Ford Thunderbird

 

Even if they were nothing more than a Torino in a nicer suit, the 1977-1979 'Bird is a handsome looking car. Ford seems to have a styling thing for the tiara, and they do a commendably good job.

1971 Ford LTD

2009 Ford Fiesta

Now wait a minute, you're saying to yourself. There isn't anything out of the ordinary about this car, it's just a Ford Fiesta. 

Take a closer look at the license plates, however. Those are Michigan Manufacturers plates, and when you combine that with the date of the photos (09/09), it becomes a bit more interesting.

What you're seeing here is one of the 50 or so Ford Fiesta cars that were sent out as loaners to artsy, social media types to churn up lots of pre-intro hype as part of the Fiesta Movement campaign. 

My keen eyes spotted this Fiesta in Kingston NY. Most people didn't give it a second glance, but in 2009, there were only a handful on the road. This particular Fiesta belonged to Fiesta "Agents" Zach S. and Paul H. part of an "indie" band based in Upstate NY. 

Notice in the pictures the black dots on the rear door and above the rear arch? Not quite sure what they were there for, but probably to demo one of the sticker packages Ford offers for the Fiesta. On top of it all, this was a five-speed. All in all, pretty cool to see one of these Euro-spec Fiestas. A little late on my part getting it posted to a "social media" venue...