Ford Puts a Price On 'Dream Car'

The 2002 Ford Thunderbird debuts at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this week, with Ford announcing the start of public sale and a suggested retail price starting at $35,495. The convertible roadster will be in dealerships starting late this summer.
"Our dealers have been deluged with people who want to buy a new Thunderbird," said Ford Division President Jim O'Connor. "The public reaction has been amazing. We are pleased to confirm that we are opening the order bank today -- but we must admit that we expect this car to sell out very quickly."

A fully loaded "premium" model -- which includes a removable top with porthole window, 17-inch chrome wheels, traction control and unique interior trim color -- is priced at $39,795.

All 2002 Thunderbirds are equipped with a convertible top. A second "removable" top featuring the classic Thunderbird signature porthole window also is available. The Thunderbird is powered by a 3.9-liter V-8 engine.

A distinct two-seater, Thunderbird is designed to be bold and confident, with design cues from the classic Thunderbirds of the 1950s translated into a contemporary design language.

Introduced as a concept car in 1999, the new Thunderbird has captured the imagination of the American public. The car is offered in five colors: Inspiration Yellow, Torch Red, Thunderbird Blue, Evening Black and Whisper White.

Orders for a special Neiman Marcus edition of the new Thunderbird -- featuring a black body finish, removable silver top and special interior treatments -- were taken last fall exclusively through the specialty retailer's Christmas Book. All 200 of the limited-edition models sold out in a record 2 hours, 15 minutes.

The new Thunderbird will be manufactured at Ford's Wixom, Mich., assembly plant. Prices include destination and delivery charges.

Source: PR Newswire