Ford to Kill Thunderbird After 2005 Model Year

The T-Bird makes use of the Lincoln LS's top-line 280-horsepower 3.9-litre V8 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission; manual

The 50th anniversary of Ford Thunderbird was celebrated on November 5, 2004, in Dearborn, Michigan, as the limited edition 2005 model was surrounded by classic T-Birds at the Wixom Assembly Plant. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

mode is standard on the LS and option with the more expensive Thunderbird.

The T-Bird started life in August of 2001 as a 2002 model, therefore ending production after only four years would be considered short compared to Ford's normal product lifecycle.

The original Thunderbird, which started life in 1954 as a 1955 model, had a relatively short lifespan as well, lasting only four years before being replaced by an altogether different vehicle wearing the same badge. While the T-Bird continued on in various iterations until it ceased production in 1997, other than a short hiatus between the late '70s and early '80s, there is no plan to offer a 2006 model year Thunderbird.

To the current model's credit, it enjoyed a brisk sales spree during its honeymoon, in which dealers in some areas enjoyed

The current generation Thunderbird was initially quite popular among automotive journalists, even winning Motor Trend's Car of the Year award. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

up to five digit premiums over the list MSRP. It was also popular among automotive journalists, even winning Motor Trend's Car of the Year award.

The initial interest quickly subsided, even faster than the normal retro trend that sees the popularity of such models, such as the Volkswagen New Beetle, waning after the first two or so years. Chrysler's PT Cruiser has enjoyed slightly better long-term sales due to its inexpensive price and overall functionality, and the MINI Cooper is expected to also maintain consistently high sales due to a focus on performance and a strong cult-like following.