004.

Great Britain
The tractor sold exceptionally well in Great Britain. The tractor replaced the long-running Fordson Major which was a worldwide hit. It sold especially well because it slotted into the mid-sized range, which catered for almost every British farmer. It sold so well it was in the top ten best-selling list of tractors sold in Great Britain until 2005.
The Ford 5000 was used by E. Doe to build the uprated version of the Doe Triple D in 1964. The Doe tractor was 2 Tractors fixed together at a central pivot, with the front axles removed to form an articulated tractor with twice the power and 4-wd. This new version was called the Doe 130, as it was rated at 130 hp from the 2 F5000 units. Following its launch at the Smithfield show in December 1964, they sold 73 units in 1965.

Ireland
In Ireland, Ford tractors, lorries and cars sold very very well because at the time, Ford had a factory in Cork. Selling the Fordson Major and Ford 4000 was of no problem and selling the Ford 5000 was even easier. Like Great Britain, it was launched in the mid-sized range, which, like Great Britain,was the main market for Irish farmers. It sold very well and is the third best-selling tractor in the history of Ireland. According to a 2004 tractor survey, there were more than 200 Ford 5000s being in everyday use in every province.

Changes
After its launch in 1964 the Ford 5000 and the other models in the range stayed in production until 1968 when they were upgraded into the Ford Force series. Some modifications were done to the engine and other components which resulted in more horsepower for the Ford 5000, rated at 75 HP. Also some modifications to the sheet metal were done to give it a more modern appearance. In 1971 a few minor changes were done to the engine and a factory fitted safety cab could be ordered from that moment on. In 1975, Ford retired the Ford 5000 and all of its range with it, after eleven years production. It is one of the best remembered tractors in Europe and one of the Ford Motor Company's best selling tractors.


Gallery



>>Ford Thunderbird (eleventh generation)

Ford Thunderbird (eleventh generation)



Eleventh generation Ford Thunderbird
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
Production2002–2005
AssemblyWixom, Michigan
PredecessorFord Thunderbird (tenth generation)
Body style2-door coupé
2-door convertible
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
PlatformFord DEW98 platform
Engine3.9 L AJ35 V8
Transmission5-speed automatic
Wheelbase107.2 in (2,723 mm)
Length186.3 in (4,732 mm)
Width72 in (1,829 mm)
Height52.1 in (1,323 mm)
RelatedJaguar S-Type
Lincoln LS
Jaguar XF
2002 saw a new Thunderbird launched, based on the Ford DEW platform. It was a personal luxury car in the same vein as the nameplate's earlier iterations. Though it was initially well received by the automotive press, garnering accolades like the Motor Trend Car of the Year and a nomination for the North American Car of the Year in its first year of existence, many publications regarded the Thunderbird's revival rather more frostily after a few years; it garnered a place on Car and Driver Magazine's 2009 list of "The 10 Most Embarrassing Award Winners in Automotive History".

Retro Styling 

Ford Thunderbird hardtop
When the Eleventh Generation Thunderbird was released, it followed a then-recent trend for nostalgic recreations of old-fashioned (or "retro") styling (see Volkswagen New Beetle, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Plymouth/Chrysler Prowler, MINI Cooper), using design cues from the original Ford Thunderbird (first generation). Available only as a convertible with a soft top and an optional removable hardtop, according to automotive writer Jerry Flint, the new Thunderbird "turned heads wherever it went."

Sales
Ford expected sales of 25,000 units per year, but despite strong sales during its initial launch which saw dealers charging well over the manufacturer's suggested retail price, this goal was never met. The 2002 Thunderbird sold 19,085 units and sales declined each subsequent year until its cancellation.
Forbes magazine writer Jerry Flint attributed significant blame of the latest generation Thunderbird's demise to a lack of proper sales and marketing, writing: "Ford dealers have been successful selling $35,000-45,000 trucks but have little experience selling automobiles in the near-luxury price range. If there was a marketing effort by Ford Motor, I wasn't aware of it. Naturally, sales didn't meet expectations."

Color 

Ford Thunderbird convertible
Though the retro body styling never changed, exterior and interior color packaging was changed year to year. For 2002, the car was available in bright red ("torch red"), bright yellow ("inspiration yellow"), and turquoise ("Thunderbird blue"), all reminiscent of 1950s colors. Furthermore, "retro" two-tone interiors (black and the color matching the exterior), were paired with these exterior colors.
"Whisper white" and "evening black" exteriors were also available in 2002, with matching solid color interiors or the two-tone red interior. The black and red proved to be the models for the remaining years. Beginning with 2003, the two-tone "retro" interiors were nolonger available, with the exception of red and a limited white — in favor of all-black (or other one-color) interiors. Gone were the bright yellow and turquoise exteriors, replaced with more subdued colors: "mountain shadow grey," "desert sky blue," and coral. Exterior and interior colors added for both the 2004 and 2005 model years remained subdued and white was replaced by platinum silver.)

Post 2002 sales
Ford's tinkering with the exterior/interior packages did not yield a sales boost. Just 11,998 were sold in 2004. The Ford Motor Company announced in March 2005 that the Thunderbird would again be discontinued in July of that year, with 9,548 sold for 2005. Unlike previous T-birds, a 2nd row of seats were not added which might have widened its appeal, though Lincoln had the LS rather than an upscale Mark based on a Thunderbird platform. The last Ford Thunderbird rolled off the assembly line on July 1, 2005
The Thunderbird used an odometer system, shared with the Lincoln LS, which used a six-digit display including the 1/10 mile indicator. After99,999.9 miles, the 1/10 mile indicator disappears and the number reads simply in whole numbers.

2003 Thunderbird
There was also talk of a performance edition from Ford's SVT. A 2003 Concept, the Ford SuperCharged Thunderbird Concept, which was designed by Sid Ramnarace, featured a modified Jaguar Supercharged V8. Ford ultimately decided it was not necessary, though some Thunderbird fans believe it could have saved the car, both by improving performance and hearkening back to the Thunderbird's roots. The original 55-57 Thunderbirds came with several engine upgrades and were considered high performance cars of the day. Ford made no effort to give a performance image to the new Thunderbirds, and while the V8 engine was competitively powered (280 hp (209 kW), 286 lb·ft (388 N·m)), its relatively heavy weight of over 3,700 lb (1,678 kg), widely spaced gears on the five-speed automatic, and suspension that favored comfort over handling made it feel more akin to a large luxury car than a true sport coupe.
The 2003 Thunderbird was featured in the James Bond movie Die Another Day. Halle Berry's character of Jinx drove one in the movie. The mainly superficial design changes for the 007 edition Thunderbird were designed by Sid Ramnarace, including the Coral paint color which would become the basis for the Jinx character's wardrobe. Ford issued a limited edition which was produced to commemorate the movie.


Production Totals
YearProduction
200231,121
200314,506
200412,671
20059,220
Total67,518

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 17 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2556

>>Ford Thunderbird (tenth generation)

Ford Thunderbird (tenth generation)


Tenth generation Ford Thunderbird
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
ProductionOctober 1988–September 1997
AssemblyLorain, Ohio
Wixom, Michigan
PredecessorFord Thunderbird (ninth generation)
SuccessorFord Thunderbird (eleventh generation)
Body style2-door coupe
LayoutFR layout
PlatformFord MN12 platform
Engine3.8 L Essex V6 (1989–1997)
3.8 L Essex Supercharged V6 (1989–1995 Super Coupe only)
4.9 L (302 cu in) Windsor 5.0 V8 (1991–1993)
4.6 L Modular V8 (1994–1997)
TransmissionAOD 4-speed automatic transmission(1989–1993)
4R70W 4-speed automatic transmission (1994–1997)
M5R2 5-speed manual transmission(1989–1995 Super Coupe only)
Wheelbase113. in (2,870 mm)
Length1989–1993: 198.7 in (5,047 mm)
1994–97: 200.3 in (5,088 mm)
Width1989–1995: 72.7 in (1,847 mm)
1996–97: 73.2 in (1,859 mm)
Height1994–97: 52.5 in (1,334 mm)
1994–95 Super Coupe: 53.0 in (1,346 mm)
1989–1993: 52.7 in (1,339 mm)
1991–93 Upper End Model: 53.1 in (1,349 mm)
Curb weight3,536 lb (1,604 kg) (1989 V6 model)
3,725 lb (1,690 kg) (1995 V8 model)
RelatedLincoln Mark VIII
Mercury Cougar
On December 26, 1988 a completely redesigned Thunderbird was introduced as a 1989 model alongside its sister car, the Mercury Cougar.Developed on Ford's new MN12 (Mid-Size North American Project 12) platform, the new Thunderbird featured a more aerodynamic body that was slightly shorter in overall length relative to the 1988 Thunderbird but had a nine inch longer wheelbase. The car featured a short-long arm (SLA) four-wheel independent suspension, with a modified MacPherson strut assembly in front, that offered excellent handling and ride quality. This setup was significant as it made the Thunderbird and the Cougar the only rear-wheel drive North American domestic cars other than the Chevrolet Corvette to offer a four-wheel independent suspension at the time. Engine options fell to only two for 1989 as Ford dropped the V8 option for the new Thunderbird. The base and LX models were powered by Ford's 3.8 L Essex OHV V6. Producing 140 horsepower (100 kW) at 3800 rpm and 215 lb·ft (292 N·m) of torque at 2400 rpm, many felt the engine was somewhat underpowered for a car that weighed over 3,500 pounds (1,600 kg) in base trim (heavier when equipped with available options). This engine was mated to Ford's AOD 4-speed automatic transmission regardless of trim level from the 1989 to 1993 model years. Thanks in part to its low coefficient of drag, the Thunderbird was relatively fuel efficient considering its overall size and weight. The EPA gave 1989 Thunderbirds equipped with the standard V6 a fuel efficiency rating of 19 mpg-US (12 L/100 km; 23 mpg-imp) in city driving and 27 mpg-US (8.7 L/100 km; 32 mpg-imp) on the highway, though, like most cars built before 2008, this rating was retroactively reduced by the EPA to reflect newer, more realistic fuel efficiency measurements.The fuel efficiency rating was noticeably better than that of Thunderbirds equipped with higher performance engines and gave the base V6-equipped Thunderbird a significant driving range with its 19 gallon fuel tank (later decreased to 18 gallons).
A more sophisticated, supercharged and intercooled version of the 3.8 L OHV V6 was used to power the high performance Thunderbird Super Coupe, also called Thunderbird SC for short. The Super Coupe could be had with a Mazda-derived,M5R2 5-speed manual transmission or an AOD 4-speed automatic transmission. The Thunderbird Super Coupe was Motor Trend's Car of the Year for 1989, which Ford proudly advertised. When running at a maximum of 5600 rpm, the supercharger provided 12 psi of boost, producing 210 horsepower (160 kW) at 4000 rpm and 315 lb·ft (427 N·m) of torque at 2600 rpm under a 8.2:1 compression ratio. Accompanying the more powerful engine, Super Coupes were equipped with a host of unique features underlining their higher performance demeanor relative to standard Thunderbirds. Among these were larger, 16 x 7.0 inch alloy wheels with high performance tires (standard Thunderbirds came with 15 x 6.0 inch steel wheels and 15 x 6.5 inch alloy wheels were optional), a Traction-Lok limited slip differential, standard anti-lock brakes, 4-wheel disc brakes (vented front and rear rotors), speed-sensitive variable assist steering, lower body side cladding, fog lights, and a stiffer suspension with adjustable shocks supplied by Tokico.
In spite of the new Thunderbird's merits, it was considered a failure by Ford's top management. On January 17, 1989, Ford President Harold A. Poling, with Ford CEO Donald Petersen and Ford Executive Vice President Phil Benton looking on, lambasted the MN12 program's staff in a meeting for badly missing the Thunderbird and Cougars' weight and cost targets (250 lb (110 kg) heavier and $900 US$ more per car than planned). This criticism came as a surprise to the program staff who expected to be praised for the Thunderbird and Cougars' technical achievements and positive reception. Anthony "Tony" S. Kuchta, manager of the MN12 program, was angered by Poling, not for his points about weight and cost overruns but rather that he directed his tirade at the program staff instead of at Kuchta who was responsible for all of the important decisions that determined the program's direction. Ironically, many of the decisions that Kuchta made regarding the MN12's development that resulted in the weight and cost overruns criticized by Poling were caused by the very things that set the MN12 cars apart from other cars in their class (such as rear-wheel drive and an independent rear suspension). Falling out of favor with Ford management after the Thunderbird and Cougars' launch, Kuchta voluntarily retired early from Ford in May 1989.
For the 1991 model year, Ford reintroduced a V8 option with the 4.9 L (302 cu in) Windsor 5.0 V8. The engine was used through the 1993 model year and produced 200 horsepower (150 kW) at 4000 rpm and 275 lb·ft (373 N·m) of torque at 3000 rpm; gains of 35 horsepower (26 kW) and 25 lb·ft (34 N·m) of torque respectively over the 1988 Thunderbird, the previous Thunderbird to use this engine. Like the standard 3.8 L V6, the V8 was only mated to the AOD 4-speed automatic transmission. On the television program MotorWeek in a review of the 1991 Thunderbird and similar Mercury Cougar, a road test of a V8-equipped Thunderbird revealed that the car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds; approximately two seconds faster than a standard V6 Thunderbird but about two seconds slower than a Super Coupe.

1994

1994 Ford Thunderbird LX (with aftermarket headlights)
In 1994, the Thunderbird received some exterior updates. The front fascia saw substantial stylistic changes with larger air scoops in the bumper cover, new headlamps, and a new, slightly more curvaceous hood. At the center of this, the silver Thunderbird logo was moved onto the front bumper cover from the front lip of the hood where it was located previously. The Thunderbird's interior was completely redesigned with an emphasis on optimizing driver comfort and convenience to the utmost. The redesign featured a "wrap around" cockpit-style layout of instrumentation with a new steering wheel, radio, and climate controls and sweeping curves on the door panels and dashboard surfaces. Complementing the changes to the interior came added driver and passenger safety as Ford made dual front-side airbags standard on all 1994 Thunderbird models.
Arguably the most dramatic change for 1994, however, was the new 4.6 L Modular SOHC V8 which replaced the "5.0" Windsor engine. The 4.6 L V8 produced 205 horsepower (153 kW) at 4500 rpm and 265 lb·ft (359 N·m) of torque at 3200 rpm and brought with it an updated powertrain control module, the EEC-V (base V6 Thunderbirds and Super Coupes continued to use the older EEC-IV). An electronically-controlled 4R70W 4-speed automatic transmission replaced the AOD automatic transmission in all instances where it was previously used in the Thunderbird. Car and Driver reviewed the 4.6 L V8 and it managed a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 8.1 seconds and a quarter-mile being completed in 16.3 seconds at 87 mph.
The Super Coupe continued on in 1994 with the same supercharged 3.8 L V6 as before, but now with 230 horsepower (170 kW) at 4400 rpm and 330 lb·ft (447 N·m) of torque at 2500 rpm. This was made possible due to a number of changes. The Eaton M90 roots-type supercharger was given a larger, square style inlet, a larger attaching inlet plenum, and Teflon coated rotors. The engine received larger fuel injectors and an increase in compression to 8.6:1. In their March 1996 issue, Motor Trend magazine conducted a comparison test of a 1995 Thunderbird Super Coupe against the front-wheel drive Chevrolet Monte Carlo Z34 and a Buick Regal Gran Sport. The Super Coupe delivered the best overall performance, including a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 7.0 seconds and a completion of a quarter-mile in 15.2 seconds at 88.1 mph. In summarizing the overall performance of each car relative to each other, the author of the article, Don Sherman, wrote, "The Buick Regal is a competent, comfortable car at an attractive price, but it's too androgynous to be called a Gran Sport. Nothing about it is grand, and there isn't a sporting bone in its body. All the Monte Carlo needs to succeed is a V-8 engine and a year of refinement to eradicate its quality bugs. That leaves the Thunderbird SC as this test's big winner. It's a far more sophisticated solution to the four-place-coupe equation, but is priced accordingly." In spite of positive critiques like this, the increases in output and performance over earlier Super Coupes would be short-lived, as the Thunderbird Super Coupe was discontinued after the 1995 model year due to slowing sales.

1996 

1996–1997 Ford Thunderbird LX
For the 1996 model year, the Thunderbird received its last refresh. Available in LX (V6 or V8) or Sport (V8 only) trims, the cars received redesigned headlights, smoother front and rear fascias, body side cladding, and differently styled wheels (15 inch on LX, 16 inch on Sport). The car's taillights were revised with the black paint on the bottom quarter of the lenses being removed (previously, this paint was put on the taillights of LX Thunderbirds but omitted on the Super Coupe). The Thunderbird nameplate, which was previously positioned over this black paint on the driver side taillight, was moved above the taillight and its font was changed to a new, italicized style. With the revised front fascia, a small, egg-crate style grille (with the silver Thunderbird logo at its center) was added, giving the Thunderbird a traditional grille for the first time since the mid-1980s. The hood was redesigned with a slight bulge, which was necessary to fit the updated 4.6 L engine's taller intake manifold, now composite. The V8 models were tuned to make 280 lb·ft (380 N·m) of torque at 3000 rpm, an increase of 15 lb·ft (20 N·m) of torque over the 4.6 L V8s used in 1994 and 1995 Thunderbirds, the horsepower however still remains the same at 205 horsepower (153 kW) at 4250 rpm. In another comparison test conducted by Motor Trend against a Monte Carlo Z34, a Thunderbird with the updated 4.6 L V8 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and completed a quarter-mile run in 15.8 seconds at 88.4 mph. Unfortunately for owners, the all-composite intake had a tendency to crack and leak antifreeze. Some 1997s are covered by a class action lawsuit settled by Ford late in 2005 (see Intake Manifold Defect for details). The base LX model continued to use the 3.8 L V6 as its engine but now made use of the EEC-V computer which before was only found in 4.6 L V8-equipped models. Torque output from the V6 remained the same as before at 215 lb·ft (292 N·m) (though at 2750 rpm versus 2400 rpm) but power increased to 145 horsepower (108 kW) at 4000 rpm for 1996.

1997
In 1997, Ford made few notable changes, trying to save as much money as they could on the floundering coupe. On the exterior, the Thunderbird logo in the grille on early 1997 Thunderbirds have turquoise feet. However, late production 1997 models do not have these turquoise feet because Ford ran out of the inserts and decided not to go to the trouble of adding them to a car that was about to be discontinued. Also on some late 1997 models, the seven-spoke, 15x6.5-inch alloy wheels available on LX models of the 1993, 1994, and 1995 Thunderbirds briefly returned with a chrome finish instead of with the silver paint used originally. The wheels were left over from the earlier model years and, with their new finish, were made available as a special option near the Thunderbird's discontinuation. Inside, the instrument cluster was changed from a six gauge layout (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, coolant temperature, oil pressure and voltmeter) to a four gauge layout (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, coolant temperature), similar to that previously used on the Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable of the time. Lastly, the Thunderbird's options list was abbreviated to a power sunroof, power driver seat, remote keyless entry, and a CD player.
Toward the end of the MN12 Thunderbird's production run, Ford's Special Vehicle Engineering (SVE) division explored the idea of a new high performance Thunderbird, producing four prototypes. Stylistically the SVE Thunderbirds blended elements from the 1994–1995 and 1996–1997 Thunderbirds along with elements unique to themselves. The SVE Thunderbird used the headlights, door handles, and rear bumper cover from the 1994–1995 Thunderbird and front fascia and body side cladding from the 1996–1997 Thunderbird. Unique to the SVE Thunderbird relative to other Thunderbirds were 17-inch, five spoke Cobra R wheels, larger dual exhaust tips, a different lower section of the front fascia with fog lights, a unique spoiler, and a prominent cowl hood. The most significant difference that set the SVE Thunderbird apart from other Thunderbirds was its supercharged 4.6 L DOHC V8 engine, similar to that later found in the SVT Mustang Cobra. Power was delivered to the wheels via a Tremec T-45 5-speed manual transmission. Stopping the SVE Thunderbird were larger brakes taken from the Mustang Cobra (going along with its Cobra R wheels). In spite of its potential, this high performance Thunderbird was not meant to be as Ford not only pulled the plug on this project, but on the entire Thunderbird and Cougar line, with the 1997 model year being its last. On September 4, 1997, the final MN12 Thunderbird was built at Ford's assembly plant in Lorain, Ohio. As it rolled down the assembly line, a sign saying "That's All Folks" adorned the decklid.

Production Totals
YearProduction
1989122,909
1990114,040
199184,719
199274,149
1993130,750
1994121,082
1995115,397
1996112,302
199736,583
Total961,624

>>Ford Thunderbird (ninth generation)

Ford Thunderbird (ninth generation)


Ninth generation Ford Thunderbird
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
Production1983–1988
AssemblyLorain, Ohio
Wixom, Michigan
PredecessorFord Thunderbird (eighth generation)
SuccessorFord Thunderbird (tenth generation)
Body style2-door coupe
LayoutFR layout
PlatformFord Fox platform
Engine2.3 L Lima I4 (turbo)
3.8 L Essex V6
5.0 L Windsor V8
Transmission3-speed automatic
4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Wheelbase104.2 in (2,647 mm)
Length202.1 in (5,133 mm)
Width71.1 in (1,806 mm)
Height53.4 in (1,356 mm)
RelatedFord LTD
Ford Mustang
Lincoln Continental Mark VII
Mercury Capri
Mercury Cougar
Mercury Marquis
Lincoln Continental
Designer(s)Jack Telnack
1983 saw a much improved and aerodynamic car and the launch of the Turbo Coupe, and a much sportier image. Reputedly, in 1980 following a change in leadership, the new chief designer Jack Telnack was asked by executive Don Petersen "is this what you would want in your driveway?" Telnack's negative response prompted a redesign of the Thunderbird with the aero style that subsequently flowed on through the Taurus, Sierra and various Lincolns. In 1987, the Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe was redesigned and came with such notable features as automatic ride control, anti-lock brakes, and the intercooled turbocharged engine similar to that of the Ford Mustang SVO. All this resulted in a personal luxury car that produced 190 horsepower (140 kW) from a 2.3 L 4-cylinder engine and had a 143 mph (230 km/h) top speed.
The 1983 Ford Thunderbird was built on the same "Fox platform" as many other Ford products including the 1980-82 Thunderbird and the Ford Mustang. Unlike the previous generation T-Bird, the new-for-1983 model was redesigned with a more aerodynamic look. The drag coefficient of this body style was a mere 0.35. The 1983 T-Bird came in base, Heritage, and Turbo Coupe models. Both the base and the Heritage came standard with a 3.8 L (232 cu in) Essex V6 that produced 110 horsepower (82 kW) mated to a 3 speed automatic. A 4.9 L (302 cu in) Windsor 5.0 V8 with 140 horsepower (100 kW) was available with the former two models as well. The Turbo Coupe, the top-of-the-line model was special for several reasons. It used a turbocharged 4-cylinder 2.3 L (140 cu in) engine with Ford's EEC-IV electronic engine control system. Unlike the other models, the Turbo Coupe came with a standard 5-speed manual transmission. Other improvements included a limited-slip differential (called "Traction-Lok"), larger tires and wheels, and a sportier interior complete with analog gauges.
For the 1984 Thunderbird few changes were made. The Turbo Coupe gained a 3-speed automatic transmission as an option. A "FILA" model was available, which featured unique paint and wheel choices, as well as badging to provide the car a more European feel.
By 1985, the Turbo Coupe gained power to 155 horsepower (116 kW), and all models received a new interior. A 30th Anniversary Edition model was offered, that featured unique blue paint and stripes, and came very well loaded with options. It was loosely based on the Elan model and most models came with the V8. Minor changes were made in 1986, including a center high mount stop lamp, and the deletion of the FILA edition.
In 1986 Ford began work on the "MN12" project which would serve as the basis for an all-new Thunderbird generation. Supposed to compete against the BMW 6-Series, Ford believed that the new Thunderbird would be too big a change for the public and still wanted to capitalize on the success that the existing generation of Thunderbirds had brought. So for 1987, the body shell and interior were altered for improved aerodynamic performance. Replacing the Elan were new LX and Sport models. The latter came with the V8 while the LX came with the V6. The Turbo Coupe earned the honor of being the Motor Trend Car of the Year for 1987. The 2.3 L turbo-4 now included the air-to-air intercooler that was found in the Ford Mustang SVO and boosted power up to 190 horsepower (140 kW) for the 5-speed manual transmission. New for the Turbo Coupe was a 4-speed automatic, with which the engine was rated at 150 horsepower (110 kW). The automatic had detuned turbo boost of 9.5 psi (65kPa or 0.65 bar) instead of 10 to 15 psi (70 to 100 kPa or 0.7 to 1 bar). Ford's rationale for that was "transmission durability". Otherwise, the Turbo Coupe also came with anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes, Automatic Ride Control, and 16-inch 225/60VR performance tires. On the appearance side, the Turbo Coupe received a performance hood with operational dual hood scoops with air ducts to the intercooler. The Turbo Coupe also featured a performance-styled front valance with fog lights and special trim with "Turbo Coupe" badges on the doors, as well as "Snowflake" 16 inch alloy wheels.
1988, the final year for the Turbo Coupe, saw only a minor change. The 5-speed manual transmission now allowed the full 17 psi of boost in all forward gears (as opposed to excluding the first two gears). The Turbo Coupe was replaced in 1989 by the Super Coupe which had a 3.8 L supercharged V6 engine—a radical departure from the old turbo-4.

Production Totals

YearProduction
1983121,999
1984170,551
1985151,852
1986165,965
1987128,135
1988147,243
Total885,745

วันพุธที่ 16 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2556

>>Ford Thunderbird (eighth generation)

Ford Thunderbird (eighth generation)



Eighth generation Ford Thunderbird
Production1980–1982
AssemblyLorain, Ohio
Chicago, Illinois
Wixom, Michigan
PredecessorFord Thunderbird (seventh generation)
SuccessorFord Thunderbird (ninth generation)
Body style2-door coupe
PlatformFord Fox platform
Engine200 cu in (3.3 L) Thriftpower Six I6
232 cu in (3.8 L) Essex V6
255 cu in (4.2 L) Windsor V8
302 cu in (4.9 L) Windsor V8
RelatedFord Fairmont
Ford Mustang
Mercury Capri
Mercury Cougar
Mercury Zephyr
Ford Granada
1980 saw a new downsized Thunderbird that was an upmarket derivative of the Ford Fairmont sedan with nicer trim. The 1980 Thunderbird was a unibody car, weighing 800 lb (363 kg) less than the 1979 model, and was 17 in. (432 mm) shorter. It was based on the Fox platform, and the lighter weight resulted in better gas mileage.
These cars were not well received by the general public, and sales dropped off dramatically after 1980. The squarish upright lines favored by Ford design vice-president Eugene Bordinat, similar to the popular 1977-79 models, didn't translate well to the smaller platform.
The base engine was a 4.2 L (255 cu in V8), or an optional 140 hp (104 kW) 5.0 L (302 cu in) Windsor V8. A 3.3 L (201 cu in)I6 was offered as a delete option in late built 1980 models and became the standard powerplant in 1981. The 3.8 L (232 cu in)V6 was made available as an option in 1982, and the 4.9 L (302 cu in) Windsor 5.0 V8 was dropped.
The 1980 and 1982 Thunderbirds offered vacuum operated hidden headlamps. Digital instrumentation was also available, along with a variety of trim packages. The 1980 Thunderbird was also among the first cars with a keyless entry keypad available.Recaro bucket seats were optional, and power windows were available.
In 1980, Thunderbird was offered as a "Silver Anniversary Edition" model commemorating the 25th anniversary of the car. The external color scheme was called "Anniversary Glow Silver" and the interior was a silver/gray velour with optional leather available. The standard list of features was very comprehensive including the 302 V-8 as standard, as well as a host of luxury trim and convenience options above what the "Town Landau" model offered. Standard features included a garage door opener and a unique landau roof treatment with unique trim and exterior model designation badging.

Ford Thunderbird

Production Totals

YearProduction
1980156,803
198186,693
198245,142
Total288,638

>>Ford Thunderbird (seventh generation)

Ford Thunderbird (seventh generation)



Seventh generation Ford Thunderbird
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
Also calledGuri Conquistador
ProductionUSA: 1977–1979
YV: 1978–1989
AssemblyWixom, Michigan
Chicago, Illinois
Los Angeles, California
Barcelona, Venezuela
PredecessorFord Thunderbird (sixth generation)
SuccessorFord Thunderbird (eighth generation)
Body style2-door coupe
LayoutFR layout
Engine302 cu in (4.9 L) Windsor V8
351 cu in (5.8 L) 351W V8
351 cu in (5.8 L) 351M V8
400 cu in (6.6 L) Cleveland V8
Wheelbase114.0 in (2,896 mm)
RelatedFord LTD II
Mercury Cougar
For the 1977 through 1979 model years, the Thunderbird nameplate was shifted to the smaller 114" wheelbase chassis that underpinned the 1972-76 Ford Torino and its replacement, the concurrent 1977-79 LTD II, as Ford's first effort at downsizing the car. The squarer, sharper styling was popular, and this generation of Thunderbird sold well. Helped by a $2,700 drop in price from 1976, this generation was by far the most popular in Thunderbird history, with over 318,000 sold in 1977 and 352,000 in 1978 (the best single sales year in Thunderbird history), followed by 295,000 in 1979. In essence, this generation was really a continuation of the 1974-76 Ford Elite, Ford's successful first attempt at competing in the market created by the Pontiac Grand Prix and Chevrolet Monte Carlo. It also inspired Ford to market a smaller version called the Ford Fairmont Futura coupe and the Mercury Zephyr Z-7 variants.
Compared to the 1972-1976 T-Birds, the car lost 10 inches (254 mm) of length and 900 lb (408 kg) of weight, while height and width were essentially unchanged. A substantial part of the weight reduction was in the drivetrain, where a small-block V8 replaced the heavy big-block V8 of previous years.
The base engine was the 302 cu in (4.9 L) Windsor V8, while the larger 351 cu in (5.8 L) 351M and 400 cu in (6.6 L) and T-tops were available as options along with the 351W. In California, the 351 was the only engine available. Although power was definitely down by 1977, the lighter car did compensate. The 400 was dropped in 1979 with the introduction of CAFE requirements.

Diamond Jubilee Edition for 1978


1978 Ford Thunderbird
In 1978, Ford offered the "Diamond Jubilee Edition" Thunderbird to commemorate the company's 75th year as an auto manufacturer. This option package escalated the price of the car to almost US$12,000, virtually doubling the base price. Naturally, it included every option available except for a moonroof and an engine block heater. It was originally available in only two colors- Diamond Jubilee exclusive "diamond blue" metallic, or "standard issue" ember metallic; both with matching velour cloth seats with a "biscuit" design. Later in production, Ford offered Leather as an option, and offered white as an exterior color with blue or white trim and interior. This option was available on the Lincoln Continental Mark V as well for the much more substantial cost of US$23,000. In 1979, a similar option package was available named "Heritage". It included basically the same optional equipment, still with only two color options available: Heritage Maroon or Heritage Baby Blue. The "Heritage" option remained available into the next generation of the car.

Production Totals

YearProduction
1977318,140
1978352,751
1979284,141
Total955,032

วันอังคารที่ 15 ตุลาคม พ.ศ. 2556

>>Ford Thunderbird (sixth generation)

Ford Thunderbird (sixth generation)


Sixth generation Ford Thunderbird
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
Production1972–1976
AssemblyWixom, Michigan
PredecessorFord Thunderbird (fifth generation)
SuccessorFord Thunderbird (seventh generation)
Body style2-door hardtop coupe
LayoutFR layout
Engine429 cu in (7.0 L) 385 V8
460 cu in (7.5 L) 385 V8
Wheelbase120.4 in (3,058 mm)
Length225 in (5,715 mm)
Width79.7 in (2,024 mm) 
RelatedLincoln Continental Mark IV
Mercury Cougar
The sixth generation Ford Thunderbird debuted in the fall of 1971. These were the biggest Thunderbirds produced, sharing a common platform  with the Lincoln Continental Mark IV. They rode on a 120.4-inch (3,058 mm) wheelbase, measured 225 inches (5,715 mm) overall by 1976. Prices rose also, with the 1976 Thunderbird listing at $7,790 without options. They used a massive 429 cu in (7.0 L) engine that was standard in 1972 and 1973 or the optional 460 cu in (7.5 L) V8 engine, which was made standard for 1974 through 1976. These cars weighed around 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg)[dubious ]. Due to their enormous proportions and large engines gas mileage was abysmal. These cars averaged anywhere from 8 mpg-US(29 L/100 km; 9.6 mpg-imp) to 12 mpg-US (20 L/100 km; 14 mpg-imp) depending on driving conditions. With the 1973 oil crisistaking its toll on the United States, automobiles were forced to downsize and become more efficient.
The 1972 Thunderbird represented a scaling down of body styles. Instead of the three body styles offered for the 1971 model year, Ford offered Thunderbird in only a two door hardtop form. The body shared many components with the new Lincoln Mark IV, the main differences being the front and rear ends. The prominent “beak” of 1971 was toned down and the full width tail lights lost the sequential turns signals of the previous cars. The interior was also shared with the Mark IV, the only difference being the dash. The 1972-76 dash used round gauges, speedometer, fuel gauge, and clock, as opposed to the Mark IV square gauges. To the driver’s left were the climate control controls and the light controls. To the right were the radio controls, wiper controls, and information center. This dash layout would remain through the 1976 model year. Base price was $5,293 and a total of 57,814 Thunderbirds were built for the model year.
For 1973, Thunderbird would increase both in size and price. To accommodate the larger bumpers mandated for all 1973 automobiles, the front was restyled with an egg crate grill, topped by a spring-loaded hood ornament, flanked by the quad headlight in individual nacelles. The turn signals were more prominent at the fender edges. Also new to the exterior were opera windows, first optional, then standard late in the model year. Power windows ($129), vinyl roof ($141), manual air conditioning ($436), and tinted glass ($51), were also made standard during the model year. Some new options included AM/FM 8-track tape player ($311), remote control right hand outside mirror ($26), and an anti-theft system ($79). Some optional equipment available included sure-track brakes, an early anti-lock braking system ($197), power sunroof ($504), power door locks ($59), cruise control ($103) and the 460 cu in (7.5 L) V8 ($76). 1973 was the last year for the 429 and leaded gas. Base price was $5,577 early in the model year and $6,414 later due to additions to the standard equipment list. A total of 87,269 Thunderbirds were built making this the third highest production figure to date.
1974 would see more changes made in response to new federal regulations. The addition of 5 mph (8.0 km/h) bumpers added still more curb weight, and the only engine now available was the huge Lincoln 460 cu in (7.5 L), which made the car so thirsty that a low fuel warning light was added to the dashboard. Also new for 1974 was a buzzer that would sound if both front seat belts weren't buckled. The full width taillights were replaced by four light segments separated by a central back-up light and the gas filler door was moved from behind the license plate to the drivers side rear panel. 1974 was the first year for special luxury group trim options, the burgundy luxury group ($411) and the white and gold luxury group ($546). These groups added upgraded paint and exterior and interior trim. Standard equipment remained unchanged but there were several new items listed as optional. Some of the most notable, and costly, included power moon roof ($798), auto lamp for automatic on/off of headlights [3] ($34), and power mini-vent windows ($70). AM/FM stereo ($152) or with tape player ($311), power drivers seat ($105), dual power front seats ($210), rear window defroster ($85), power antenna ($31), automatic temperature control ($74), and front corning lights ($43) also appeared on the option list. Base price was $7,221 and 58,443 were produced for the model year.
Little changed for 1975 save new luxury groups and more items added to the standard equipment list. The widely hated seatbelt alarms were dropped. 1975 would have the most extensive list of standard equipment of any year Thunderbird from 1955 to 1997. Some items made standard this year were, AM/FM stereo, front corning lights, and front and rear stabilizer bars. The special editions luxury groups returned being named copper luxury group ($624), silver luxury group ($337), and jade luxury group ($624). The wide range options available changed little but four wheel disc brakes ($ 184) were available for the time. Power was still supplied by the 460 cu in (7.5 L) V8 rated at 220 horsepower (160 kW). Base price was $7,701 with a production of 42,685. An alarm system became optional.
1976 was the last model year for the sixth generation. Some items that were standard in 1975 were moved to the options list. Some items returning to the option list included, AM/FM stereo, front cornering lights, and tinted glass. Additionally the rear windows became stationary. This move was to keep cost down and was also shared by the 1976 Mark IV. The 1976 luxury groups were crème and gold ($793 ), lipstick ($546 ), and Bordeaux ($700 ). New options included driver's lighted vanity mirror ($43), power lumbar drivers seat, ($86), AM/FM stereo search radio ($298), and AM/FM stereo radio with Quadra sonic 8-track tape player ($382). An auto dimmer was added to the autolamp option. Base price was $7,790 with a total of 52,935 cars produced.

Production totals

YearProduction
197257,814
197387,269
197458,443
197542,685
197652,935
Total299,146