HANDLING
Ford likes to talk about the T-Bird's having "relaxed
sportiness." Put the emphasis on relaxed. The T-Bird is based
on the same mechanical platform as corporate siblings Lincoln
LS and Jaguar S-Type. But the T-Bird suspension is adjusted to
be softer, so it handles twisting curves less well than either
of those estimable sport sedans. Pushing the Thunderbird
through switchback curves produces serious lateral roll and a
rush of desire to hit the brakes. Though the automatic
transmission gives you an option to downshift manually, it is
not nearly as smooth as the Lincoln shifter. In fact, the
T-Bird's handling can't measure up to any BMW -- and that
includes the big X5 sport utility which I had driven down the
same road a few months earlier. But if you really wanted a
sports car, you would buy a BMW Z3 or a Honda S2000 (see
Best cars for 2001).
The boulevard cruisers who buy the Thunderbird will likely find
it offers all the handling they need.
RIDE AND COMFORT
The Thunderbird is born to cruise at speed on a smooth
interstate, where it gives a comfortable ride. But if you hit
a stretch of ribbed or pitted road, you will feel it. It won't
be confused with a Lexus for smoothing out the rough spots --
or for delivering a quiet ride. But the T-Bird isn't bad by
noisy convertible standards. The driver and passenger have
plenty of leg room. The seats are comfortable but don't offer
the kind of fine-tuning power adjustment you would find on a
Mercedes or Lexus in the same price range. The T-Bird should
be comfy for a long drive as long as you don't need to take
much luggage. And when you get there, you'll make a
good-looking entrance.
NEXT: Safety »»
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