In response, the 1983 ninth-generation Thunderbird received an extensive redesign of the exterior (though sharing nearly identical chassis underpinnings), as Ford sought to remarket the model line. While better-handling and more fuel-efficient than its Torino-based predecessor, the eighth-generation Thunderbird was poorly received by critics and buyers, leading to a collapse in sales (combined 1980–1982 production outsold 1979 production by only 4,000 cars). For a second generation, the Thunderbird remained the Ford counterpart of the Mercury Cougar XR7 while the Cougar again served as a complete line of mid-sized cars in various body styles, the Thunderbird was offered solely as a two-door personal luxury coupe. Introduced to commemorate the 25th year of the Thunderbird, the eighth generation was substantially downsized, transitioning further into the mid-size segment. The eighth generation of the Ford Thunderbird is a personal luxury coupe that was manufactured and marketed by Ford from the 1980 to 1982 model years.

86 thunderbird 5.0