Introduced to commemorate the 25th year of the Thunderbird, the eighth generation was substantially downsized, transitioning further into the mid-size segment.
In response, the 1983 ninth-generation Thunderbird received an extensive redesign of the exterior (though sharing nearly identical chassis underpinnings), as Ford sought to remarket the model line.
Though reduced in size, the downsized Thunderbird saw increased competition, marketed against the Chrysler Cordoba, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum and the quartet of GM A-body coupes (Buick Regal, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, and Pontiac Grand Prix).
In contrast to the previous generation (which served as a mid-cycle restyling and rebranding of the Ford Elite), the eighth-generation Thunderbird was the first version of the model line to integrate downsizing as part of its design process.
[6] As an option, the Thunderbird was offered with heavy-duty "handling" suspension, a limited-slip rear-axle, and aluminum wheels equipped with Michelin TRX tires.
[4] Technically considered a delete option, Ford introduced an 88 hp (66 kW) 3.3 L inline-6 (shared with the Fairmont and Granada), paired with a 3-speed automatic; for 1982, the 3.3 L engine became standard.
The eighth-generation Thunderbird was produced solely as a two-door coupe, branded as the Ford counterpart of the Mercury Cougar XR7.
Hoping to repeat the success of the 1977–1979 generation, Ford designers adopted many design elements from the previous generation directly onto the body of the 1980 Thunderbird, including its hidden headlights, rectangular radiator grille, taillights (revised to wrap into the fenders) and opera windows.
Dependent on trim, several rooflines were offered for the Thunderbird; a full or partial vinyl roof was fitted to all examples.
Coinciding with downsizing of passenger automobiles, NASCAR reduced the wheelbase of Winston Cup cars from 115 to 110 inches.
[16] To ensure chassis consistency, NASCAR abandoned its previous practice of three-year model eligibility, requiring teams to adapt to current-production vehicles.
[16] In response to the rule change, Ford debuted the eighth-generation Thunderbird (while also eligible, no drivers fielded a Mercury Cougar XR7).