The Ford Thunderbird, including the convertible, emerged in 1955 as a response to Chevrolet's Corvette. It was designed as a personal luxury car, not a sports car.

A little-known fact: Ford initially planned to call it the "Fairlane," but thankfully changed it.

The Thunderbird evolved through many generations, changing in size and style.

Its production ceased in 1997, then was revived in 2002, and discontinued again in 2005. There is no direct successor.