1978 Ford Thunderbird

2dr Coupe

8-cyl. 302cid/134hp 2bbl

#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good

$8,200*

+3.8%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair

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1977-1979 Ford Thunderbird stats
Highest sale
$29,925
Lowest sale
$1,320
Most recent sale
$17,050
Sales
108

Photos

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1979 Ford Thunderbird Coupe
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**Figure based on a stock 1978 Ford Thunderbird valued at $8,200 with OH rates with $100/300K liability/UM/UIM limits. Actual costs vary depending on the coverage selected, vehicle condition, state and other factors. Hagerty determines final risk acceptance.

Model overview

Model description

The 1977 Ford Thunderbird was a drastic departure from the previous generation. Rather than continuing to grow, the Thunderbird, like much of the domestic product line, shrunk in size as a response to growing concerns about fuel costs. The car was nearly 1,000 pounds lighter than the 1976 model, and rode on a wheelbase that was 6 inches shorter. In addition to size, the 1977 Thunderbird’s price was reduced as well, now with a $5,000 base price. The car was still Ford’s entrant in the “personal luxury car” market, however, despite the smaller package.

The Thunderbird’s new look was similar in spirit to earlier models, only now it featured concealed headlights, a squarer grille, and a glassier cabin, with opera windows. The Town Landau roof featured a chrome accent bar that served as an extension of the B-pillar, and the C-pillar was extremely thin. The car’s 302-cid, 130-hp V-8 was standard and 149- and 161-hp versions of the 351-cid V-8 were optional. Regardless of engine choice, shifting was managed by a three-speed automatic transmission. Buyers responded well to the redesign and new price, and more Thunderbirds were sold in 1977 than ever before.

The 1978 model year was mostly unchanged, though a Diamond Jubilee decor package was available for nearly $4,700 more than a standard ’Bird, and a 400-cid,166-hp V-8 became available. In 1979, the Diamond Jubilee was replaced by the Heritage Edition, and a lighter 351-cid V-8 debuted.

The sales success of the 1977 to 1979 Ford Thunderbird led to another redesign for the 1980 year, again introducing a smaller version of the car. Today, this generation of Thunderbird is exemplary of late 1970s design. Cars are relatively inexpensive, so buyers can afford to seek out well-optioned, low-mileage, and scrupulously cared-for examples. Perhaps surprisingly, many of those still exist.

Vehicle specifications

  • Shipping Weight4082 lbs
  • Vehicle Length215.5 in
  • Wheelbase - Inches114 in

Equipment

  • StandardOptional
  • TransmissionAutomatic Transmission
  • BrakesPower Front Disc Brakes
  • Power SteeringYes
  • TiresWhite Sidewall Tires
  • EntertainmentAMAM/FM
  • Air ConditioningYes
  • Manual Cruise ControlSpeed Control
  • WindowsPower Windows
  • Comfort Equipment Heater/Defroster
  • SeatsBench SeatBucket Seats
  • Roof DescriptionT-Roof

Equipment

Standard

  • TransmissionAutomatic Transmission
  • BrakesPower Front Disc Brakes
  • Power SteeringYes
  • EntertainmentAM
  • WindowsPower Windows
  • Comfort Equipment Heater/Defroster
  • SeatsBench Seat

Optional

  • TiresWhite Sidewall Tires
  • EntertainmentAM/FM
  • Air ConditioningYes
  • Manual Cruise ControlSpeed Control
  • SeatsBucket Seats
  • Roof DescriptionT-Roof
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Common Questions

The value of a 1978 Ford Thunderbird can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $8,200 for a 1978 Ford Thunderbird in good condition with average spec.

The highest selling price of a 1978 Ford Thunderbird at auction over the last three years was $18,700. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.

The lowest selling price of a 1978 Ford Thunderbird at auction over the last three years was $6,600. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.

In the last three years there have been 7 1978 Ford Thunderbirds sold at public auction.

The most recent auction sale of a 1978 Ford Thunderbird was $10,500 on June 05, 2024 by Bring a Trailer.

Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.

Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.

Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.

The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.

All prices shown here are based on various data sources, as detailed in About Our Prices. The Hagerty Price Guide is for informational purposes only and is not intended as financial advice. More information on how forecast models are calculated can be found on Forecasted Values page. For additional information and a complete description of benefits, visit hagerty.com/legal. Purchase of insurance not required for membership in HDC. Hagerty, Hagerty Valuation Tools & Hagerty Drivers Club are registered trademarks of The Hagerty Group LLC, ©2025 The Hagerty Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Hagerty Group, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty, Inc.