2004 Ford Thunderbird Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 2004 Ford Thundered was similar in many ways to the model first re-introduced in 2002, but with a couple of changes. Improved cam...
The 2004 Ford Thundered was similar in many ways to the model first re-introduced in 2002, but with a couple of changes. Improved cam timing helped fuel economy as well as performance.
A new 3.9-liter V8 rated at 280 horsepower puts ample power in the engine, making for a thrilling ride with the soft-top down.
A two-seater, the Thunderbird is no longer the sports car/muscle car/family car of previous generations, but a sharp-looking toy for a new era with a retro look to impress fans of any time.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2004 Ford Thunderbird absolutely loved its stylish design, comfortable ride, and smooth performance. Many appreciated the powerful V8 engine and the car's fun driving dynamics, whether the top was up or down. However, some drivers noted that the trunk space was quite limited and the hardtop could be noisy."
Viewed the car and their were a number of imperfections, however minor, that made me reconsider the purchase of this car. Aside from the cosmetic problems, I didn't pursue the drive worthy considerations.
April 13, 2025After more than four months of serious searching for a 2004 or 2005 Ford Retro Bird, we finally bought an all black one with both tops, just 29,700 miles, for the reduced price of $#15,850! It was the lowest mileage of any we looked at, but also the least expensive! We drove it to our auto mechanic, who did a thorough workup on it, and pronounced it in very good shape -- a few minor things, but nothing serious. Only negative is it has dozens of little rock chips on the hood and some on the front fenders, which will have too be sanded out and repainted. But at that price, we can afford to have this done. The car has far quicker acceleration than our old 57 Bird and with tight steering, drives almost like a sports car. Plus, it is very easy to get in and out of, and has very comfotable, adjustable seats, with lots of leg room, and good sightlines. Lots of bells and whistles, many of which I am still discovering. Taking the hardtop off for the first time was a bit of a hassle, so I may just leave it off and use the very tight, good looking soft top, which goes up and down at the touch of a button -- very nice! And easy, unlike trying to fold the soft top in our old 57 Bird. About my only complaint as of now, having just had it for just two weeks, is that the trunk is really, really small, compared with our old classic T-Bird, especially so with the tonneau cover in there. So well just have to pack lighter on our next longer road trip, to which we are looking forward, as this is a fun, fun car to drive!
May 9, 2023Car is a smooth ride. Well equipped and appointed. Lots of power in the 3.9L V-8 engine. It surprised me on its performance, pick up, and road gripping. Lastly, it has a super sport shifting manual side that is s joy to run the gears.
August 27, 2023What owners say
Viewed the car and their were a number of imperfections, however minor, that made me reconsider the purchase of this car. Aside from the cosmetic problems, I didn't pursue the drive worthy considerations.
April 13, 2025After more than four months of serious searching for a 2004 or 2005 Ford Retro Bird, we finally bought an all black one with both tops, just 29,700 miles, for the reduced price of $#15,850! It was the lowest mileage of any we looked at, but also the least expensive! We drove it to our auto mechanic, who did a thorough workup on it, and pronounced it in very good shape -- a few minor things, but nothing serious. Only negative is it has dozens of little rock chips on the hood and some on the front fenders, which will have too be sanded out and repainted. But at that price, we can afford to have this done. The car has far quicker acceleration than our old 57 Bird and with tight steering, drives almost like a sports car. Plus, it is very easy to get in and out of, and has very comfotable, adjustable seats, with lots of leg room, and good sightlines. Lots of bells and whistles, many of which I am still discovering. Taking the hardtop off for the first time was a bit of a hassle, so I may just leave it off and use the very tight, good looking soft top, which goes up and down at the touch of a button -- very nice! And easy, unlike trying to fold the soft top in our old 57 Bird. About my only complaint as of now, having just had it for just two weeks, is that the trunk is really, really small, compared with our old classic T-Bird, especially so with the tonneau cover in there. So well just have to pack lighter on our next longer road trip, to which we are looking forward, as this is a fun, fun car to drive!
May 9, 2023Car is a smooth ride. Well equipped and appointed. Lots of power in the 3.9L V-8 engine. It surprised me on its performance, pick up, and road gripping. Lastly, it has a super sport shifting manual side that is s joy to run the gears.
August 27, 2023I wanted the late model Thunderbird for the engine features, overall the car was a very good value. It is not a drag racer, it is very fun to drive, top up or top down. It will merge and pass thru traffic very easily at freeway speeds. It is a gentlemens sports car, Im not impressing anyone, Im just having fun.
June 27, 2020Looks great, handles great. Modern day version of the classic T-Bird of the 1950's.V-8 gives excellent acceleration, braking and handling. Front seats very comfortable. Heated. Vehicle has been very reliable with limited mechanical issues. Monterey Mist Green metal flake paint with Ash top is unique.
February 21, 2012I had this car in seafoam green with a silver gray interior with the nice thunderbird rims. I had so many compliments when I had this car. It was so much fun to drive and it had lots of power. For an 8 cylinder it was great on gasoline. There were not too many of these cars made, so I hardly ever saw one like mine. Great convertible for a shorter person, a taller person's head would go over the windsheild when the convertible top is down. Hope to have another one of these again. Highly recommend this car, it's such a unique and fun car. It had a great sound system as well.
January 8, 2012This car is a classic in every respect. It drives like a dream, has lots of pep with the V8 eng. The only small complaint I have is that the hardtop makes noise, but not so much that the radio doesnt drown it out. Takes Premium gas.
August 26, 2021My wife and I are proud owners of a 2004 Vintage Mint Green Thunderbird. We are empty nesters and have derived great joy from cruising around Michigan in this car! It is a real head turner...
February 5, 2008Love this car! It is so much fun to drive with the top down, and they are holding the value pretty well! It is nice looking with the Hard Top on, but much better as a convertible. Love this car
February 19, 2010I think it has more pick up and better ride than my Cadillac CTS.
February 4, 2022Trims & specs
Base MSRP $43,390 | Seating 2 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $38,040 | Seating 2 |
Engine 3.9L 280 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 6.9 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $38,040 | Seating 2 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$38,040 - $43,390
Current avg. market price
$14,113
Trending up by 4.3% this month
May 2026 - November 2026
