1979 Ford Thunderbird

2dr Coupe

8-cyl. 302cid/133hp 2bbl

#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good

$5,500*

+22.2%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Value GraphJan 2024
Past sales
Preview a graph of past sales or become a Hagerty Drivers Club member for unlimited access to all past sales, including detailed condition descriptions, equipment lists, images and market commentary.
insurance

Protect your 1979 Ford Thunderbird from the unexpected.

Better coverage built for classics at a price you can afford. Online quotes are fast and easy
More 1979 Ford Thunderbird values

Model overview

Model description

The 1977 Ford Thunderbird was a drastic departure from the previous generation. Rather than continuing to grow, the Thunderbird, like much of the domestic product line, shrunk in size as a response to growing concerns about fuel costs. The car was nearly 1,000 pounds lighter than the 1976 model, and rode on a wheelbase that was 6 inches shorter. In addition to size, the 1977 Thunderbird’s price was reduced as well, now with a $5,000 base price. The car was still Ford’s entrant in the “personal luxury car” market, however, despite the smaller package.

The Thunderbird’s new look was similar in spirit to earlier models, only now it featured concealed headlights, a squarer grille, and a glassier cabin, with opera windows. The Town Landau roof featured a chrome accent bar that served as an extension of the B-pillar, and the C-pillar was extremely thin. The car’s 302-cid, 130-hp V-8 was standard and 149- and 161-hp versions of the 351-cid V-8 were optional. Regardless of engine choice, shifting was managed by a three-speed automatic transmission. Buyers responded well to the redesign and new price, and more Thunderbirds were sold in 1977 than ever before.

The 1978 model year was mostly unchanged, though a Diamond Jubilee decor package was available for nearly $4,700 more than a standard ’Bird, and a 400-cid,166-hp V-8 became available. In 1979, the Diamond Jubilee was replaced by the Heritage Edition, and a lighter 351-cid V-8 debuted.

The sales success of the 1977 to 1979 Ford Thunderbird led to another redesign for the 1980 year, again introducing a smaller version of the car. Today, this generation of Thunderbird is exemplary of late 1970s design. Cars are relatively inexpensive, so buyers can afford to seek out well-optioned, low-mileage, and scrupulously cared-for examples. Perhaps surprisingly, many of those still exist.

Equipment

Standard Equipment
AM
Automatic Transmission
Bench Seat
Heater/Defroster
Power Front Disc Brakes
Power Steering
Power Windows
Optional Equipment
AM/FM
Air Conditioning
Bucket Seats
Speed Control
T-Roof
White Sidewall Tires
Additional Info
Shipping Weight: 4082 lbs
Vehicle Length: 215.5 in
Wheelbase - Inches: 114 in
Find more values
Search for prices of other cars, trucks, vans and motorcycles
Classic car