1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1997 Ford Thunderbird
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1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird ▼
- Price Range: $600 - $1,900
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Ride
- Antilock brakes (optional)
- Acceleration (SC and V8)
- Handling/roadholding
Cons
- Acceleration (V6)
- Entry/exit
- Fuel economy (SC and V8)
Vehicle Highlights
Thunderbird was restyled in 1989 and became trimmer in its overall dimensions but rides on a wheelbase nine inches longer than before. Also new at that time was a fully independent suspension. Mercury's Cougar is similar, but with different appearance touches. Base and LX editions had a 3.8-liter V6 and 4-speed overdrive automatic. Performance fans had a particularly tempting choice: a supercharged, intercooled variant of the V6 that churned out 210 horsepower in the Super Coupe (SC), which featured dual exhausts, 16-inch tires, and 4-wheel antilock disc brakes. Four-wheel disc brakes came standard on the SC, but were optional on the LX.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Ford Thunderbird LX 4.6-liter Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 49 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Ford Thunderbird:
For 1991, a V8 option was back: a 5.0-liter engine rated at 200 horsepower.
1992 Ford Thunderbird:
Sport models had a standard V8, making four models in all: base, Sport, LX, and SC. LX/Sport front ends got the SC's faired air intakes and aero skirting. All models wore new full-width taillights.
1993 Ford Thunderbird:
Base and Sport models were gone, leaving only the LX and Super Coupe. Thunderbirds still had no airbag at all.
1994 Ford Thunderbird:
An overhead-cam 4.6-liter V8 arrived for '94, along with driver- and passenger-side airbags and optional traction control. T-Birds featured new front/rear fascias, a new hood, and headlights. Motorized seatbelts were gone.
1995 Ford Thunderbird:
Variable-assist power steering no longer was standard on the LX, except with V8 power.
1996 Ford Thunderbird:
No more Super Coupes went to dealerships, but Thunderbird continued in LX guise. Extensive styling changes included new fascias, clear-lens headlights, and a new grille with larger opening. Color-keyed body moldings were integrated with door panels.
1997 Ford Thunderbird:
Revisions to the dash and interior layout were the major change for '97. The simplified instrument cluster featured new gauges with orange needles, while warning lights replaced the oil pressure gauge and ammeter. The center console was redesigned to provide dual cupholders, a coin holder, and larger storage bin. Ford also made four-wheel disc brakes standard. At the end of the model year, Ford announced the end of Thunderbird production.
Our road test for the 1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Substantially heavier than prior T-Birds, the stylish but portly '90s edition is roomier inside. Three can fit into the rear, but head room is limited and the center occupant straddles a wide driveline tunnel. Controls are clear and easy to reach, analog gauges easy to read on a cockpit-style dash. The optional electronic dashboard isn't so easy. As with most coupes of this size, the big, heavy doors are a chore to open and demand a lot of room. Though smooth-running and capable, the base V6 sets no acceleration records. The Super Coupe, on the other hand, is one swift cruiser. Unfortunately, the 5-speed manual gearshift gets balky, making automatic the better choice for an SC. A V8 engine is the sensible choice for those who like performance, but don't need the all-out muscle of the Super Coupe. The V8 delivers a smooth power flow, not neck-snapping takeoffs. A V8 Thunderbird reached 60 mph in 8.8 seconds. The 4.6-liter V6 is quieter, smoother than the older 5.0-liter, but yields unimpressive throttle response in the 30-50-mph range. Fuel economy is tempting only on base (V6) models. A late LX V8 got 18.2 mpg (just 15 in urban commuting). An automatic-transmission SC averaged 15.2 mpg. All Thunderbirds have competent road manners. Base and LX models handle well and ride comfortably, but do tend to float and bound over dips as speed rises. SCs hug the road tightly, but heavy weight keeps even that Thunderbird from feeling truly agile, and the Super Coupe suffers from an overly firm ride. Even in its softest mode, the SC's standard adjustable suspension is on the harsh side. The Sport model (available only briefly) gives you V8 power and a tauter ride than the base car. Thunderbirds can suffer poor traction on wet/slick pavement even with traction control.
Value for the Money
Standard Thunderbirds are pretty and pleasant compared to front-drive GM coupes, such as the Chevrolet Monte Carlo and Pontiac Grand Prix. You get a solid feel, quiet ride, and modern appearance.
Standard Thunderbirds are pretty and pleasant compared to front-drive GM coupes, such as the Chevrolet Monte Carlo and Pontiac Grand Prix. You get a solid feel, quiet ride, and modern appearance.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Ford Thunderbird LX 4.6-liter Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 49 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Ford Thunderbird includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Ford Thunderbird .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
Water drips onto the floor when the air conditioner is operated and may be due to over a half-dozen potential leak sources, including seals and bad seams in the evaporator case or heater core. (1990-96)
Alternator belt:
The drive belt tensioner pulley or idler pulley bearings are apt to make a squealing noise when the engine is started in cold weather. (1993-96)
Automatic transmission:
The automatic transmission is notorious for shuddering or vibrating under light acceleration or when shifting between third and fourth gear. It requires that the transmission fluid (including fluid in the torque converter) be changed and that only Mercon fluid be used. (1994)
Automatic transmission:
The transmission may slip and the engine may flare when shifting into fourth gear. This can often be traced to a bad TR/MLP sensor. (1994-95)
Blower motor:
Squeaking or chirping blower motors are the result of defective brush holders. (1993-94)
Coolant leak:
The intake manifold on 4.6L V8 engines is prone to breakage resulting in coolant loss and possible overheating. The manufacturer is reimbursing owners who paid for fixes up to $735 and extending the warranty for others (1996-97))
Heater core:
Installing a restrictor in the heater inlet hose may repair heater cores leaks. (1990-97)
Oil leak:
The oil filter balloons and leaks because the oil pump relief valve sticks. Higher than recommended viscosity oils cause wear to the valve bore. (1992-94)
Vehicle noise:
A chattering noise that can be felt coming from the rear during tight turns after highway driving is caused by a lack of friction modifier or over-shimming of the clutch packs in the Traction-Lok differential. (1990-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $365 |
| Alternator | $445 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $810 |
| Brakes | $235 |
| Exhaust System | $275 |
| Radiator | $405 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $285 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $340 |
| Universal Joints | $265 |
Our price chart for this generation Ford Thunderbird details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1997 | |||
| Thunderbird | $2,100-2,700 | $1,500-1,900 | $400-500 |
| 1996 | |||
| Thunderbird | $1,800-2,300 | $1,200-1,600 | $300 |
| 1995 | |||
| Super Coupe | $2,000-2,500 | $1,400-1,800 | $300-400 |
| Thunderbird | $1,600-2,000 | $1,100-1,300 | $200-300 |
| 1994 | |||
| Super Coupe | $1,800-2,300 | $1,200-1,600 | $300 |
| Thunderbird | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| 1993 | |||
| Super Coupe | $1,600-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $200-300 |
| Thunderbird | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 1992 | |||
| Super Coupe | $1,500-1,900 | $1,000-1,200 | $200 |
| Thunderbird | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 1991 | |||
| Super Coupe | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| Thunderbird | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| 1990 | |||
| Super Coupe | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Thunderbird | $1,000-1,300 | $600-800 | $100 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Ford Thunderbird include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 113.0 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 200.3 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.7 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 52.5 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3536 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 15.1 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.1 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.5 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.5 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.8 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Base engine for 1990 Thunderbirds was a 3.8-liter V6 that developed 140 horsepower. The supercharged, intercooled V6 engine in the Super Coupe could mate with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or 4-speed overdrive automatic transmission, but all other T-Birds were automatic-only. For 1994, a two-valve-per-cylinder version of Ford's overhead-cam 4.6-liter V8 replaced the 5.0-liter. In 1996, the supercharged engine was gone, the substantially revised V6 gained 5 horsepower, and engines adopted platinum-tipped plugs.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V6 | 3.8 / 232 | 140-145 | 215 | 4-speed automatic: 19/26 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Supercharged ohv V6 | 3.8 / 232 | 210-230 | 315-330 | 5-speed manual: 18/26 4-speed automatic: 18/24 |
5-speed manual: 15.8 4-speed automatic: 15.2 |
| ohc V8 | 4.6 / 281 | 203-205 | 265-280 | 5-speed manual: 17/25 4-speed automatic: 17/24 |
5-speed manual: 18.2 4-speed automatic: 15.1 |
| ohv V8 | 5.0 / 302 | 200 | 275 | 4-speed automatic: 17/24 | 4-speed automatic: 15.1 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Ford Thunderbird include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1997 Thunderbird |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1997 Ford Thunderbird directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990-91:
Nuts that hold windshield-wiper motor may loosen or come off.
1990-93:
Ignition switch could suffer short circuit, which can cause overheating, smoke, and possibly fire in steering-column area.
1991:
Park-rod assembly of automatic overdrive transmission may contain a cam with inadequate surface hardness, which could lead to disengagement or nonengagement when lever is placed in "Park" position.
1992-93 cars in specified states:
Movement of fuel lines can result in leakage.
1992-93 w/foglights:
Headlights may go out for various intervals as a result of circuit breaker opening.
1996 w/semiautomatic temperature-control:
Under certain conditions, blower does not operate as intended.
1996:
Driver's door, when closed only to secondary latched position, may not sustain the specified 1000-pound transverse load.
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