Ford Thunderbird 2002
In 2002, Ford introduced the new T-bird with retro-inspired styling reminiscent of the 1955-1957 models. It featured a two-seat configuration, a 3.9-liter V8 in the front, and a stylish interior. The car looked great, and Ford got the retro feel of a classic Thunderbird right. The initial response from buyers and the motoring press was fantastic. But the hype was over soon as sales were disappointing (via Car and Driver).
The new Thunderbird wasn’t the performance car people seemed to believe. It was comfortable, heavy, and not very fast despite having 280 HP. Ford realized that it wasn’t real competition for the Mercedes SL. Instead, it was just another underperforming and expensive model in the market segment, which is essentially gone today.