This Brand New 2002 Ford Thunderbird Is Hidden

Perhaps one of the lowest-mileage Ford Thunderbirds in America is up for auction at Bring A Trailer, which could be an enticing purchase option if you’re nostalgic for the early 2000s. Potential bidders should remember, however, that just because a car has barely been driven doesn’t necessarily mean it’s in perfect condition or free of maintenance issues.

READ: Someone spent $45,000 to make Ford’s 2003 Thunderbird concept easier to drive

This particular Thunderbird was purchased brand new by the seller’s father-in-law in 2002 and has apparently been sitting in storage ever since. After his death in 2023, his widow inherited it. According to the seller, the original owner collected several Ford Mustangs, F-Series trucks, and, of course, this Thunderbird over the years, many of which were brand new and had never been driven.

Well kept garage queen

This car has only 20 actual miles (32 km), essentially has delivery miles, and still has the original window sticker, clean Carfax report, and original Georgia title – by all accounts, it’s Both are true garage queens. While the documents tell a story, the car’s 22-year history is a reminder that low mileage can also come with its own set of risks, as long periods of inactivity can lead to issues like drying out seals, aging gaskets and damage to other components. Not designed to sit idle for years.

The current seller of the car mentioned in the review, “This car was started regularly for the first ~15 years until the owner got sick. Then it was untouched which is why the fuel system had to be checked before we sold it Reason.” He also added, “The hard top was never removed; therefore, the soft top was never tested.”

Vintage look with modern style

The car comes in a bright Torch Red hue that contrasts nicely with the 17-inch chrome wheels. The Thunderbird looked a bit strange when it debuted, and it still does to this day, but it certainly stood out from any modern two-door. It currently comes with the original removable hardtop and is also available with a power-operated black soft top in case the next buyer wants to tan while driving. However, since the soft top has not been used in over twenty years, potential buyers will definitely want to inspect it thoroughly before trying to use it.

Considering how well-preserved the exterior is, it’s obvious that this car has been carefully stored throughout its life. The interior looks immaculate, too, with the midnight black leather on the power-adjustable seats showing little signs of wear. Every part is original, including the cruise control, in-dash CD changer and AM/FM stereo.

Powering this generation of Thunderbirds is Ford’s 3.9-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine with 252 hp and 267 lb-ft (362 Nm) of torque. The car had its oil and coolant changed and a new fuel pump installed in preparation for sale.

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While low-mileage cars are generally preferred, buying a car that’s 22 years old and has essentially never been driven comes with its own risks. Engines are designed to be used and parts like gaskets will deteriorate over time, especially in cars that have been sitting around for many years. While this Thunderbird will certainly be serviced and driven more frequently by its next buyer, it will likely continue to live out the rest of its life as a garage queen.

Go to With trailer If you want to bid.

Photos with trailer