We were given the opportunity of trying both the 5-litre V8 engined Thunderbird and the 2.3-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged model, fitted with a manual five-speed gearbox.

Well, we’re pleased to report that the situation has changed, at least so far as Ford’s ’83 Thunderbird models are concerned.

Over the years we have been assured on many occasions that American road cars were gradually developing a European appeal, but up until now we’ve seldom found that to be the case. So when Ford’s PR spokesman Jackie Stewart invited as to sample the latest Thunderbird at the Company’s Dearborn test track near Detroit, we were intrigued to take up this opportunity. Many readers might find it a little strange to see an item about a product of the American Ford empire within the pages of Motor Sport, for although the 5-litre V8 Thunderbird has formed the basis of a successful NASCAR “stock racer” on the other side of the Atlantic, few people would expect the basic production car to appeal to European tastes.

Ford thunderbird 83