Ford's historic Thunderbird nameplate returns to the future-product vault

Ford Motor Company will put the legendary Thunderbird nameplate back into the company's future-product vault after production for this model year ends in July. The Ford Thunderbird first went on sale October 22, 1954, marking the birth of a new legend that would grow with each generation. During five decades, Thunderbird went through several design changes with coupes, sedans, convertibles, hardtops, mid-size and large-size configurations. It went on hiatus after the 1997 model year. Thunderbird returned in 2001 as a retro-styled roadster to serve a similar role to its 1955 forebear - create excitement for the Ford brand. His article traces the history of the legend.

"We promised all along that this Thunderbird would have a limited production run, and we're being true to our word," explains Steve Lyons, Ford Division president. "Thunderbird was a terrific image builder for the Ford brand showroom at a time when we needed it. Now, we're in the midst of a major product onslaught, including more news on the Mustang at this month's New York Auto Show."

This year, Ford Thunderbird celebrates its golden anniversary with a 50th anniversary limited-edition 2005 model. As the anniversary coincides with the end of the current generation, the special-edition models are expected to become collector's items.

"There's a place for a dream car in any car company," says Lyons. "At Ford, we're fortunate to have several dream cars, including the new Ford GT and Ford Mustang. For now, the Thunderbird nameplate will be placed on our shelf. But we'll keep it polished for future use."

The Ford Thunderbird nameplate will live on in the hearts of enthusiasts, in the garages of collectors and in the memories of millions.

It started in Paris nearly a half-century ago. Since then, the flight of the Thunderbird has included classic two-seaters, cherished roadsters, convertibles and four-door models, as well as exciting hardtops and sedans -- more than 4 million of them.

There has been the "square" look, the "projectile" look, the jet aircraft look and the luxury look. Yet, through the years, through the many changes and near extinction, Thunderbird's uniqueness, individuality and engineering innovations have been retained.

The First Thunderbird

Two men, Louis D. Crusoe and George Walker, were primarily responsible for the birth of the Thunderbird. Both were devoted to the automobile and its constant development and refinement.

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