Anybody want a '99 Thunderbird prototype?

"Jim Spanfeller" (awesomeaustinv) 01/22/2020 at 11:27 • Filed to: found for sale

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This 1999 Ford Thunderbird prototype is being auctioned off by Barret t-Jackson. It is one of only three prototypes and is the only one that was ever public. It differs from the production models in that it has a one inch longer wheelbase and a more steeply raked windshield. It’s also got a Lincoln V8 and rear wheel drive, for what it’s worth. Not sure what it’ll sell for, but whatever the case I think it’s kinda interesting.

Stapleface-Now Hyphenated! > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 11:34

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I wonder, if it’s a prototype, can the new owner register it and drive it on the road, or is it only drive able for “off road” use?

winterlegacy, here 'till the end > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 11:34

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> It’s also got a Lincoln V8 and rear wheel drive, for what it’s worth.

“You won’t do a burnout with it, will you?”
“Absolutely not. Scout’s honor.”
“You’re such a bad liar.”

If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 11:35

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The production model also had a Lincoln V8 and RWD. Unlike the production version, this one has fake interior b uttons and no windows.

https://www.vintagemotorssarasota.com/listing/ford-thunderbird-prototypeconcept/

jimz > Stapleface-Now Hyphenated! 01/22/2020 at 11:37

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nope.  it’s a show piece only.  probably doesn’t even have a VIN. 

Jim Spanfeller > Stapleface-Now Hyphenated! 01/22/2020 at 11:39

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Not sure. Perhaps you could register it as a custom car? 

Jim Spanfeller > If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent 01/22/2020 at 11:41

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Ah. Somehow I’d gotten it in my mind that the production models were powered by Jaguar engines...

Textured Soy Protein > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 11:50

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The Jaguar S-Type was a reskinned Lincoln LS. The platform was also used in the Thunderbird, and then reworked to replace the independent rear suspension with a live ax le in the S197 Mustang.

benn454 > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 11:53

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 Man, the production models were so disappointing. A real shame since it's not a bad looking car.

Jim Spanfeller > benn454 01/22/2020 at 12:14

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Well, this prototype has a fiberglass body and no windows, so it probably weighs less than the production models, making it possibly a bit faster...

jimz > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 12:17

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they were.  The 3.9 variant was unique to Ford and Lincoln vehicles, but it was still a Jaguar AJ engine. 

Galileo Humpkins (aka MC Clap Yo Handz) > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 12:18

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I would rather shower with a bear.

Jim Spanfeller > Galileo Humpkins (aka MC Clap Yo Handz) 01/22/2020 at 12:24

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lol

If only EssExTee could be so grossly incandescent > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 12:29

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It's a Lincoln version of a Jag engine

fintail > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 12:32

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Very boomer, but I low key don’t mind these, or at least tolerate them.

ranwhenparked > Textured Soy Protein 01/22/2020 at 13:18

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And was also shared with the 1st gen Jaguar XF

Nauraushaun > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 16:26

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Ugh so no roof? Legit barchetta weeee

Jim Spanfeller > Nauraushaun 01/22/2020 at 16:31

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Well, it does have a removable hardtop. But no windows...

Nauraushaun > Jim Spanfeller 01/22/2020 at 16:41

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Ah. Without windows let’s be honest - you’re never using that hardtop. It’s a fair weather car.

I love that idea.

pip bip - choose Corrour > Jim Spanfeller 01/23/2020 at 04:33

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no doubt can’t be registered