The retro trend that emerged during the 1990s and early 2000s didn’t bypass Ford, with the company releasing a new Thunderbird with styling that harked back to the badge’s very beginnings. Initially selling in reasonable numbers, the tally dropped with each successive year until the company pulled the plug after only four years. This 2004 example is a genuine survivor with 21,000 miles showing on its odometer. It is unmolested, presents well, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting it. You will find the T-Bird listed here on Craigslist in Florence, New Jersey, with an asking price of $17,500.

The retro trend that emerged during the 1990s brought us such vehicles as the Plymouth Prowler and, in 2001, the Mini. Ford decided to join the party in 2002 by launching an Eleventh Generation Thunderbird range. Although very modern below the surface, the exterior possessed styling cues drawn from the badge’s early days. Sadly, many people couldn’t warm to the appearance, and sales tallies were far lower than the company anticipated. The first owner ordered this T-Bird in 2004, and while there were two available shades of Red from which to choose, they selected the more conservative and classy Merlot. They teamed this color with a Light Sand power top, splashing an additional $2,500 beyond the sticker price for a color-matched factory hardtop. The car’s overall presentation is quite good for its age, with the close-up shots revealing only a few tiny chips and marks. The panels are straight, and the Ford’s garage-kept history has protected it from rust. Both tops are in good order, the glass is clear, and the 17″ chrome cast aluminum wheels are free from physical damage.

Ford included some minor interior design features in its latest offering that harked back to the badge’s glory days. These included bright trim on the dash and an overall feeling of luxury. Like the First Generation, this model was produced strictly as a two-seat Convertible. Standard equipment included climate-control air conditioning, power windows, power locks, heated power seats, power mirrors, cruise control, a power tilt/telescopic wheel, and a high-end stereo system with a six-disc CD stacker. The seats are trimmed in Light Sand leather to match the soft-top, exhibiting little wear and only slight creasing that comes with age. The remaining interior trim looks excellent, and there is no evidence of damage, abuse, or deterioration. There are no aftermarket additions, and the level of equipment provided by Ford ensures that life aboard this Thunderbird would be pretty comfortable.

Ford owned Jaguar when it developed the Thunderbird, meaning that it wasn’t surprising when it chose an engine from that marque to power its latest offering. The 3.9-liter “AJ35” V8 produces a very respectable 280hp and 286 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to the road via a five-speed automatic transmission. The company also focused on safety, equipping the Thunderbird with four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and electronic traction control. That combination made tackling city traffic a doddle, while open-road cruising is an effortless affair. The seller states that this Thunderbird has a genuine 21,000 miles showing on its odometer, although it is unclear whether they hold verifying evidence. They supply no information regarding the mechanical health, although their emphasis on the vehicle’s excellent condition suggests the news should be positive.

Some automotive gambles pay dividends, while others fail to meet the creator’s expectations. Ford launched the Eleventh Generation Thunderbird in 2002, selling 31,368 cars during the first year. From there, the figures declined rapidly, with only 12,757 buyers handing over their cash to take one home in 2004. When the tally failed to reach five figures in 2005, Ford announced the end of production. This 2004 example is a low-mileage survivor with an asking price that appears competitive in the current market. It is worth noting that values have fluctuated during the last year, so whether it represents a sound long-term investment is impossible to say. However, if your goal is to slip behind the wheel of a Convertible that combines old-world charm with modern conveniences, it might be worth more than a passing glance.