My next car...

[DavidinVa757]

I've had a desire to buy a 2003-2005 Thunderbird since they first debuted, which was back when I was selling cars at my local Ford/Merc/Lincoln store.
I'm very torn because I also love the 2016-19 Taurus (esp. Limited). I am alone so the Bird would suit me perfectly, but if I ever need more room...it's just a 2 seater.
When I look at these, it seems like the window is much smaller than the door...does anyone ever feel like it's too small of an opening for entry/egress? just wondering what opinions are.
Obviously I need to go check one out for myself...and I will. Most reviews of the 03 and newer are very good, though SiriusXM wasn't an option back then, my only other thought is for the removable top which I remember is 90lbs...a lot for one person to lift. These are very good buys from a financial standpoint because they hold value too, besides just being gorgeous. I'd love Torch Red...
Are there any common problems to look for? I really like to get feedback from people and appreciate the responses!

[007Cruiser]

Welcome, David! Where to begin? I don’t have a problem getting in and out of the car even though I’m not all that spry anymore. You will need to see for yourself in that regard. As to the hardtop, you could install a hoist making it a one man job. There are also cars for sale without a top. Lots of people sell them off separately.

Things to look for would be weak coil packs (use an OBD 2 reader to check for codes), suspension boots deteriorated from age, an make sure that all the electrical functions are working properly. Even simple things like door locks are controlled by expensive electronics. Hope that I haven’t scared you off as these are wonderful cars. Good luck with your search.

[wcoates]

Welcome David. Hope you have a great experience. The hunt is half the fun. Look for a relatively low mileage car or one that has been meticulously maintained with records.

If you can find one with the Ford ESP warranty program in place it will be worth the premium. Fly out to get it and drive it home is always a memorable experience.

I'd say the first thing for you recognize is it isn't a Corvette. I've owned many and the Bird is by far the favorite once you recognize it isn't a sports car but a wonderful top down boulevard cruiser. It will be a 15-18 year old car so repairs (sometimes costly) are inevitable.

There should be a buyer's checklist buried in the archives. Get to know the search function, it is one of your best friends.

The '02 had an approximately 250+hp engine and the '03-'05s were re-worked to up the total to 280.

The Coils On Plugs (COPS) are something that you can read about forever. It is not an issue of if they'll go bad, but when. Much discussion on how to change them and what parts and tools are needed. Different electronic modules can go bad but the group has put together an extensive list of where to get them repaired. Suspension rubber parts invariable go bad but much discussion on that also. CD players go bad but are repairable or just use the radio. A/C compressors are some times a problem but parts are out there.

Ask Quickdraw (Harry Sharp) for info and he can tell you exactly how it left the factory. You have to check out our Dot Lang's portholeauthority.com web site for all the info you need to start your search. Our member Brad (Bob Sinickas) has developed the following site for finding parts and now it appears that many enthusiasts are using it to sell their well maintained cars. https://www.facebook.com/groups/181646919325371/

Many cars are available without hardtops. Many with hardtops never put them on. KBB shows about a $500 difference w/o the top. Tops are also readily available here and on Ebay.

Go for it Joe, you won't regret it as you drive by those plain Jane Vettes. Left the Corvette scene when it took a crane to get in and out. T-Birds are much easier to get in and out. Good Luck.

[007Cruiser]

Switching the head unit will give you all the latest bells and whistles like Sat, GPS, backup camera.

[BLACK BEAUTY]

Welcome David..good advice here. We have 2 cars, my beloved Black Beauty, and a newer Ford Edge, that we drive if more people involved. Like Bill, I believe the retro is an excellent choice for a senior ride. Easy in and out and fun to drive. My wife says that women will be looking, but not at me...he..he..

[merlot4]

Welcome, David, good luck with your hunt.

[007Cruiser]

You can see all of the colors offered plus much more at this site:

http://www.portholeauthority.com/the...rd/home02.html

Available colors differed by MY so look at all years to see everything.

[Howlandd]

I'm almost 75 and have no problem getting in and out of my Bird. Bought mine about 4 years ago with 24K on it. Now have over 40K. I have replaced one COP, all front suspension rubber bushings and replaced the original tires. Total cost less than $550. I just ask a neighbor to help me remove and replace the hard top. Weight is 84 pounds. I did buy one of the top hoists and used it only once. Now hanging on the wall of my garage! As I see it my 02 only has one thing missing that the 03-05s have. Heated seats. Still thinking about that mistake. LOL LOL.

[wcoates]

. I have replaced one COP, all front suspension rubber bushings and replaced the original tires. Total cost less than $550. I

What was the cost for replacing the rubber suspension rubber bushings?

As I see it my 02 only has one thing missing that the 03-05s have. Heated seats. Still thinking about that mistake. LOL LOL.

I've had heated seats added to a car. worked well and relatively inexpensive.

[RustyFrye]

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[DavidinVa757]

I really, really appreciate all the feedback and posts from everyone about your cars. This is awesome and I truly feel welcomed here...like I have a bunch of lifelong friends I didn't know I had! I'm going to be test driving a Thunderbird soon. I really love how many are out there with low mileage too. It's really wild having been in the car business so long, when you search for Thunderbirds and it's RARE to find models with 100k miles.
I'm looking for a 2003-2005 model for the extra HP. :)

[Welker]

David, I think a car with mileage over 50k with all the service records. That really is a guess because I had no trouble at all until the 100,000 "tuneup" and the dealer messed it so badly I had to replace all the plugs the dealer had installed and a main module. My guess at 50k is just that because I think most of the troubles others have had were in that area but without service records for reasonably high mileage, I would guess your experience might be an expensive one.