FORD THUNDERBIRD (1976-79)

2-door 6-seater coupé/hardtop coupé.

Eighth generation T-Bird, the first 'downsizing' in  this range, now on 114ins wheelbase, shortest since 1966. No less than 1800lbs lighter than before, with smaller V8 engines on existing Ford 'intermediate' platform shared with Ford Torino/LTDII and other current models. Much more fuel efficient and cheaper than before - sold like hot cakes, averaging 300,00 a year, five times that of previous generation. No 6.6-litre engine for final year, most being 'standard' 5-litre models.