The glossy vintage Ford Thunderbird first rolled out in 1955 in direct response to Chevrolet's iconic sports car, the Corvette. After eleven generations and over 4 million sold, the company ceased production in 1997 when large two-door coupe sales waned. Betting on old faithful, Ford reintroduced the Thunderbird in 2002 as a two-seater with a retro twist, but after three years of sluggish sales it discontinued the once popular vehicle that outsold the Corvette in its first year more than 20 to 1.

(photograph taken on Main Street and Bike Alley in Carrboro)