Ford THUNDERBIRD
700 registered in New Zealand · 1954–2005 · 93% from United States
The Ford THUNDERBIRD is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 700 registered across model years 1954 to 2005. It averages 13.4 L/100km in fuel consumption . Most are petrol-powered saloons with a 6.4L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the THUNDERBIRD.
Fuel Types
Ford THUNDERBIRD fuel type breakdown: PETROL 100%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Ford THUNDERBIRD vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Ford THUNDERBIRD fleet age profile: 1965: 77, 1966: 64, 1967: 10, 1977: 10, 2002: 13.
Drivetrain
Engine Size
Ford THUNDERBIRD engine sizes: 6.4L 10%, 6.4L 5%, 5.8L 3%, 6.4L 3%, 3.9L 3%.
Imported From
Ford THUNDERBIRD imported from: United States 93%, Not Known 5%, Canada 0%, Other 0%, New Zealand 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Ford THUNDERBIRD vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Ford THUNDERBIRD NZ arrival timeline: 2022: 14, 2023: 10, 2024: 7, 2025: 10, 2026: 1.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Ford THUNDERBIRD.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Ford THUNDERBIRD regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 172, CHRISTCHURCH: 54, TAURANGA: 31, WAIMAKARIRI: 25, WHANGAREI: 20.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Ford THUNDERBIRD are there in New Zealand?
There are 700 Ford THUNDERBIRD vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1954 to 2005.
How much does it cost to run a Ford THUNDERBIRD?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Ford THUNDERBIRD averages 13.4 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $105 per week or $5,483 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Ford THUNDERBIRD?
The Ford THUNDERBIRD is primarily classified as a saloon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: convertible, sports car, hatchback. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Ford THUNDERBIRD cars imported or NZ-new?
93% of Ford THUNDERBIRD vehicles in New Zealand originated from United States. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.