The Forgotten Luxury: The 2003 Ford Thunderbird 007 Edition

In an era where infotainment systems have become a necessary evil, it's refreshing to look back at a time when cars were all about style and performance. The 2003 Ford Thunderbird 007 Edition is a prime example of this, with its sleek retro design and powerful V8 engine.

The Thunderbird was a personal luxury coupe that first appeared in the 1950s, and it's hard to believe that it took 40 years for Ford to bring back the iconic model. The 2003 edition was a special one, commemorating the second appearance of the Thunderbird in a James Bond film, specifically the movie 'Die Another Day'. Only 700 examples were produced, with each car painted in a unique Coral color and featuring a white leather interior with sports seats.

The interior was decked out with all the bells and whistles, including a numbered plaque hidden in the glove box. The exterior featured flashy chrome wheels and 007 badging on the center stack. This limited edition Thunderbird was a true collector's item, and it's no wonder that only 694 were sold to consumers at a price of $43,995.

Under the hood, the Thunderbird packed a punch with its 3.9-liter Jaguar-developed V8 engine producing 280 horsepower. Paired with a five-speed automatic transmission from the Ford Ranger, this car was built for grand touring. And speaking of touring, the optional hardtop featured an opera window, giving passengers a glimpse of the open road.

The Thunderbird's design was a throwback to its 1950s heyday, with a retro-styled body that harked back to the classic era of American muscle cars. The car's platform was based on Ford's international DEW platform, which also underpinned the Jaguar S-Type and Lincoln LS.

In an era where crossovers and SUVs dominate the market, it's refreshing to look back at a time when cars were all about style and performance. The 2003 Ford Thunderbird 007 Edition is a true collector's item, with its sleek design and powerful engine making it a standout on any road. Whether you're a James Bond fan or simply a car enthusiast, this limited edition Thunderbird is sure to impress.

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