When did they stop making Ford Thunderbirds?
Ford stopped producing Thunderbirds after the 2005 model year; the traditional, full-size Thunderbird line ended in 1997, and the nameplate was briefly revived from 2002 to 2005 before being discontinued again. This article traces the timeline and the factors behind the stoppage.
A quick timeline of Thunderbird production
Below is a concise snapshot of the major production milestones for the Thunderbird nameplate, focusing on when production halted and when a revival occurred.
- 1997: End of the traditional Thunderbird production (the long-running full-size model).
- 2002–2005: Thunderbird returned as a retro-styled two-seat roadster.
- 2005: Final Thunderbird model year; the nameplate has not been revived since.
These milestones illustrate the pattern: a long historical run, a mid-1990s ending, a brief early-2000s revival, and a permanent discontinuation after 2005.
Context and factors behind the discontinuation
Ford retired the traditional Thunderbird in 1997 as part of a shift away from two-seat personal coupes toward more utilitarian family cars and SUVs. The 2002 revival sought to capitalize on retro styling and nostalgia, but it lasted only four years, as market demand for two-seat sports cars remained limited and production costs were high. Since 2005, Ford has not brought back the Thunderbird, despite occasional concept cars and fan interest.
Current status and what it means today
As of 2025, the Ford Thunderbird remains discontinued. Ford has focused its modern lineup on SUVs, trucks, and other crossovers, with no announced plans to reintroduce the Thunderbird nameplate in production.
Summary
The Ford Thunderbird stopped production in two waves: the traditional, full-size Thunderbird ended in 1997, and the nameplate was briefly revived from 2002 to 2005 before being permanently discontinued. There has been no new Thunderbird since 2005, and Ford shows no current plans to revive the model. The Thunderbirds’ legacy endures in automotive history as a symbol of mid-century personal-luxury design, while the modern era moved on to different priorities for the brand.
Is there a 2025 Ford Thunderbird?
The front end is aggressive yet elegant giving the Thunderbird a timeless yet contemporary. Look moving to the side the Thunderbird's long lowslung profile is is unmistakable.
How much is a 64 Thunderbird worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $13,000 for a 1964 Ford Thunderbird in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1964 Ford Thunderbird at auction over the last three years was $126,500.
Why did Ford discontinue the Thunderbird?
Few reasons. First, the personal coupe market was really drying up in the 90's. Second, the last gen tbird was considered to be too big, too heavy and too soft, and Ford leadership was upset about it. Third, they've grown a stigma over the years as a redneck car.
Why did Ford stop the Thunderbird?
With sales dropping significantly after its first model year, Ford discontinued the eleventh-generation Thunderbird after the 2005 model year; the final vehicle was manufactured on July 1, 2005. As of current production, Ford has not returned the model line to sale in any form.
