Ford Thunderbird (1967–9)

Ford Thunderbird. 1967–9 (prod. 191,639). 2-door coupé, 2-door convertible, 4-door sedan. F/R, 390, 428, 429 in³ (V8 OHV). Body-on-frame construction this time, with hidden headlights, leading to a full-width egg-crate grille with a Thunderbird emblem in the centre. Upsized, bringing it closer to the full-size Ford. Four-door (with rear suicide doors) introduced, taking 32 per cent of production, replacing slow-selling convertible. Landau 2-door outsold regular model two-to-one. Poor rear visibility thanks to the large pillars, and no longer sporty: Thunderbird became just another big American cruiser focused on a very smooth ride. The 429 replaced the 428 in 1968, with some external changes for regulations and cosmetics, including new grille; grille revised again for 1969, when Thunderbirds received new suspension, lowering the cars slightly. Two-doors received stiffer springs and a larger anti-roll bar, improving the handling, though Thunderbird remained behind GM’s personal–luxury cars.

Manufacturing location: Wixom, Michigan, USA

Marque: Ford | Model: Ford Thunderbird | Predecessor: Ford Thunderbird (1964–6) | Successor: Ford Thunderbird (1970–1)